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Schools Get Temporary COVID-19 Lawsuit Protection

This law temporarily protects schools and universities from lawsuits related to COVID-19 infections on their premises. This means individuals (students, staff, visitors) may have limited ability to seek compensation unless the school acted with gross negligence or willful misconduct.
Key points
Elementary schools, secondary schools, and higher education institutions are protected from legal liability for COVID-19 infections on their premises.
Protection covers students, employees, and visitors.
Protection does not apply if harm resulted from willful misconduct, gross negligence, or reckless disregard by the school.
The law is effective from January 31, 2022, until January 31, 2025.
Federal rules override state rules, unless state rules provide schools greater protection.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_5079
Sponsor: Rep. Murphy, Gregory [R-NC-3]
Process start date: 2021-08-23
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-04-17
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Open Schools Responsibly Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_5079.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-08-23.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Elementary schools, secondary schools, and higher education institutions are protected from legal liability for COVID-19 infections on their premises.
  • Protection covers students, employees, and visitors.
  • Protection does not apply if harm resulted from willful misconduct, gross negligence, or reckless disregard by the school.
  • The law is effective from January 31, 2022, until January 31, 2025.
  • Federal rules override state rules, unless state rules provide schools greater protection.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Murphy, Gregory [R-NC-3].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Civil Liberties.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-28.

CATEGORIES

Education Courts and Law Health