The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry has released its recommendations for liability policy reform in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic on May 15. The organization is looking to protect business owners from the potential of excessive and frivolous lawsuits.
“Right now, Louisiana’s economy is experiencing an unprecedented crisis,” said LABI President Stephen Waguespack. “As businesses start to recover, they should be able to focus on getting their employees back to work and opening their doors without living in constant fear of being sued.”
For essential infrastructure companies that have worked to comply with COVID-19 guidance from the government, LABI suggests these things and a few others:
- Protect essential businesses and bolster post-pandemic economic recovery from lawsuits for injury or damage as a result of potential exposure to the virus while at work, undertaking work activities or using or making products
- Protect healthcare providers government employees, and first responders. State policymakers should supplement liability protections through the Federal Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness (PREP) Act. Limit legal liability for those who produce, distribute, donate or use personal protective equipment.
- Lower car insurance rates for Louisiana residents;
- End government sponsored lawsuits;
The organization notes that high auto insurance rates and coastal litigation (government sponsored lawsuits) brought against the oil and gas industry) are persistent barriers to business growth in the region. And, those things increase the financial hardship and pressure on Louisiana’s job creators and business owners during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry has worked since 1975 to represent businesses in the state, as the Chamber of Commerce and state manufacturer’s association. Visit LABI.org to learn more.