Volunteers preparing to respond to disasters in Nebraska have the same immunity from liability as those in paid positions.
That’s the legal opinion of Attorney General Jon Bruning’s office in response to questions from Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy.
The opinion says volunteers involved in activities at the local, county or state levels are not liable in the event of personal injury or property damage arising from their work except in the case of “willful misconduct, gross negligence or bad faith.”
It says the Nebraska Emergency Management Act provides that immunity. While it doesn’t specifically distinguish between training and exercising, he says both are critical to emergency management.
The opinion says changes to clarify the law are not needed.
Copyright 2012 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
peterparker says: 
Banks Still Face Legal Claims After $25 Billion Settlement
MF Global Judge to Examine Insurance Payments for Former Executives
Daredevil CEOs May Put Companies at Risk
California Independent Contractor Law May Be Liability for Agents, Brokers
North Carolina Continues Auto Regulation Debate As Rates Stay Same for 2012
Long-time California Lobbyist Looks to 2012 Legislation Affecting Insurance
Mine Safety Chief Seeks to End Complacency Over Safety
Virginia Court Grants Rehearing of Global Warming Claims Case
