Statement from Democratic Leader Charlie Laster on Announcement of Tort Reform Compromise

“At first glance the agreement announced today looks very similar to the compromise bill from 2007 crafted by Governor Henry.

“We are pleased negotiators were able to take the crux of the 2007 proposal to include in the provisions of this agreement.

“After the bipartisan defeat of Senator Coffee’s far-reaching political and punitive attorney fee referendum bill he predicted this day would never come.

“Senator Coffee was wrong.

“Today’s announcement of an agreement shows when the politics of fear and retaliation are left at the door, parties can come to the table and have an open and honest debate about the best way to move our state forward.”