Heightened awareness of disaster preparedness and recovery has prompted an increased interest in Good Samaritan legislation. Shortly after September 11, Pennsylvania Governor Mark Schweiker (R) signed a Good Samaritan law. The New York State Assembly is also considering an architects and engineers Good Samaritan law. This is the fourth session in a row that the measure, which limits professional liability for volunteers, has been introduced. The governor has vetoed the other attempts.

AIA members interested in encouraging their state legislators to pass such legislation can benefit from sample legislative language found on the AIA portal by searching under "Model Architect and Engineer Liability Laws." The national component's State and Local Government Affairs staff can also provide the relevant texts from states that have enacted such laws. If you have any questions, contact Christy Agner, program manager, 202-626-7381.

Copyright 2001 The American Institute of Architects. All rights reserved.