Bill > B26-0173

This bill amends the District of Columbia Official Code to provide limited civil liability protections for licensed architects and professional engineers who voluntarily provide assistance during life-threatening emergencies in the built environment. Specifically, architects and engineers will not be liable for civil damages resulting from their assistance, provided they meet four key conditions: (1) they act during a public emergency declared by the Mayor or within 90 days after the emergency, (2) they act in good faith and without compensation, (3) they act at the direction or with the approval of a federal or District official believed to be acting in an official capacity, and (4) they have completed a training program using the California Office of Emergency Management's Safety Assessment Program. The liability protection only applies in the absence of gross negligence or willful misconduct. This bill aims to encourage licensed professionals to voluntarily help assess and respond to safety challenges in buildings and infrastructure during and immediately after emergency situations, without fear of legal repercussions if they are acting in good faith and with proper training.

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https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/B26-0173