The Architect and Engineer Good Samaritan Amendment Act of 2025 aims to provide limited civil liability protections for licensed architects and professional engineers who voluntarily assist during life-threatening emergencies in the built environment. This legislation is designed to encourage these professionals to offer their expertise without fear of legal repercussions, as long as their actions are in good faith, without compensation, and at the direction or approval of a federal or District official. The protections apply during a declared public emergency or within 90 days following the end of such an emergency, and the professionals must have completed a specific training program related to safety evaluations.

To implement this, the bill amends Subchapter I-B of Chapter 28 of Title 47 of the District of Columbia Official Code by adding new sections that outline the conditions under which architects and engineers can operate without civil liability. Specifically, it establishes that these professionals will not be liable for civil damages unless gross negligence or willful misconduct is proven. The bill reflects a growing trend across the country, as many states already have similar Good Samaritan laws in place to protect those who provide emergency assistance.