Atlanta – Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine issued the following statement: 

Today’s Georgia Supreme Court decision overturning the cap on non-economic damages is a serious setback to Georgia’s medical providers, small business owners, and most importantly consumers.

The tort reform legislation passed by the 2005 Georgia General Assembly brought much needed certainty and stability to our medical malpractice insurance marketplace.  The Court’s decision is harmful to the progress we have seen in that marketplace.

While I respect the Court, I fear this ruling will result in increased medical malpractice claims, causing higher rates for doctors, and making Georgia less attractive to medical professionals.