October 22, 2020 – Advocacy News
Businesses following safety protocols would be granted immunity from COVID-19 related lawsuits brought by workers and customers under a series of bills signed by Governor Whitmer today. These bills were championed by the Michigan Chamber and the centerpiece of our COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Agenda.
The Michigan Senate and House approved the five bills last week after days of intense bipartisan negotiations. The main bill, House Bill 6030, would grant employers, individuals, nonprofits, child care and academic facilities and the medical community immunity from personal injury lawsuits and other tort actions if the person or entity is in compliance with federal, state, and local statutes, rules, regulations, executive orders and agency orders related to COVID-19 in effect at the time of the conduct or risk that allegedly caused harm. This legislation is good news for entities that are committed to following safety protocols and allows them to proceed with confidence that they will not be the target of an unwarranted lawsuit brought by personal injury lawyers seeking to capitalize on the pandemic.
Two other bills in the package, House Bills 6031 and 6101, would make similar changes to the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Act.
The final bill in the package, House Bill 6032, would codify the Governor’s now nullified Executive Order prohibiting discharge, discipline or retaliation against employees who stay home because they test positive, display the principal symptoms or have had close contact with an individual who tests positive or displays the principal symptoms.
This legislation is a great example of what happens when all sides come together to resolve a controversial issue. While there were many lawmakers and staff involved in these legislative negotiations, special thanks to Representatives Albert, Brann and Filler for sponsoring this important legislation and getting it off the ground, Speaker Chatfield and Senate Majority Leader Shirkey for making it a priority, and to Senator Adam Hollier, Senate Minority Leader Ananich and the Governor’s staff for their help in bringing all sides together to get a bill across the finish line.
Press Release issued by Michigan Chamber: PR – COVID Business Immunity Bills
Please contact Wendy Block if you have any questions at wblock@michamber.com.