Essential Worker Liability Issue Addressed in Congress

SIOUX FALLS, SD, May 13, 2020.  Very early into the COVID-19 pandemic the ATM Industry Association (ATMIA) identified potential concerns over the liability of essential workers, including ATM operators, for transmission of the disease.  It is not hard to imagine a rash of spurious lawsuits – far exceeding what the industry experienced over fee placards eight years ago – attempting to blame ATM operators for a specific infection.  A group of 36 industry associations with similar concerns submitted a letter to Senator Lindsey Graham, Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, which was entered into the record during yesterday’s hearing.

Industries deemed as “essential services” are required to continue operating during the pandemic to the greatest extent possible.  ATM operators, both independents and financial institutions, have put their own health and well-being at risk to ensure that American citizens have access to cash and other financial services during this crisis. 

Quoting the letter:

“Given the historic efforts of Congress and the Administration to save businesses large and small as well as American jobs with trillions of dollars in investments, it would be devastating to have these same employers facing a threat to their survival through unjust lawsuits.”

“Given the threat of expensive and difficult to prove cases against essential employers, we request the Committee to provide leadership and support for liability protection language for businesses designated as essential critical infrastructure by the DHS Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s guidance in the next (phase 4) COVID-19 stimulus bill.”

A copy of this letter, as well as additional information regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, the safety of cash, and other related resources can be found on ATMIA’s Conronavirus web page.

ABOUT ATMIA - ATMIA is the leading non-profit trade association representing the entire global ATM industry. ATMIA serves thousands of members from around 500 companies globally, spanning the entire ATM ecosphere, including financial institutions, independent ATM deployers, equipment manufacturers, processors, and a plethora of ATM service and value-added solution providers. ATMIA provides education, advocacy and connections to help its members keep abreast of industry news and developments; increase knowledge and professionalism; improve operational efficiencies; understand and influence regulatory processes; participate in the local, regional and global ATM community; and forge new relationships to advance their businesses. Founded in 1997, ATMIA has active chapters in the United States, Canada, Europe, Latin America, Asia-Pacific, Asia, Africa, India and the Middle East focusing on the unique needs and issues of each region. For more information, please visit atmia.com. Follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook or YouTube.