Arkansas: Governor’s Order Establishes Certain COVID-19 Liability Protections During Current Health Emergency

An executive order signed in June by Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson extends certain liability protections to businesses that open or remain open during the COVID-19 health emergency.  Among other provisions, persons and their employees, agents, and officers shall be immune from civil liability for damages or injuries resulting from exposure to COVID-19 on the premises, or during any activity managed by those persons.  The immunity does not apply to willful, reckless, or intentional misconduct and presumes substantial compliance with health and safety directives or guidelines.

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

Persons, clubs, businesses, and other entities with questions about the Arkansas executive order 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.