Republic mentions ALEC connection to AZ Lege “tort reform” bill

by David Safier

A Republic article about a "tort reform" bill in the state lege spotlights the fact it "is based on model legislation developed by the conservative American Legislative Exchange Council." Praise to reporter Alia Beard Rau for pointing out the ALEC connection. This, I hope, marks what will be a continuing reporting trend.

I was also pleased with this passage putting a human face on the unrelenting attempts to shield corporations from punitive court settlements large enough to make them think twice about putting consumers in jeopardy.

Such a law [like Al Melvin's proposed bill] could have, for example, protected Subaru from the lawsuit Phoenix resident Ashleigh Justice filed after the roof of her 1992 Legacy caved in during a rollover. She was paralyzed.

"Without the threat of punitive damages, companies wouldn't be afraid of making faulty products," said Justice, 26. "Because Subaru met the standards but didn't do everything that would be necessary for consumer safety, I have to deal with this."

She said without the settlement from her lawsuit, she would have to rely on public assistance and state medical services.

She would likely be living at home with her parents.

Instead, she was able to move into her own home, met her husband and now has a baby.