State Sen. Larry Mumper was right to praise the Ohio General Assembly for its efforts to bolster economic growth through initiatives such as tort reform (“Legislature seeks to cut the cost of doing business in Ohio,” July 29). In fact, Ohio is setting an example that other states would be wise to follow.
Ohio’s solid tort rules have earned it “saint” status in the Pacific Research Institute’s U.S. Tort Liability Index: 2008, a study I co-authored. Here’s one such rule: Ohio shields drug manufacturers from punitive damages if the drug in question was approved by the FDA. Holding innovative businesses like drug firms liable even after they meet all government standards is unfair and reduces funds for research into the next life-saving drugs.
Ohio’s tort system is among the most conducive to economic growth in the nation. Other states should follow its lead in reforming their own tort laws.
Lawrence J. McQuillan, Ph.D.
Director, Business and Economic Studies
Pacific Research Institute
San Francisco, Calif.
Nothing contained in this blog is to be construed as necessarily reflecting the views of the Pacific Research Institute or as an attempt to thwart or aid the passage of any legislation.
Tort reform: Ohio sets good example
Lawrence J. McQuillan
State Sen. Larry Mumper was right to praise the Ohio General Assembly for its efforts to bolster economic growth through initiatives such as tort reform (“Legislature seeks to cut the cost of doing business in Ohio,” July 29). In fact, Ohio is setting an example that other states would be wise to follow.
Ohio’s solid tort rules have earned it “saint” status in the Pacific Research Institute’s U.S. Tort Liability Index: 2008, a study I co-authored. Here’s one such rule: Ohio shields drug manufacturers from punitive damages if the drug in question was approved by the FDA. Holding innovative businesses like drug firms liable even after they meet all government standards is unfair and reduces funds for research into the next life-saving drugs.
Ohio’s tort system is among the most conducive to economic growth in the nation. Other states should follow its lead in reforming their own tort laws.
Lawrence J. McQuillan, Ph.D.
Director, Business and Economic Studies
Pacific Research Institute
San Francisco, Calif.
Nothing contained in this blog is to be construed as necessarily reflecting the views of the Pacific Research Institute or as an attempt to thwart or aid the passage of any legislation.