[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 130 (Thursday, September 25, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1853]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  OHIO CITIZENS AGAINST LAWSUIT ABUSE

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                          HON. PAUL E. GILLMOR

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 25, 1997

  Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge a group of 
Ohioans who have come together to speak out on the issue of lawsuit 
abuse. Because of their ongoing concern, local citizens have 
volunteered their time to organize Ohio Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse 
[OCALA] and to undertake a public awareness campaign about what they 
perceive as the problems of lawsuit abuse.
  Based in Columbus, Ohio Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse focuses their 
efforts in informing and educating Ohio residents about an issue that 
has statewide and national implications for all Americans. The costs of 
lawsuit abuse can include higher costs for consumer products and 
services, higher medical expenses, greater taxes, and fewer jobs due to 
lost business expansion and foregone product development. This is not a 
new concern for many of us in the House of Representatives, but one 
which must be addressed.
  OCALA wants to help prevent unnecessary lawsuits that do more harm 
than good and bring balance, fairness, responsibility, and restraint to 
our court system. OCALA supporters believe that through education, 
there will be change in public understanding, attitudes, and behavior, 
and they have the opportunity to play a vital role in reforming the 
legal system.
  This nonprofit grassroots organization has raised local funds to run 
educational media announcements and provide speakers for other 
organizations and citizens' groups across the State. They hope these 
actions will raise awareness of the lawsuit abuse issue and help 
legislators arrive at fair and equitable legislative solutions.
  Gov. George Voinovich has declared September 22-27 as Lawsuit Abuse 
Awareness Week throughout the State of Ohio. I want to commend all the 
individuals who are involved in Ohio Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse for 
their dedication and commitment. They are helping elected Federal and 
State officials address serious issues. I commend their work on behalf 
of our State.

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