The bill amends Section 6-5-332 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to enhance the civil liability protections for individuals affiliated with or members of community emergency response teams (CERT) who have completed federally recognized training. Specifically, it replaces the previous language that referred to "members of any community emergency response team certified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency" with new language that clarifies that the immunity applies to those who have completed a community emergency response team training curriculum recognized by FEMA. This change aims to ensure that trained CERT members are protected from civil damages when they provide emergency care or assistance during disasters or accidents.
Additionally, the bill maintains existing protections for various emergency responders, including medical professionals and volunteers, by stipulating that they will not be liable for civil damages when acting in good faith and without compensation. The amendments also specify that the immunity for CERT members applies to actions taken within 90 days following a declared emergency. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 6-5-332, 6-5-332
Enrolled: 6-5-332, 6-5-332