New Jersey’s annual “budget break” is the period between the end of March and June when Assembly and Senate Budget Committees meet to finalize the next fiscal year’s budget.  The emphasis on budgetary matters can seemingly push legal reform to the back burner, as the rest of the Legislature remains in recess and voting sessions are suspended.

 

But as Lawsuit Reform Watch noted last year at this time, one of the most appealing aspects about legal reform is that it has the power to spur economic growth while being budget-neutral.  There are some things tort reformers can do:

 

Attend NJCJI’s Membership Luncheon, featuring Assembly Majority Leader Lou GreenwaldAssemblyman Greenwald recently assumed the title of Assembly Majority Leader in the Democratic Caucus.  What legal reform progress does he envision in the near future?  Come hear his thoughts on all things legal reform on Tuesday, April 10th, at noon.  You will be in the company of 60+ business leaders, association presidents, and NJCJI members at this event.  Paul Matey, Deputy Chief Counsel to Governor Christie, will also deliver remarks.  There is no cost to attend, but registration is required.  Click here to registerDirections to NJ CAR are available here.

 

Take a look at your municipal budget.  How much money is your town or city spending on litigation costs?  It’s probably much higher than you think.  Could some endangered local government service be spared if its litigation tab weren’t so high?   Perhaps it’s worth mentioning at your next town council meeting, especially if a lot of cases are referred to expensive private firms.  You’ll be happy you spoke up when your next property tax bill is due.

 

Follow NJCJI.  In addition to subscribing to our blog feed, we are active on Facebook and Twitter.  And as rumor has it, a Pintrest board may be in the works.  In addition to legislative developments and the latest doctor shortage statistics, we’ll be sure to let you know which New Jersey bar will be the next sued by patrons for ‘making’ them drunk.