Virus Liability Shield Law Goes to West Virginia Governor’s Desk

West Virginia is set to restrict liability lawsuits related to Covid-19 exposure, injuries, or deaths under legislation headed to Gov. Jim Justice for his signature.

The Republican governor requested the bill and is expected to sign it. The measure takes effect immediately upon his doing so.

West Virginia will then join 20 other states that have enacted liability shield laws that bar coronavirus-related lawsuits against most or all businesses, with limited exceptions for gross negligence or willful misconduct. Many of the laws also shield health-care providers, schools, churches, nonprofits, and/or government entities including prisons from liability claims related to the ...