Bill > H5155

This bill modifies existing Rhode Island law to extend state employee protections and rights to architects and other authorized disaster response workers when they are providing voluntary, uncompensated professional services during a declared disaster emergency. Specifically, the bill amends Section 5-1-16 to clarify that architects and other disaster response workers who are practicing their professional skills during a state-declared emergency will be considered state employees and entitled to the same rights as state employees under certain legal provisions, even if they are not receiving compensation. The bill maintains existing protections that limit liability for these professionals, ensuring they cannot be sued for personal injury, property damage, or other losses caused during their voluntary disaster response efforts, unless their actions constitute gross negligence or willful misconduct. The law applies specifically to architectural services related to the structural integrity and public safety of buildings or systems identified in a governor's disaster emergency declaration, and includes a provision that allows registered architects with National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) certification to practice for 90 days following a declared disaster. The act will take effect immediately upon passage.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

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