Michigan Sees Movement with COVID-19 Employer Protection Legislation

On Oct. 14, legislation strongly supported by MCUL and a coalition of more than 40 other trade associations and business groups was passed in the state legislature, aiming to protect employers from liability during the COVID-19 pandemic.

House Bills 6030-6032 and 6101 would, among other provisions, grant immunity to a business from liability for contraction of COVID-19 if the entity complied with all federal, state and local requirements and standards.

The legislation is retroactive so businesses would be covered from March 1, 2020 going forward. Also included in the legislation is a provision in the event that there is a de minimis deviation from strict compliance with the previously mentioned guidance, the employer would still be afforded some protections.

“MCUL has been proud to be part of a coalition of pro-business associations fighting for liability protection and immunity in this difficult COVID environment,” said MCUL CEO Dave Adams. “While the U.S. Congress grapples with this issue, the Michigan legislature has responded to address this important need. MCUL hopes this legislation will be signed into law by the Governor, so that credit unions and other businesses can be granted the deserved protections afforded by the legislation.”