OSCC has joined with other organizations, calling on the Legislature to extend liability protections to businesses affected by COVID-19.
The letter asks that during a Special Session, Oregon Legislators should immediately pass legislation that provides:
- Protection for following State and Federal Guidance – entities who follow guidance from the government about how they can safely operate should be protected from unwarranted lawsuits;
- Recognition of the COVID-19 situation – entities should not be liable for circumstances beyond their control including limited PPE, limited testing and workforce shortages due to the crisis;
- Limited Duration for Liability Protection – only for acts or omissions during the COVID-19 Emergency (effective with the first order: EO 20-03 March 8, 2020)
- Limited Scope of Liability Protection – allow for gross negligence, reckless or willful misconduct claims to move forward (not looking to protect bad actors!)
You can view the letter here.
As businesses start to reopen, they are implementing safety measures in alignment with State public health guidelines and recommendations. Many employers are worried that even though they are following public health guidelines, an employee or customer will contract coronavirus and sue them, claiming that they got sick because of circumstances beyond the control of the business. Our local businesses shouldn’t live in fear of opportunistic attorneys and crippling litigation during these uncertain times.
If you are you worried about coronavirus liability-despite the fact that your business has done its best to adhere to Governor Brown’s public health guidelines, the Governor and legislators need to hear from you today! Tell your story to help inform this important policy decision.
(Click Links Below)
Send your message to the Governor and legislators today
Download the template letter to send from your Chamber