Jim Hart: Protect Veteran-Owned Businesses Against Frivolous Litigation

by | Jan 31, 2025

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Jim Hart

As a member of our retired military community, I have immense empathy for those fighting on the front lines. I also know that many of my fellow United States veterans are currently working on the frontlines 24/7 to try and keep their businesses open every day. The most recent data found that there are over 2.5 million veteran-owned small businessesoperating in the United States. I imagine each and every one of those business owners have felt the stress of keeping their doors open even during times of economic weakness.

I believe that former service members are highly equipped to successfully run a small business. The skills we develop during our service include key characteristics that make for a great business owner, including leadership and perseverance. Ultimately, we know how to handle the unexpected, and we never back down from a challenge. Unfortunately, there are some challenges that pose such an immense financial threat that no amount of resilience could overcome. These days, that threat comes in the form of frivolous litigation.

As the country begins the process of slowly recovering from rapid inflation growth, the fear of small businesses and manufacturers being hit with one of these malicious lawsuits is as prevalent as ever. The threat is so huge that it’s forcing many to hold off on reopening their doors, a decision that could prove devastating for both the business itself, and the economy as a whole.

Traditionally, the cost of fighting a lawsuit is so high that most business owners will settle, a destructive option that could shut them down or open them up to further litigation down the road.

I am not by any means suggesting that a business that breaks protocol or recklessly puts customers or employees in harm’s way should not be liable. I am simply arguing that a business owner who does everything in their power to do things right should not be subject to a lawsuit if an accident occurs.

I applaud Florida’s governor and our legislature for taking steps back in 2023 to change our legal environment from one of the worst in the country for civil litigation to one of the best.  Businesses are feeling better and more confident.  Employment continues to rise, and even insurance companies are beginning to come back into the Florida market, helping to slow down the rapid increase in property insurance.  Competition is always good for lowering prices.

Legislators are coming together soon for the next legislative session.  We need to continue to let the reforms of 2023 work and maybe even look at other reform options for the future.

Jim Hart is Chairman of Floridians for Government Accountability and a retired U.S. Air Force Brigadier General.

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