Bill > H0491

This bill expands the existing legal protection for individuals who provide emergency assistance to others, ensuring they are not held liable for damages unless their actions constitute gross negligence. Specifically, it clarifies that this immunity applies not only to physical first aid and medical attention but also to "emergency psychological attention," which includes responding to mental health crises, suicidal thoughts, and suicidal crises. This means that someone offering help in a mental health emergency, without expecting payment, will be protected from lawsuits unless they act with extreme carelessness. The bill also states that this immunity ends once the person receiving aid is transferred to a hospital, a medical professional's care, or an ambulance. Furthermore, the bill declares an emergency and sets an effective date of July 1, 2026.

Justice

Judiciary, Rules and Administration Committee (House)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/H0491/