Lubbock Times

The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce has joined close to 500 organizations from all over the nation in requesting COVID-19 liability protections.

The coalition is aiming for timely, targeted and temporary liability relief provisions contained in the S. 4317 “SAFE TO WORK Act." These temporary liability relief provisions would protect health care professionals, health care providers, and health care facilities. Additionally, the provisions will protest all businesses, nonprofits, and educational establishments against petty lawsuits that can hinder their battle against the coronavirus. 

“I believe all businesses deserve these liability protections as they continue to safely reopen in Lubbock and across the country,” Eddie McBride, the Lubbock Chamber president and CEO said in a press release. “This coalition, spearheaded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is a no-brainer. We must protect businesses from unfair lawsuits due to the COVID-19 pandemic in order to keep our economy afloat.”

The recent coalition letter says lawsuits can also hinder the reopening of the state.

“COVID-19-related lawsuits and their consequent exorbitant legal costs could deter entities from reopening and could ultimately cripple businesses, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations both large and small,” the coalition letter states.