NFIB State Director Bill Herrle released the following statement in response to the final passage of Senate Bill 72, legislation to provide COVID-19 liability protections to small businesses and other organizations that follow the government’s health and safety guidelines. It passed the House today by a vote of 83-31. SB 72 passed the Senate on March 18 by a vote of 24-15: 

“This is a big relief for small businesses. The cost of defending itself against just one meritless claim can be enough to put someone out of business. 

“Organizations that ignore the rules should be held accountable, but a small business that follows the government’s guidelines and take the steps necessary to protect their customers and their employees from the coronavirus shouldn’t have to worry about a trial attorney who’s trying to take advantage of the situation.  

“Our members look forward to Governor DeSantis signing SB 72 into law. SB 72 is the vaccine that will protect small business owners and their employees from predatory lawsuits.”