FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
As published in the January 15 edition of the The Los Angeles Times
January 15, 2007
Re "Mayor clamping down on settlements," Jan. 11
Los Angeles taxpayers should be outraged that the city had to spend $37 million last year on lawsuits. For too long, Los Angeles has led the pack of U.S. cities that burden their residents with the costs of lawsuit abuse.
Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa's common-sense plan is a small step that could go a long way in preventing excessive lawsuits against the city. For the good of Los Angeles taxpayers and city employees, the city should be doing everything it can to identify liabilities and avoid lawsuits. More cities, and states, should follow this example.
PETER BYLSMA
Executive Director
Los Angeles Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse
CALA is a nonprofit, grass roots, public education organization dedicated to serving as a watchdog over the legal system and those who would seek to abuse it for undeserved gain. For information, visit www.losangelescala.org.
