The Texas Asbestos Consumers Coalition is working to achieve meaningful asbestos lawsuit reform that will move injured people to the “front of the line” at the courthouse and protect the rights of others to seek compensation later if they become sick. The coalition is a special project of the Texas Civil Justice League.

Since 1988, more asbestos-related lawsuits have been filed in Texas than in any other state.

Personal injury trial lawyers pack state court dockets with lawsuits filed on behalf of people, recruited through advertising and mobile screenings, who do not and may never have an asbestos-related illness. A January 2005 Tillinghast study revealed asbestos claims as the single largest contributor to rising national tort costs.

Governor Rick Perry highlighted asbestos lawsuit reform as a priority issue during his State of the State address delivered January 26, 2005. “Let’s end Texas’s status as the home of frivolous asbestos lawsuits,” Perry said.

Trial lawyers reap huge profits from an unfair system. People who are ill and in need of financial assistance can’t get to the “front of the line” at the courthouse. They wait behind thousands of plaintiffs who aren’t even sick.

In addition to legitimate asbestos victims, all Texans suffer as frivolous asbestos lawsuits bankrupt companies and cost jobs.

Overview The Facts The Crisis The Cost Reform Contact News Track the Legislation