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… simultaneously released to theaters and streaming service HBO Max. With movie theaters still shuttered in New York and Los Angeles, attendance was down 92 percent at AMC theaters in October and November. If that trend doesn’t turn around, the movie company would need over $750 million to keep its locations open. A look back at 2020 reveals an ever darkening trend for the entertainment and live events industry. Early on, the pandemic halted movie and TV productions entirely and forced the cancellation of concerts and other live events. Media stocks plummeted and many people lost their jobs. While the …

… announced the addition of coronavirus testing facilities at both O’Hare International and Midway Airports. The city is hopeful that the presence of easily accessible testing locations will encourage the resumption of both leisure and business travel though its airports. Navigating the dynamic business landscape in a post-coronavirus era will require patience, flexibility and a willingness to both embrace new technologies, as well as knowing when older customs, such as a face to face meeting, are required. FMCSA Extends and Expands Emergency Declaration The Department of Transportation (DOT) announced on December 1 that all necessary regulatory measures have …

… there are other notable wins in the policyholders’ column. In Studio 417 v. Cincinnati Insurance Co., a U.S. district judge in Missouri denied the insurer’s motion to dismiss a complaint filed by Studio 417. The court found that the presence of coronavirus in the salon chain’s Missouri locations were a physical substance that attached to and damaged their property. Therefore, rendering them unsafe and therefore presented a valid reason for the case to move forward. In a later suit, Blue Springs Dental Care v. Owners Insurance, the same judge restated the same argument, finding reason for the …

… Mutual Insurance Co., workers and family members filed suit against McDonald’s for public nuisance and negligence because of their decision to remain open during the pandemic. The plaintiffs contend they have been exposed to the virus and incurred an increased likelihood of contraction because of the fast food chain location’s decision. In the absence of federal legislation, states have forged ahead with liability and compensability measures of their own. In Michigan, a bill guaranteeing immunity for health care workers providing COVID-19 care from civil action was passed 29-8, and a second bill aims to protect businesses …

… and professional services sectors. Of course, once events do resume, they will look entirely different than before the onset of the pandemic. Sales-oriented conferences and trade-show exhibitions may be the first to resume in-person events. However, many events will retain virtual and hybrid options, even using multiple locations to keep attendees levels lower at each spot, yet higher overall. China and South Korea provide an interesting example of what the U.S. may hope to achieve. There, major domestic auto and construction trade shows resumed in April with 40,000 attendees. Health and safety requirements and mandatory …