DeSantis May Strip Lawsuit Protection from Businesses Requiring COVID-19 Vaccinations -

"Thus far, the administration has identified around 120 businesses, big and small, and local governments that it may seek penalties against under the law, according to the Department of Health."

Why this is important: At the onset of the pandemic, many states (including Florida) enacted statutes protecting businesses from liability for employees or customers who contracted COVID-19 on the businesses' premises. These types of statutes are commonly referred to as "litigation shields" and were widely viewed as necessary and beneficial for the economy and businesses to survive. Now, as part of his ongoing fight against vaccine mandates, Governor Ron DeSantis has floated the idea of removing Florida's litigation shield from businesses that enact vaccine mandates. Although the Governor's logic is far from clear, it appears that he may be suggesting that businesses that enact vaccine mandates should be legally responsible for any vaccine-related side effects employees may suffer. Although such an action would have to be approved by the Legislature, and would almost certainly be subject to legal attack, if this idea gains popularity then it may indeed have an intimidating effect on Floridian business owners who disagree with Governor DeSantis' personal beliefs as to vaccines and the pandemic.