Congress Needs to Pass Liability Protections ‘So I Can Concentrate on Running My Business’
Texas Border Business
Thomas Ward is the owner of the popular Orlando-based restaurant Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa. He has two locations that serve up award-winning barbecue to hungry customers eager to sample his brisket and ribs. After COVID-19 forced him to shut down, Thomas has reopened one of his restaurants and is going above and beyond to keep his customers and employees safe. He and his 20 employees are constantly cleaning and wearing masks and gloves.
What he’s saying: “I feel lucky so far. One of my two restaurants is open and we’re back to 75% of the pre-COVID level of business. Compared to many businesses in the Orlando area, we’re doing pretty well. We’re following all of the latest guidelines to stay safe,” says Ward.
The big picture: Although Ward knows he’s following the public health guidelines, without liability protections, he fears his business is vulnerable to a lawsuit. He wants Congress to pass protections against opportunistic lawsuits so he can focus on building his business back up rather than spending time with a lawyer.
As he puts it, “the government has helped out with PPP loans for businesses. What I need now is for Congress to pass liability protections from COVID-19 lawsuits so I can concentrate on running my business.”
Looking ahead: The Chamber is urging Congress to pass temporary liability protections for businesses, schools, colleges, and other institutions and establishments in the next coronavirus relief package. Learn more.
Watch more: Ward is one of many small business owners who shared their story and perspective with the U.S. Chamber’s Faces of Lawsuit Abuse campaign. Watch all of the videos here.
