Missouri Senate Holds All-Nighter on Coronavirus-Related Lawsuits

(Jefferson City) The Missouri Senate has given initial approval to a bill intended to limit coronavirus-related lawsuits against businesses and other organizations.

State senators pulled an all-nighter on the legislation that would shield places like health care providers, schools, manufacturers and churches from such lawsuits in many instances.

During the 15-hour filibuster, Creve Coeur Democrat Jill Schupp expressed concerns about a product liability provision.

During the filibuster that lasted until about 5 this morning, Senator Mike Moon of Ash Grove and fellow Republican Bill White of Joplin discussed the legislation.

Under the bill, a plaintiff must clearly prove the entity or individual acted in reckless or willful misconduct that caused exposure to COVID-19.

Such lawsuits must be filed within a year of an alleged COVID-19 exposure.