A coalition of 12 architect-engineer-contractor groups in New York state is hoping the third attempt since 2013 to get an emergency responder bill passed and signed into law will be successful. The New York Emergency Responder Act would limit liability of design professionals and other emergency responders hired by authorities to provide assistance during post-disaster search, rescue and recovery operations.

Both versions of the bill—Senate 4135, sponsored by Diane J. Savino (D), and Assembly 4241, sponsored by Steve Englebright (D)—are in committee. To be voted on, each version needs to be on the floor of the senate or assembly at least three days in advance of June 15, when the current legislative session ends.