Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse says SB 328 invites out-of-state suits in Illinois

Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse (CALA) announced on X that Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed SB 328, a bill expanding venue rules to allow out-of-state plaintiffs to file lawsuits in Illinois courts. Critics argue the law will increase frivolous litigation, raise costs, and drive jobs out of state.

Governor J.B. Pritzker’s signing of SB 328 changes how venue rules operate in Illinois civil courts. According to The Center Square, the law makes it easier for out-of-state plaintiffs to file lawsuits in Illinois even when the events giving rise to the case occurred elsewhere. Critics contend that this weakens reforms designed to limit forum shopping, effectively turning Illinois into a preferred destination for mass tort and class-action filings.

Illinois’ reputation as a difficult legal environment is long established. The American Tort Reform Foundation’s 2023–2024 Judicial Hellholes report placed Cook, Madison, and St. Clair counties among the worst jurisdictions for lawsuit abuse, citing high rates of mass tort claims and venue shopping. Observers argue that SB 328 reinforces this perception, signaling to trial lawyers nationwide that Illinois courts are welcoming venues for out-of-state litigation.

Business leaders and trade groups warn that the law could have negative consequences for Illinois’ economy. The Illinois Chamber of Commerce has argued that expanding venue eligibility increases litigation risks for employers, leading to higher liability insurance costs and discouraging investment in the state. They caution that such measures make Illinois less competitive compared to neighboring states that have stricter venue rules, ultimately jeopardizing jobs and economic growth.

Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse is a grassroots organization dedicated to civil justice reform. According to its official website, CALA works to educate the public about the social and economic costs of lawsuit abuse while advocating for policies that promote fairness and accountability in courts. The organization frequently issues public statements, conducts campaigns, and partners with community stakeholders to reduce frivolous litigation and improve legal transparency.