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Gov. Henry should seize opportunity
PRI in the News
By: John Engler
4.27.2007
The Oklahoman (Oklahoma City, OK), April 27, 2007
The Oklahoma Legislature has passed a bill that would put the state at the forefront of a growing civil justice reform movement - but only if Gov. Brad Henry signs it. As a former governor, I know that a state's legal climate is as critical to attracting business investment and jobs as tax incentives or any other pro-growth initiative. Oklahoma, ranked a low 38th last year on the Tort Liability Index by the Pacific Research Institute, has a chance to challenge higher-ranking Texas, a prime economic competitor. Henry asked for some of these measures in a 2004 news release, calling for "a comprehensive tort reform initiative that will stamp out frivolous lawsuits and prevent abuse to make Oklahoma's civil justice system the 'best in the nation.'" The governor listed 28 "key areas" of reform. Eighteen of those are now on his desk. Despite his advocacy of legal reform, Gov. Henry is now under tremendous pressure to change his mind. A small band of politically influential trial bar millionaires wants him to find any excuse to veto the bill. For the sake of Oklahoma's economy, Gov. Henry would be wise ignore these special interests. Oklahoma's Legislature set an example by calling for the return of common sense to our courts. Oklahoma's governor should seize this opportunity to be a leader in the legal reform movement. John Engler, Washington, D.C.
Engler, former Republican governor of Michigan, is president of the National Association of Manufacturers
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