What does "governmental immunity" refer to?

"Governmental immunity" refers to the legal doctrine that protects government entities and their employees from being sued for certain actions taken during the performance of their official duties. This immunity is often established by local, state, or federal laws, which shield governmental bodies from liability in many circumstances, particularly in the context of providing public services such as emergency response.

This concept is essential in ensuring that government officials can perform their duties without the constant fear of lawsuits that could arise from their decisions, especially in high-pressure situations like emergency services. It encourages public officials to serve without hesitation, knowing that they are protected when acting in accordance with the law.

The other options touch on related topics but do not encompass the full scope of governmental immunity. Protection for private entities and legal immunity solely for elected officials do not accurately reflect the broad nature of governmental immunity. Similarly, while emergency services may benefit from certain protections, the term is not restricted to them alone, making the broader definition that includes liability protections set by law the most accurate choice.