US Congress will spar over business liability

Significance

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell wants to shield corporate defendants from legal liability from some COVID-19 claims, as some states relax their lockdowns. Republicans including President Donald Trump insist that expanding legal immunity is a necessary condition for any additional stimulus bill to pass.

Impacts

• The legal hurdles facing plaintiffs will grow, especially as more Republican-nominated judges are confirmed.
• Expanding legal liability has stimulated lobbying; changing liability standards will widely affect the disposition of lawsuits.
• The current lobbying activity will also shape the future pattern of campaign finance contributions.