Governor Scott Walker says changes to Wisconsin’s tort laws will be good for business. With tort reforms relating to prescription drugs, attorney fees and interest rates on damage awards all included in the latest special session on jobs creation, Walker is countering arguments those changes will make it more difficult for people to seek remedy through the courts. “Wisconsin still has very strong protections for consumer protection, particularly protecting older adults and seniors in our communities,” Walker said. “None of that’s affected one way or the other.”
At Madison’s Monona Terrace Tuesday, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce presented Walker with an award for the tort reforms he signed into law earlier this year. “For us, that’s a good sign,” said Walker. “Not only the U.S. Chamber of Commerce taking note of that, but hopefully employers in other parts of the country and around the globe recognize that as one more piece of the changes we’re making, to make it more friendly for job creators here.”
Walker said tort reform will help decrease uncertainty, which he says is one reason why businesses are not comfortable with making new commitments to Wisconsin’s economy. He spoke Tuesday to Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, the state’s biggest business lobby.