PHX Reporter

The Arizona House of Representatives has gone back into session after a two-month absence and wasted little time in addressing its main goal of a liability bill.

The bill is designed to protest businesses against frivolous lawsuits against businesses by an employee infected with COVID-19. The legislation, introduced May 18, allows for a lawsuit but leaves the plaintiff with a burden of proof when it comes to gross negligence. The Arizona Capitol Times said the proposed legislation also states the plaintiff must provide “clear and convincing” evidence. House Speaker Rusty Bowers (R-Mesa) said the true focus of the Republican majority is reopening the economy.

“There is a very large segment of the public that runs our economy, that we have to empower and build their confidence that they’ll be able to reopen and have an acceleration where they can feel comfortable hiring the employees, the employees can feel comfortable, all working together to move the needle,” Bowers told the Capitol Times. “And I think a liability protection bill that has a higher standard on two counts is a good thing to do.”

Bowers also said the coronavirus necessitates special consideration for employers. Businesses harbor fears of facing litigation as lawyers would seize the opportunity to bring suits on behalf of ill clients during the pandemic as they attempt to reopen.

The next step for the bill will be the full House voting on it this week. Should it be approved, it will go to the Senate which has adjourned, albeit without a similar House action.