AN ACT RELATING TO BUSINESSES AND PROFESSIONS -- ARCHITECTS .

Disaster responders gain benefits and protections

Effective upon passage, this Rhode Island law gives qualifying disaster responders state-employee rights and benefits during a governor-declared disaster emergency. This covers Rhode Island-licensed architects and firms volunteering without pay at the scene, plus authorized disaster workers using professional, mechanical, or other skills while performing their duties. These rights and benefits apply only to the extent benefits are not otherwise provided by law. Volunteer architects and firms also receive protection from liability for injuries, deaths, property damage, and other losses caused by their architectural services. That protection applies only during the emergency, for buildings, structures, or systems identified under the disaster order or proclamation. Services must concern structural integrity or nonstructural elements affecting public safety. Gross negligence and willful misconduct are not protected. Separately, registered architects with NCARB certification can practice in Rhode Island for 90 days from the governor's disaster declaration.