Senate Republicans To Intro Bill Shielding Employers From “Second Epidemic Of Frivolous” COVID Lawsuits

Courthouse News reports:

Members of the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee expressed concern Tuesday about the possibility of an overwhelming number of lawsuits filed by employees challenging the necessity of their workplace exposure to Covid-19. With an exasperated health care system tattered in the wake of a Covid-19 response, lawmakers have feared litigation by employees against businesses deemed essential could flood the judicial system.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell addressed the issue from the Senate floor Tuesday, saying a “second epidemic of frivolous lawsuits” could stunt an economic recovery. McConnell said Senate Republicans would be producing legislation to offer legal liability protections to businesses, health-care providers and the makers of protective gear. Many business groups have asked for this liability protection to serve as a shield against lawsuits from employees.