HF 28 Summary - "Never Again Bill"

• Governor and state director prohibited from suspending constitutional rights including free speech, religion, assembly, bear arms, travel, and lawful business operation during emergencies.

• Persons exercising protected rights during emergencies assume absolute custodial responsibility for safety of others; innocent parties injured by such actions have civil cause of action for damages including attorney fees with two-year statute of limitations.

• Declared emergencies limited to five days unless extended by joint resolution of both houses of the legislature; extensions beyond 30 days require legislative approval, and governor cannot reissue emergency declaration for same or similar emergency if not renewed.

• Governor's emergency orders and rules do not have full force and effect of law unless passed by legislature within five days and filed with Secretary of State.

• Defines "bioterrorism" and "public health emergency" with specific criteria including new or novel airborne infectious agents causing large numbers of deaths, serious disabilities, or widespread exposure risks.