Bill > SB223

This bill introduces the "Pro People, Pro Business Act", which significantly modifies premises liability law in Georgia by establishing new standards and defenses for property owners and occupiers when third-party criminal conduct occurs on their property. The legislation creates detailed definitions and requirements for when a property owner can be held liable for injuries resulting from criminal actions by third parties, including specific conditions that must be met. To limit liability, property owners must demonstrate that potential criminal conduct was not reasonably foreseeable or that they took reasonable precautions to protect invitees, such as implementing comprehensive security measures like installing security camera systems, providing adequate lighting, maintaining clear signage, using drop safes, and in residential settings, conducting crime prevention assessments and implementing specific safety features like deadbolts and window locks. The bill establishes a rebuttable presumption against liability if these security measures are substantially implemented, and property owners can only be found liable if claimants can provide clear and convincing evidence that the owner failed to take reasonable precautions. The law will become effective on July 1, 2025, and will apply to all causes of action and insurance policies issued on or after that date, providing property owners with clearer legal protections against premises liability claims.

Justice

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/70596