MS HB1397

Creates the "Mississippi Architects and Engineers Good Samaritan Act" to provide liability immunity for licensed architects and engineers performing safety assessment services during declared emergencies at the request of public officials.

Immunity applies only to safety assessment services (structural inspections and evaluations) that occur during an emergency or within 90 days after, provided the professional acts as a reasonably prudent person would under similar circumstances.

Exempts out-of-state licensed architects and engineers from Mississippi licensing requirements while performing emergency safety assessments, but limits other architectural or engineering services (design, demolition plans, construction documents) to Mississippi-licensed professionals.

Excludes immunity for wanton, willful, or intentional misconduct; does not apply to architectural or engineering services beyond safety assessments.

Brings forward Section 11-46-9 (governmental entity liability exemptions) without modification; effective July 1, 2022.