Mississippi Senate Bill 3049 provides certain protections from civil damages for injury or death related to COVID-19 to individuals, associations, for-profit or nonprofit entities, and other organizations. The Act was signed by Governor Tate Reeves on July 8 and is effective retroactive to March 14, 2020.
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.
Among other provisions, a person or entity, or its agent, who attempts in good faith to follow applicable public health guidance shall be immune from suit for civil damages for injuries or death resulting from exposure to COVID-19 as related to the performance of its functions or services. Certain immunities are also established for owners, lessees, and occupants that directly or indirectly invite or permit any person onto a premise. Immunities do not apply when there is clear and convincing evidence that an entity, its employee, or agent acted with actual malice or willful, intentional misconduct.
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.