Norgaard v. Port of Portland

This case is about whether the Port of Portland is entitled to immunity from an action based on federal law under the doctrine of “pre-ratification immunity.” Plaintiff, who was employed by the Port of Portland, was injured while working on a vessel that was providing assistance to a dredge on the Columbia River. He applied for and received workers’ compensation benefits. Plaintiff later brought this action to recover damages under general maritime law and the federal Jones Act. The Port moved for summary judgment, the trial court granted the Port’s motion, and plaintiff appeals. Applying the…