Madison, WI – On Friday, Governor Tony Evers vetoed Assembly Bill 225, introduced by Representative Cindi Duchow (R–Delafield) and Senator Dan Feyen (R–Fond du Lac). The bill aimed to prevent third parties, such as insurance companies, from influencing the selection of venue in civil lawsuits. It addressed the growing practice of “venue shopping,” in which plaintiffs seek out courts perceived as more favorable despite having no geographic connection to the case.
“This bill would help keep insurance settlements and payouts fair,” said Rep. Duchow. “Premiums are already rising, partly due to inflation, but also because of increasingly large payouts from insurance companies involved in lawsuits.”
“I have full sympathy for victims,” she added. “They are going through difficult circumstances, and I want them to receive the compensation they deserve. However, it is unreasonable for trial lawyers to pursue cases in counties that have no real connection to the incident.”
