Subdivision 1. Reporting. Any person, other than the unlicensed complementary and alternative health care practitioner who committed the violation, health care facility, business, or organization is immune from civil liability or criminal prosecution for submitting a report to the office, for otherwise reporting to the office violations or alleged violations of this chapter, or for cooperating with an investigation of a report, except as provided in this subdivision. Any person who knowingly or recklessly makes a false report is liable in a civil suit for any damages suffered by the person or persons so reported and for any punitive damages set by the court or jury. An action requires clear and convincing evidence that the defendant made the statement with knowledge of falsity or with reckless disregard for its truth or falsity. The report or statement or any statement made in cooperation with an investigation or as part of a disciplinary proceeding is privileged except in an action brought under this subdivision.

Subd. 2. Investigation. The commissioner and employees of the Department of Health and other persons engaged in the investigation of violations and in the preparation, presentation, and management of and testimony pertaining to charges of violations of this chapter are immune from civil liability and criminal prosecution for any actions, transactions, or publications in the execution of, or relating to, their duties under this chapter.

History: 2000 c 460 s 13