The legislation would protect Missouri nursing homes and other groups from coronavirus-related lawsuits for four years, a step that some lawmakers and industry groups say is necessary to prevent a possible deluge of liability cases. But advocates contend the proposal would eliminate all consequences for nursing home operators. Borya | Flickr / Originally published on April 16, 2021 5:28 pm Missouri lawmakers are considering legislation that would protect nursing homes and other businesses from coronavirus-related lawsuits. Supporters say the measure, approved by the Missouri Senate in February, is necessary to prevent a wave of litigation against businesses already struggling to survive. Similar liability shields have been enacted in more than a dozen other states, but some advocates worry the proposal will prevent nursing home residents from holding facilities legally responsible for abuse and neglect.