Rosemary Elebash, the National Federation of Independent Business state director, said small business is urging the Senate to pass SB30, a measure that would provide COVID-19 liability protections for employers and other organizations that follow safety protocols. The bill cleared the Senate Judiciary Committee this morning by a vote of 9-2.

“Small businesses that follow the government’s guidelines to protect their customers and employees should be protected from baseless claims related to the pandemic,” Elebash said. “Businesses that ignore the rules should be held accountable, but those that follow the guidelines should be shielded from lawsuits.

“Small businesses already are struggling to get through the crisis, and the cost of defending themselves against even one frivolous claim could be enough to put them out of business and put their employees out of work,” Elebash said. “On behalf of our members, we urge the Alabama Senate to pass SB30.”