WeVote

Bill

Bill

A 2203

Exempts certain youths program volunteers from civil liability

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe DeStefano and 5 co-sponsors

Bill A 2203 protects volunteers in youth programs from civil liability, encouraging community involvement and enhancing support for youth through increased volunteer participation.

HELD FOR CONSIDERATION IN JUDICIARY
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 2203

Summary of Bill A 2203

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 2203
  • Title: Exempts Certain Youths Program Volunteers from Civil Liability
  • Status: Referred to Judiciary
  • Introduced: January 15, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 2203 aims to provide legal protection to volunteers who participate in programs designed for youths. The primary intent is to encourage community involvement and support for youth programs by reducing the risk of civil liability for volunteers acting in good faith.

Key Provisions

  • Liability Exemption: The bill proposes that volunteers engaged in specific youth programs will be exempt from civil liability for actions taken while performing their volunteer duties, provided those actions are not willfully negligent or malicious.
  • Scope of Programs: The bill does not specify which youth programs are covered, but it is expected to include a range of activities such as mentoring, coaching, and educational support.
  • Good Faith Requirement: Volunteers must act in good faith and within the scope of their designated responsibilities to qualify for the liability exemption.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Volunteers: Individuals who volunteer in youth programs will benefit from the liability protections, potentially increasing participation rates.
  • Youth Programs: Organizations that run youth programs may see an increase in volunteer recruitment and retention, as the fear of legal repercussions is mitigated.
  • Youth Participants: The bill indirectly benefits youths by promoting more robust programming and support through increased volunteer involvement.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of January 15, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Judiciary Committee for further consideration.
  • Related Bills: A 2203 is part of a broader legislative context, with several related bills from prior sessions (A 7201, A 6664, A 5291, A 5577, A 3695, A 6488, A 5541, A 4733, A 3649) that may address similar issues or provide additional context for the current proposal.

Conclusion

Bill A 2203 seeks to foster volunteerism in youth programs by alleviating concerns about civil liability. By protecting volunteers, the bill aims to enhance community engagement and support for youth initiatives, ultimately benefiting young people through increased access to mentorship and educational opportunities. The bill is currently under review by the Judiciary Committee, and its progress will determine its potential enactment.

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

Sign in to ask a question.