Today, TFFA Member Kevin Smartt, CEO and President of McCraw Oil Company and Kwik Chek Stores, testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee at a hearing entitled, “Examining Liability During the COVID-19 Pandemic.” Testimony may be viewed here.

A snippet of testimony is below:
 
“At a time when fuel demand is down approximately 40 percent and in-store sales have been down close to 17 percent, it has taken significant effort, energy, and cost to keep our doors open. On a daily basis, we have chosen to keep all of our employees on payroll for full pay despite the mismatch that presents with our current level of business. Yet, we have made these “people decisions” rather than “economic decisions” because it is the right thing to do. That won’t matter if we get sued on a COVID-related claim, however. Unfortunately, despite trying to do everything we can to protect the health and safety of our customers and employees during this pandemic, my companies have targets on their backs because our doors have remained open. That’s just not right. We are all in this together and my businesses shouldn’t become targets for liability threats just because they serve their communities. A business taking precautions and making tangible efforts should get protections from unjust lawsuits.”
 
Mr. Smartt testified on behalf of the National Association of Convenience Stores, where he serves as Vice Chairman and Treasurer.

TFFA is grateful for members such as Mr. Smartt who expend the time, energy, effort, and expense to represent our industry before legislative bodies.