The Architect and Engineer Good Samaritan Amendment Act of 2026 aims to provide limited civil liability protections for licensed architects, professional engineers, and professional land surveyors who voluntarily assist during life-threatening emergencies in the built environment. Under this bill, these professionals will not be liable for civil damages, provided their actions are not due to gross negligence or willful misconduct. The assistance must occur during a public emergency declared by the Mayor or within 90 days after such an emergency, and the professionals must act in good faith, without compensation, and at the direction or approval of a federal or District official. Additionally, they must have completed a training program based on the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services Safety Assessment Program.

The bill introduces new definitions and sections into the District of Columbia Official Code, specifically adding definitions for "built environment" and creating sections that outline the limited civil liability for architects, land surveyors, and engineers. These sections detail the conditions under which the liability protections apply, ensuring that licensed professionals can provide necessary assistance without the fear of legal repercussions, thus encouraging their participation in emergency situations.