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S 1132

APPROPRIATIONS – STATE INDEPENDENT LIVING COUNCIL – Relates to the appropriation to the State Independent Living Council for fiscal year 2026.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

The Bystander Protection Act shields individuals from legal liability when they help in emergencies, encouraging community support and potentially saving lives.

Signed by Governor on 03/31/25 Session Law Chapter 225 Effective: 07/01/2025
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Bill Summary · S 1132

Summary of Bill S 1132: Bystander Protection Act

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: S 1132
  • Title: Establishes the Bystander Protection Act
  • Status: Referred to Codes
  • Introduced On: January 08, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The Bystander Protection Act aims to provide legal protections for individuals who intervene in emergency situations to assist others. The intent of the bill is to encourage bystanders to take action during emergencies without the fear of legal repercussions, thereby promoting a culture of assistance and community support.

Key Provisions

While the specific text of the bill is not provided, typical provisions in similar legislation may include:

  • Legal Immunity: Protection from civil liability for bystanders who provide assistance in good faith during emergencies.
  • Definition of Emergency Situations: Clear definitions of what constitutes an emergency, potentially including medical emergencies, acts of violence, or other life-threatening situations.
  • Training and Awareness Programs: Provisions for public education campaigns to inform citizens about their rights and responsibilities under the act.
  • Reporting Requirements: Guidelines for reporting incidents where bystanders intervene, to gather data on the effectiveness of the act.

Impact

The Bystander Protection Act is expected to have several impacts:

  • Encouragement of Bystander Intervention: By providing legal protections, the bill aims to increase the likelihood that individuals will step in during emergencies, potentially saving lives.
  • Community Engagement: The act may foster a sense of community responsibility and solidarity, as citizens feel empowered to help one another.
  • Legal Clarity: It will clarify the legal standing of bystanders, reducing hesitation to act due to fear of litigation.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on January 08, 2025, and has been referred to the Codes Committee for further consideration.
  • The legislative process will include discussions, potential amendments, and votes within the committee before it can progress to the full legislative body.

Related Legislation

S 1132 is related to several prior-session bills, including:
- S 4042
- S 2548
- S 1326
- S 671
- A 571 (companion bill)

These related bills may provide context or additional frameworks for understanding the Bystander Protection Act and its potential implications.

Conclusion

The Bystander Protection Act represents a significant step towards encouraging community involvement in emergencies by offering legal protections to those who choose to help. As it moves through the legislative process, stakeholders and citizens will be watching closely to understand its final provisions and impacts.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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