Ohio Supreme Court decisions play a critical role in determining whether Ohio consumers, businesses and independent agents will have a stable, predictable and competitive insurance marketplace in which to do business.
The Supreme Court is comprised of seven justices that serve as the final arbiter of legal questions concerning the constitutionality and validity of our state laws, rules and legal system.
The Past
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In the 1990s, the Ohio Supreme Court was considered an activist court, one that “legislated from the bench.” Four of the seven justices consistently voted to overturn pro-business policy decisions and tort reforms.
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The 1999 ruling in the Scott-Pontzer case regarding UM/UIM coverage was just one of the Supreme Court’s anti-business rulings.
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In the early 2000s, Ohio’s business community worked together to positively change the Supreme Court’s philosophical balance from activism to one of consistency and restraint.
The Present
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The Ohio Supreme Court is now mostly comprised of justices who practice judicial restraint, focusing their legal opinions on the constitutionality of Ohio’s laws and deferring policy matters to the legislature.
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As a result, Ohio has one of the most competitive, stable and affordable insurance marketplaces in the country.
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Nationally, Ohio homeowners premiums ranked ninth lowest and auto premiums ranked 14th lowest, according to recent reports from the Ohio Department of Insurance and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.
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“Ohioans are paying a combined $540 less for their auto and homeowners insurance compared to the national average.” –Lt. Gov. and ODI Director Mary Taylor
The Future
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Two of the seven justices are up for election in November and the philosophical balance of the Supreme Court is in jeopardy.
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Will Ohio become like some states that have unpredictable legal environments, activist courts and high insurance premiums or maintain our competitive business and insurance climate? Your vote counts.
Help Ohio Stay Competitive!
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Contact OIA’s Advocacy team with questions at (800) 555-1742
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Vote!
