The Ohio House voted overwhelmingly Wednesday to advance legislation that provides immunity to architects who might find themselves offering services as they respond to emergency situations.
The House voted overwhelmingly Wednesday to advance legislation that provides immunity to a number of professionals who might find themselves offering services as they respond to emergency situations.
Al Landis (R-Dover) HB 17 shields architects, contractors, engineers, surveyors, and tradespersons who are working on response efforts during declared emergencies.
The lawmaker said those offering services at a time of crisis shouldn’t have to be worried that their efforts could leave them subject a lawsuit. “We want our ‘A team’ in the game, not on the bench” during times of emergency, he said.
Rep. Bill Blessing (R-Cincinnati), a primary co-sponsor, added that the immunity wouldn’t apply in cases of willful or wanton misconduct.
The bill was approved on a 92-0 vote.