WASHINGTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Lisa A. Rickard, president of the U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform (ILR), made the following statement today about the introduction of the “Fairness in Class Action Litigation Act of 2017” (H.R. 985) in the U.S. House of Representatives:

“Class action lawsuits were created to make it easier for plaintiffs to get justice. But today, class actions are rife with abuse, as lawyers are often paid many times the amount paid to all class members combined.

“Further, businesses are forced to pay settlements and legal fees in meritless cases.

“This bill requires that class members get paid first, and that lawyers only get a percentage of what class members actually receive. This will protect businesses, consumers, and investors from abusive lawsuits leading to higher prices, less innovation, and fewer new jobs.

“We commend House Judiciary Chairman Bob Goodlatte for introducing this important legislation, and encourage the Committee to take prompt action on this bill.”

ILR seeks to promote civil justice reform through legislative, political, judicial, and educational activities at the national, state, and local levels.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.