Letter to the Editor
April 20, 2007

The Oklahoma Legislature has placed on the governor’s desk Senate Bill 507, commonly know as the “tort reform” bill. After a thorough review of the bill, the Oklahoma Bar Association has called for Gov. Henry to veto the bill. The bill contains several provisions that infringe upon personal rights guaranteed by our state and federal constitutions.

While proponents of this bill claim the need for some reform, this bill is not about reform. There is no hard evidence that the problems this bill claims to fix even exist. Even if that were not the case, this bill gives distinct advantages in the judicial system to certain powerful and well-financed parties. The judicial system must be fair and impartial for everyone. Improving the administration of justice is part of the mission of the Oklahoma Bar Association. The lawyers of Oklahoma are not opposed to reform to ensure that everyone gets fair and impartial treatment in the judicial system. However, to give one side in an adversarial system distinct advantages is not the way to correct any deficiencies that might exist.

The facts and the evidence do not justify replacing individual jury verdicts with one-size-fits-all damages for injured parties. We need to make sure that regardless of political affiliation, social status or personal wealth, everyone gets their day in court before a jury of his or her peers. That is what the founding fathers provided for us. We should not tolerate less. To experiment with a lesser system to appease any special interest group is contrary to the fair administration of justice. That is why Gov. Henry should veto this bill.

Stephen Beam, President
Oklahoma Bar Association
P.O. Box 31
Weatherford, OK 73096
(580) 772-2900
sbeam@ionet.net