HB 1328 Summary

• Licensed architects and professional engineers providing voluntary architectural, structural, electrical, mechanical or design services during declared national, state or local emergencies caused by natural disasters or catastrophic events are granted immunity from liability except for gross negligence, willful or wanton misconduct, and wrongful death.

• Immunity for emergency services applies only during the emergency period or within 90 days after termination of the declared state of emergency, unless extended by gubernatorial executive order.

• Out-of-state licensed architects or professional engineers who are members of mobile support teams may inspect and placard structures for safety in Oklahoma upon Governor request and with temporary licensing, with similar immunity protections.

• Professional engineers or architects who voluntarily produce risk-assessment reports for schools addressing hardening options, storm shelters, safe rooms, or refuge area recommendations to the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management receive immunity from liability except for wrongful death and gross negligence or willful misconduct.

• Municipalities must preserve damaged or collapsed structures resulting in fatalities for independent investigation by licensed engineers and architects, require owners to provide final design drawings, and prohibit demolition until field investigation is complete.

• "Safe room," "storm shelter," and "tornado shelter" designations are limited to facilities meeting FEMA Publication 361 or ICC-500 standards; other protective areas must be called "refuge areas."