The bill would limit confidential settlements in wrongful-death lawsuits involving defective products and environmental hazards. Petersen was out of town and missed the rally. On Wednesday, though, he said business leaders in Mesa were pushing him to vote no. If the bill is resurrected, it would face an equally tough road in the House given the staunch opposition of more than 23 business organizations including the Arizona Chamber of Commerce. Opponents worry about increasing lawsuits and clogging courts, as well as revealing trade secrets.
Backers say the public has a right to know if a company's products are dangerous.
Several state agencies experienced problems with Firestone tires beginning in 1992, but weren't aware of nationwide problems until last year, Bundgaard said. Another targeted vote is Sen. Jay Blanchard, D-Gilbert. Lobbyists for the Arizona Trial Lawyers Association said Blanchard told them he was a supporter of the bill, and were taken aback when he voted no. Blanchard denied pledging his support, and said lawmakers are moving too fast for such a widespread change to the law. But this is a fundamental change.