Church group's opposition stuns advocates of 'tort reform' in Arkansas

LITTLE ROCK — So-called tort reform has been an easy sell in states controlled by Republicans, and backers of a lawsuit-limiting proposal on the ballot in Arkansas this fall expected little trouble winning passage until they ran into a surprising obstacle from a reliable conservative ally.

A Christian group has begun rallying churches and abortion opponents against the measure, saying that limiting damage awards in lawsuits sets an arbitrary value on human life, contrary to anti-abortion beliefs, and conflicts with biblical principles of justice and helping the poor.

Proponents of the measure are stunned by the opposition and worried that it could stir dissension among conservatives who must work together on numerous issues.

"The biggest problem is not the damage" to the tort reform proposal, said Republican Rep. Bob Ballinger, a sponsor of that measure. "The biggest hurdle is the damage to the pro-life cause."

Read more: http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2018/aug/18/church-groups-opposition-stuns-advocates-tort-refo/