AR HB1392

Registered architects and professional engineers providing voluntary design services without compensation (except expense reimbursement) during declared national, state, or local emergencies are protected from liability for personal injury, wrongful death, property damage, or other losses related to their acts, errors, or omissions.

Eligible emergencies include those caused by earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, fires, explosions, collapses, or other similar disasters or catastrophic events, and services must be provided at the request of or with approval of a public official, law enforcement official, public safety official, or building inspection official.

Immunity applies only to voluntary services occurring during the emergency or within 90 days following the end of the emergency period, unless extended by executive order from the Governor.

The immunity does not protect against wanton, willful, or intentional misconduct.

Professional engineers are subject to the same good Samaritan protections as registered architects under the law.