AGC-inspired Good Samaritan Act Introduced in the House This Week

This week, Congressman Dave Reichert (R-Wash.) and Congressman Jim Matheson (D-Utah) introduced the Good Samaritan for Construction, Architectural, and Engineering Volunteers Act, H.R. 1145.   This bill would provide construction contractors and other entities limited immunity from liability for negligence when providing services or equipment on a volunteer basis in response to a declared emergency or disaster.  It would not cover gross negligence or willful misconduct. Those protected under the bill would be providing such assistance at the direction of a public official acting in an official capacity. This legislation would provide limited protection for those responding in the immediate aftermath of a tragic event.  The fear of law suits should not make construction contractors hesitate or decide not to assist in times of need. AGC supports this bill and will be asking other members of the House of Representatives to co-sponsor the legislation once it is introduced. For more information, contact Kelly Knott at (202) 547-4685 or knottk@agc.org.