State Sen. John Carey was right to praise the Ohio General Assembly for its efforts to improve Ohio’s business climate through initiatives like tort reform (“Excessive regulations stifles state’s growth,” Aug. 6).
In fact, Ohio is setting an example that other states would be wise to follow.
As Sen. Carey pointed out, Ohio’s solid tort rules have earned it “saint” status in the Pacific Research Institute’s 2008 U.S. Tort Liability Index, a study I co-authored.
Here’s one such rule: Ohio shields drug manufacturers from punitive damages if the drug in question was approved by the FDA.
Holding innovative businesses like drug companies liable even after they meet all government standards is unfair and reduces funds for research into the next life-saving drugs.
Ohio’s tort system is among the most conducive to economic growth in the nation. Other states should follow its lead in reforming their own tort laws.
LAWRENCE J. McQUILLAN
Pacific Research Institute
San Francisco, Calif.
