Perry Signs 'Loser Pays' Bill Into Law
AUSTIN (AP) - Some Houston-area Republicans are set to join Gov. Rick Perry for the ceremonial signing of a new law intended to limit frivolous lawsuits.
Perry will tout the so-called "loser pays" bill Wednesday in Houston. The measure, which goes into effect Sept. 1, will levy fees on unsuccessful plaintiffs and allowing meritless suits to be dismissed early in the process.
Perry made the measure a top priority for the Legislature, saying Texas needs to crack down on junk lawsuits.
Some plaintiffs who sue and lose will be required to pay the court costs and attorney fees of those they are suing.
Trial lawyer groups and the AFL-CIO opposed the measure, arguing it would give corporations the upper hand in lawsuits and prevent individuals with legitimate claims from filing suit.
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