Arkansas committee advances legislation protecting volunteer veterans from civil liability
January 25, 2023 | JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
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In a recent meeting of the Arkansas Senate Judiciary Committee, discussions centered on the introduction of legislation aimed at protecting volunteers, particularly veterans, from civil liability while performing good Samaritan acts. The meeting, held on January 25, 2023, highlighted the importance of encouraging volunteerism in the community, especially among local fire departments and other service organizations.
Senator Johnson, who sponsored the bill, emphasized that without legal protections, potential volunteers might hesitate to engage in community service due to fears of personal risk. He noted that the proposed legislation would not shield any bad actors but would instead foster a safer environment for those acting in good faith to help others. The committee acknowledged the growing need for such protections, especially in light of a reported 41 percent increase in suicides from 2010 to 2018, which underscores the critical role of community support and intervention.
Senator Tucker expressed gratitude for the service of veterans and the importance of the proposed legislation, indicating a strong bipartisan support for the initiative. The committee discussed existing good Samaritan laws in other states, noting that while many states have similar protections, Arkansas's legislation would specifically address the needs of veterans.
The bill received unanimous approval from the committee, signaling a significant step toward enhancing legal protections for volunteers in Arkansas. As the legislation moves forward, it reflects a broader commitment to supporting community service and recognizing the vital contributions of volunteers, particularly those who have served in the military.
The meeting concluded with a sense of accomplishment as the committee prepared to advance the bill, highlighting the ongoing efforts to create a supportive legal framework for those who dedicate their time and efforts to helping others in need.
Senator Johnson, who sponsored the bill, emphasized that without legal protections, potential volunteers might hesitate to engage in community service due to fears of personal risk. He noted that the proposed legislation would not shield any bad actors but would instead foster a safer environment for those acting in good faith to help others. The committee acknowledged the growing need for such protections, especially in light of a reported 41 percent increase in suicides from 2010 to 2018, which underscores the critical role of community support and intervention.
Senator Tucker expressed gratitude for the service of veterans and the importance of the proposed legislation, indicating a strong bipartisan support for the initiative. The committee discussed existing good Samaritan laws in other states, noting that while many states have similar protections, Arkansas's legislation would specifically address the needs of veterans.
The bill received unanimous approval from the committee, signaling a significant step toward enhancing legal protections for volunteers in Arkansas. As the legislation moves forward, it reflects a broader commitment to supporting community service and recognizing the vital contributions of volunteers, particularly those who have served in the military.
The meeting concluded with a sense of accomplishment as the committee prepared to advance the bill, highlighting the ongoing efforts to create a supportive legal framework for those who dedicate their time and efforts to helping others in need.
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