GOVERNOR'S VETO

Pursuant to Article V, Section 6 of the Constitution of Virginia, I veto House Bill 418, establishing the types, certification, rules, and venue for civil actions filed on behalf of multiple persons. 

The legal landscape in Virginia accommodates class actions, with federal courts empowered to adjudicate such cases under the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. Even claims solely rooted in Virginia law can find recourse in federal jurisdictions.

The proposed changes have far-reaching implications by broadening the scope of statutory damages available under the Virginia Consumer Protection Act. The possible statutory damages resulting from these consumer class actions will coerce defendants into settlements to avoid potentially ruinous financial consequences.

The recent expansion of the Court of Appeals within the Commonwealth's legal apparatus must be considered when assessing this proposal. This was the most significant modification to our legal system in decades, and consequently, the court continues to absorb the backlog of dockets, which must be resolved.

Commerce is based on a legal environment that maintains fairness. Excessive tort liabilities and the threat of litigation expenses can force businesses to close their doors, imperiling economic growth. Achieving a balanced legal system means addressing the concerns of both litigants and businesses in tandem. Only through a nuanced approach that acknowledges both excesses and deficiencies can Virginia's economy continue to flourish. 

Accordingly, I veto this bill.