Tim Scott: “I first want to point out that we obviously do not have enough time to debate the issue. As we have seen, Members do not…”

“I first want to point out that we obviously do not have enough time to debate the issue. As we have seen, Members do not even have time to yield to each other as is customarily. Second, I wanted to point out since the Girl Scouts have come up, the information I have is that the conference data base uncovered that only one punitive damage award was ever awarded against Little League, Boy Scouts of America, or Girl Scouts of America. This punitive damage award stemming from a sexual molestation claim was subsequently vacated by an appellate court. Mr. Chairman, the lawsuits we are talking about are designed to empower consumers who are ripped off, maimed or injured, but with the right to go to court every consumer is somebody. And if a corporation thinks about ripping somebody off or recklessly exposing them to serious injuries, because they want to make a little bit more profit, that corporation has to remember that every consumer has the right to be treated fairly. And they cannot calculate whether or not they can make a little bit more money by exposing someone to serious injuries or danger. With the changes made earlier this week, Mr. Chairman, we make it harder for individuals to bring suit. Even if they bring a suit and win, if they come in under the amount offered in settlement, a corporation is rewarded by that legislation, but the plaintiff, having had the nerve to challenge a corporate behavior, may end up losing their homes.”