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Senate COVID-19 Business Liability Bill Passes First Stop

Young waiter wearing protective face mask while cleaning tables while working in a cafe.
Drazen Zigic
/
Adobe Stock
Young waiter wearing protective face mask while cleaning tables while working in a cafe.

Legislation shielding Florida businesses from COVID-19 related claims is moving in the state Senate. Sen. Jeff Brandes (R-St. Petersburg) is carrying the proposal in the chamber:

“If we had not had businesses stay open especially our essential businesses individuals would not have had access to pharmaceuticals. They would not have access to gas in their cars or food at their table," said Brandes. "Senate Bill 72 creates a civil liability protection for individuals, businesses, or other organizations against COVDI-19 related claims.”

Opponents worry the measure would make businesses immune to lawsuits. Brandes says it would prevent what he calls frivolous lawsuits. A similar plan is already moving in the House. Senate President Wilton Simpson says the bill’s advancement is a message that “Florida is open for business.”

Blaise Gainey is a State Government Reporter for WFSU News. Blaise hails from Windermere, Florida. He graduated from The School of Journalism at the Florida A&M University. He formerly worked for The Florida Channel, WTXL-TV, and before graduating interned with WFSU News. He is excited to return to the newsroom. In his spare time he enjoys watching sports, Netflix, outdoor activities and anything involving his daughter.