Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse of Central Texas

October 26, 2009

AUSTIN, Texas—Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse (CALA) of Central Texas will hold its annual fundraiser at the Intercontinental Stephen F. Austin Thursday, Oct. 29, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. with special guests Lieutenant Governor David Dewhurst and State Rep. Todd Hunter.

“Governor Dewhurst and Representative Hunter are strong supporters of a civil justice system based on common-sense and fairness,” said Clay McPhail, owner of El Arroyo restaurant and the group’s chairman.  “We are delighted to have them join us for this event and pleased to recognize them for their strong stand in the most recent session against any efforts to roll back reforms or create new ways to sue in Texas.”

Serving as honorary hosts of the event are Governor Rick Perry, U.S. Senator John Cornyn, Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson, Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples as well a host of local members of Congress and the Texas House and Senate.  Distinguished and well-respected business leaders, physicians and a Texas football coach are supporting the event.

“Stopping lawsuit abuse and reining in questionable lawsuits have clearly benefited our state: strengthening our health care system, bolstering our business climate, and creating and retaining jobs,” said Stephanie Gibson, the group’s executive director.  “Governor Dewhurst and Rep. Hunter understand the importance of these reforms, and they’ve shown that they know this progress is worth protecting.”

In the most recent regular session of the Texas Legislature, more than 900 bills that would have rolled back existing reforms or created new ways to sue in Texas were introduced. 

“Personal injury lawyers are working hard to take Texas back to the bad old days, when abusive lawsuits threatened jobs and health care for Texas families,” Gibson said.  “Now more than ever, it’s critical that Texans remains aware of the cost and consequences of lawsuit abuse and the dire impact of any efforts to roll back reforms in Texas or create new ways to sue.”

Gibson noted that the group’s annual fundraising reception is an essential part of their work.

“The funds we raise from our local supporters allow us to engage in activities that shine a spotlight on lingering abusive legal practices in Texas and their impact on all of us, illustrate the benefits of a fair and reasonable civil justice system, promote the importance of voting for judges who interpret and not make the law, and encourage jury service.”