Texas Business Groups Applaud Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s Focus on Legal Reforms

Members of the Lone Star Economic Alliance (LSEA) converged at the Texas State Capitol on March 11 to advocate for legislative reforms that will restore fairness and transparency to Texas’s legal system

Several key Texas business organizations, including Texans for Lawsuit Reform (TLR), the Texas Trucking Association (TXTA), and the Texas Food and Fuel Association (TFFA), have expressed strong support for Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick’s (R) inclusion of Senate Bill 30 and Senate Bill 39 in his top 40 priority bills for the 89th Texas Legislative Session. The bills aim to address the growing issue of “nuclear verdicts,” large jury awards that are increasingly burdening Texas businesses.

“We applaud Lt. Gov. Patrick for prioritizing Texas businesses and the Texas families they serve by including Senate Bill 30 among his top 40 priority bills for the 2025 Texas Legislative Session,” the groups stated.

The statement highlights that SB 30 will play a critical role in curbing the issue of “nuclear verdicts” — legal awards of $10 million or more. These large verdicts have been increasing the cost of doing business in Texas, which, according to the groups, poses a threat to the state’s economy.

The Lone Star Economic Alliance (LSEA), which is made up of TLR, TXTA, and TFFA, has been advocating for reforms that would reduce insurance costs, ensure fair restitution for legitimate injuries, and provide a legal environment that protects medical providers from litigation abuse. LSEA is focused on creating a system that supports businesses while ensuring fair treatment.

The organizations also expressed their support for Senate Bill 39. The bill seeks to create more uniformity in commercial motor vehicle collision lawsuits, making them more consistent with existing law and ensuring fairness for both plaintiffs and defendants across Texas.

The groups concluded by emphasizing their commitment to working with the Texas Legislature to pass these critical reforms. They believe these changes will help restore fairness to Texas's legal system while ensuring that businesses can continue to create jobs and provide services that are essential to Texas families.

Raeylee Barefield

Raeylee Barefield is a student at the University of Texas at Austin pursuing a degree in Government. She enjoys reading, writing, and cooking in her spare time.