Architect and Engineer Good Samaritan Amendment Act of 2025

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Charles Allen

The bill protects architects and engineers from liability when they voluntarily assist in emergencies, promoting community safety and encouraging professional support during crises.

Act A26-0306 Published in DC Register Vol 73 and Page 006817

Purpose and Intent

The Architect and Engineer Good Samaritan Amendment Act of 2025 aims to encourage licensed architects and professional engineers to provide voluntary assistance during life-threatening emergencies in the built environment. The bill seeks to protect these professionals from civil liability when they act in good faith and without compensation, thereby promoting community safety and resilience in the face of disasters.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several important provisions:

Limited Civil Liability: Licensed architects and engineers will not be liable for civil damages resulting from their assistance during life-threatening emergencies, provided they:

Act in good faith and without compensation.
Operate under the direction or approval of a federal or District official.
Assist during a declared public emergency or within 90 days following the end of such an emergency.

Training Requirement: Professionals must complete a training program based on the California Office of Emergency Management’s Safety Assessment Program to qualify for liability protection.

Specific Sections Added: The bill amends the District of Columbia Official Code to include new sections that outline these protections for both architects and engineers.

Who Would Be Affected

Licensed Architects and Engineers: The primary beneficiaries of this legislation are licensed professionals who may be called upon to assist in emergencies.

District Residents and Communities: By encouraging professionals to volunteer their expertise during crises, the bill indirectly benefits the public by enhancing safety and recovery efforts.

Procedural Aspects

Introduced: March 10, 2025, by Councilmember Charles Allen.

Public Hearing: Scheduled for December 3, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. This hearing will allow the public to provide testimony regarding the bill.

Timeline for Testimony: Individuals wishing to testify must register by December 1, 2025. Written testimony can be submitted until December 8, 2025.

Next Steps: Following the public hearing, the bill will undergo further consideration by the Committee on Business and Economic Development.

Conclusion

The Architect and Engineer Good Samaritan Amendment Act of 2025 is a significant legislative effort to enhance community safety by providing legal protections for architects and engineers who volunteer during emergencies. By reducing the fear of liability, the bill encourages these professionals to contribute their skills in critical situations, ultimately benefiting the District of Columbia's response to disasters.

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