Lawyers in the SC Senate have made it more attractive to sue the government.

That may cost local governments and school districts 20% more in insurance premiums.

And that could result in local tax increases. “The trial lawyers were

“The trial lawyers were pushing it,” Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey told the Chronicle.

“9 of us voted no.

“The estimate is that it will increase insurance premiums by 20%. That’s a pretty good hit to local government.

“The House may stop it, though.”

Like other states and the federal government, South Carolina’s tort claims act allows the state to waive its immunity from lawsuits.

This might occur in cases where a state or other government employee harms someone.

Senators approved raising the maximum limit state or local governments would pay as a result of a tortious act from:

• $300,000 to $500,000 per person

• $600,000 to $1 million per occurrence regardless of the number of persons injured.

“The increased limits are good for people who are harmed by negligent acts of government employees,” Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey said, but it will increase premiums paid by the state, local governments, school districts, most hospitals and charities.

The House will now consider the bill.