Steven K. De Mers, a commentator on the social media platform X, has expressed that ending punitive damages in California civil courts would be a significant step toward achieving meaningful tort reform.
“How about pulling the fangs on the tort lawyers,” said K De Mers. “Not one Dem is standing this issue. In truth, no one else is either. Eliminate punitive damages, a power civil courts should not have, and you win.”
California lawmakers are increasingly discussing tort reform in the context of auto insurance as rising litigation costs and insurance premiums continue to impact both insurers and drivers. According to Captives & Insure, the state is focusing on reducing excessive verdicts and legal delays, which are perceived as major contributors to insurance rate increases. A 2025 article from Insurance Insider US noted that tort reform is among California’s top legislative priorities aimed at restoring market stability.
Punitive damage awards in civil cases have surged nationally, prompting cautious responses from California courts. The U.S. Chamber’s Institute for Legal Reform reported that the median U.S. punitive award increased from $35 million in 2017 to $87 million in 2022. In California, legal experts at Cotchett, Pitre & McCarthy note that courts typically consider punitive damages exceeding 15–30% of a defendant’s net worth to be excessive.
California’s auto insurance market is showing signs of strain compared to other states, although direct litigation-rate comparisons remain limited. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), California accounted for 11.8% of U.S. personal auto premiums, underscoring its significant role in the national market. CalMatters reported in 2023 that some insurers have paused new policies due to legal and cost pressures, raising concerns over litigation exposure and affordability.
De Mers is a licensed psychologist and former CEO of the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB), where he focused on competency assessment and professional mobility. According to his ASPPB biography, he played a key role in developing the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT), which facilitates telepsychology across state lines. He holds a doctorate from the University of Kentucky and frequently speaks on regulatory issues.
