Georgia Senate Bill 359, which was amended as the “Georgia COVID-19 Pandemic Business Safety Act,” provides certain immunities for COVID-19 related tort claims that are not the result of gross negligence, willful and wanton misconduct, reckless infliction of harm, or intentional infliction of harm.
It further establishes assumption of risk presumptions and sets out provisions whereby entities can provide notification of waiver of risk through the posting of specified signage and other methods. The Act took effect immediately following signature by Gov. Brian Kemp on August 5, 2020, and applies to causes of action accruing until July 14, 2021.
This legislation may be of interest to AKC-affiliated clubs with concerns about conducting their events while under a higher-than-normal exposure to liability risks.
Individuals, clubs, businesses, and others with questions about this new law are urged to seek qualified legal counsel.
AKC Government Relations continues to track bills across the country relating to the issue of COVID-19 liability. For the latest information on this topic, visit the COVID-19 Liability key issues page in the AKC Legislative Action Center.
To view AKC legislative information and updates relating to COVID-19 and how they are impacting dogs, events, and businesses, visit www.akcgr.org/covid19.