Similar Act in other jurisdictions ?
In Ontario:
Derek
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Ohio's Good Samaritan Law for engineers, architects, passes Ohio House
TIFFANY L. PARKS
Special to the Legal News
Published: March 26, 2015
Several state lawmakers have applauded the Ohio House for unanimously passing the Good Samaritan Law for Engineers, Surveyors and Architects.
The proposed legislation, House Bill 17, would extend civil immunity to engineers, architects and surveyors volunteering during a declared emergency under the purview of a body authorized to act in an official capacity.
As it currently stands, a registered engineer, surveyor or architect could be sued while volunteering during a declared emergency.
The bill, jointly sponsored by Reps. Bill Blessing, R-Colerain Township, and Al Landis, R-Dover, was recently voted out of the House in a 96-0 vote.
“When an emergency occurs, we need all hands on deck,” said Rep. Tim Ginter, R-Salem. “HB 17 makes provisions to put the ‘A Team’ in the game when we need them most. I am a proud supporter of this bill.”
Rep. Steve Kraus, R-Sandusky, agreed saying that professionals shouldn’t have to fear helping out in an emergency “due to liability issues.”
Under the bill, which is similar to a measure that passed out of the House in the previous General Assembly, volunteers who are acting in those capacities would be granted immunity from civil liability for errors or omissions that occur while performing their services.
The proposed immunity would extend throughout the period of a declared emergency, as well as 90 days afterward.
Joe Warino, a registered professional engineer and surveyor and vice president of legislative and government affairs for the Ohio Society of Professional Engineers, endorsed the proposed legislation.
“This bill would not take away the responsibility of the design professional,” he said. “HB 17 is being introduced to provide protection to the many volunteers who wish to contribute their time and expertise without compensation for the health and safety of the public in the event of a declared emergency or national disaster.”
Warino said the sole intent is for experienced design professionals to provide their best practice and judgment in determining the safety of situations and structures prior to the release of safety services and search and rescue teams.
“One should also be reminded that their assistance shall be introduced at the request of a local public official,” he said.
Blessing pushed the measure to be signed into law.
“The people of Ohio can be assured that when disasters occur the best people will be able to provide expertise and service to ensure the safety of all,” he said.
The bill will move to the Senate for further consideration.
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