WASHINGTON, D.C.-Lisa A. Rickard, president of the U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform (ILR), made the following statement about West Virginia Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin today signing House Bill 2002 into law to reform the state’s joint and several liability laws:

“We commend West Virginia for taking this historic step towards a brighter economic future for its citizens. This law will promote legal fairness by properly allocating fault to all parties involved in a lawsuit.”

“While the state’s civil justice system still faces many challenges, we are encouraged by the legislature’s efforts to enact this significant reform that will benefit all West Virginians. We applaud the House and Senate leadership for their hard work and ongoing commitment to bring more balance to the state’s courts and increased job opportunities to its residents. We commend the governor for signing this landmark law.”

ILR seeks to promote civil justice reform through legislative, political, judicial, and educational activities at the national, state, and local levels.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.

---