COVID-19 State Liability Protection Bill to Be Filed

Alabama State Senator Arthur Orr (R-Decatur) is preparing to file a bill today to provide liability protection to physicians, health facilities and businesses from claims arising from COVID-19 and the state’s response to the pandemic. 

“These are unprecedented times and the Legislature must take swift action to protect physicians and businesses from COVID-19 frivolous lawsuits,” Sen. Orr said.  “We cannot wait to pass this legislation, as every day that goes by without these protections in place could mean these entities have unknown liability exposure for situations and dynamics far beyond their control.”

Medical Association President John Meigs, M.D., thanked Sen. Orr for his willingness to bring forward the legislation. 

“Practices of every specialty of medicine have been affected by this pandemic, from both the care-provision aspects but also the economic and business side.  The association appreciates Senator Orr’s leadership and willingness to bring this critical legislation forward,” Dr. Meigs said. 

The bill has widespread support among the health care and business communities.  The Legislature may meet as few as five legislative days this week but has as many as 14 at its disposal.  Most of the focus this week will be on local bills and the two state budgets, but the Medical Association is also encouraging legislators to take up Sen. Orr’s bill as a top priority.