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The Indiana State Senate continues to advance Senate Bill 1, which provides certain liability protections when there has been exposure to the COVID-19 virus.

This new law may be of potential interest to some AKC-affiliated clubs with concerns about conducting their events while under a higher-than-normal exposure to liability risks.

Those who participate in dog events in Indiana are strongly encouraged to contact their State Senator TODAY and ask them to support this bill.  Tell them about the shows/events in which you participate in Indiana and the benefit they provide to the community.  Type your address at this link to find the name and contact information for your State Senator.

Talking Points:
View the following documents for more information on the benefits of dog shows and other AKC dog events:

The Economic Benefits of AKC Dog Shows
Economic Impact of AKC Dog Shows – Indiana (2019)
It Pays to Support AKC Dog Shows
Conformation Shows: More than Just a Pretty Face

Bill Summary:

Among other provisions, the bill would protect any “person” (including but not limited to individuals, associations, etc.) from civil liability for damages or injury “resulting from exposure of an individual to coronavirus.”  This includes premises owned or managed by a person, and activities managed, organized, or sponsored by a person.

The exemption would not apply to gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct, when there is clear and convincing evidence.

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.

For more information, contact AKC Government Relations at doglaw@akc.org.