Parson expands special legislative session to include COVID-19 liability

(From Gov. Mike Parson)

Today, Governor Mike Parson expanded his call to special session to include a new bill regarding COVID-19 liability.

The proposed legislation provides liability protection relating to a declared state of emergency for health care providers, manufacturers, businesses, schools, churches, and nonprofit organizations, among others.

“Since the start of COVID-19, our health care providers have gone above and beyond to respond to COVID-19 and provide exceptional care in an unprecedented and rapidly changing environment,” Governor Parson said. “Many other organizations across the state have also been instrumental in our response efforts, including manufacturers, businesses, churches, and schools, just to name a few.”

Following the first identified case of COVID-19 in Missouri on March 7, 2020, Governor Parson signed an Executive Order on March 13 declaring a state of emergency. Since that time, Missouri’s hospitals and health care providers have altered practices and operations accordingly to respond and provide care to COVID-19 patients.

Similarly, manufacturers, businesses, and many other entities across the state have modified operations, provided equipment and supplies, and remained open to ensure continued access to basic goods and services for Missouri citizens.

“None of these groups should be penalized for their efforts to respond to a declared state of emergency. They must be able to continue operating and serving the public without risk of unnecessary and frivolous claims,” Governor Parson continued.

The proposed legislation includes three main provisions regarding liability protection:
Liability protection for health care workers who provide care as necessitated by a declared state of emergency
Products liability protection for any person who designs, manufactures, labels, sells, distributes, or donates products in direct response to a declared state of emergency
Premises liability protection for exposure claims related to a declared state of emergency

To view the special session proclamation, click here.