Former U.S. Sen. Thompson Opposes Tennessee Governor’s Damages Cap

Former U.S. Sen. Fred Thompson says legislation that seeks to limit monetary damages from lawsuits in Tennessee is unnecessary and that a jury should decide how much is awarded and not state government.

The proposal by Republican Gov. Bill Haslam would place a $750,000 cap on non-economic damages, such as pain and emotional suffering, and punitive damages would be limited to $500,000.

Thompson, a Tennessee Republican, told the House Judiciary Subcommittee that the proposal is “extremely far-reaching.”

Haslam has said the legislation is necessary because it is too attractive for lawyers to sue businesses in Tennessee and that could scare off potential businesses.

However, Thompson cited statistics that show the state continues to be a top draw for businesses.