Architects and engineers seek Good Samaritan protections as Council committee reviews bill

The Committee on Business and Economic Development took testimony Dec. 3 on Bill 26‑173, the Architect and Engineer Good Samaritan Amendment Act of 2025, which would limit civil liability for licensed architects and professional engineers who, in good faith and without compensation, render assistance at the scene of—or within 90 days after—a life‑threatening emergency in the built environment when acting at the direction or with approval of a federal or district official. Chair Kenyon McDuffie convened the hearing and described the bill’s core function and referral history.

Elizabeth Kabachevich, advocacy committee chair for the Washington chapter of the American Institute of Architects and an ANC 4C04 commissioner, testified in support and framed the measure as a way to ensure expertise is available during disasters. "Architects who choose to assist their local communities during emergencies should not have to be concerned about potential liability issues that may arise," Kabachevich said, adding that the bill conditions protection on licensure and successful completion of the Safety Assessment Program or an equivalent standard. She told the committee her chapter has already trained 30 licensed architects ready to volunteer.

During questions, McDuffie and Kabachevich discussed the bill’s 90‑day window after an emergency and whether other professionals or entities—such as land surveyors or firms—should be included. Kabachevich said she would follow up with examples from other jurisdictions. Committee staff noted the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) submitted written testimony supporting the bill’s intent while flagging drafting concerns, and that Homeland Security Emergency Management Agency plans to file a letter of support. The committee did not take a vote at the hearing; members and witnesses requested technical follow‑up on scope and drafting before further action.