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Rep. Cole Votes for Protection for Good Samaritans

September 15, 2005

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole voted today for the Katrina Volunteer Protection Act 2005 (H.R. 3736) which passed in the House today. This legislation makes sure that everyone who helps those affected by Hurricane Katrina will be covered by some basic legal protections.

"Thousands of volunteers have answered the call to help those suffering in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Unfortunately, some volunteers are hindered in their efforts, or held back from joining the relief effort because of the threat of lawsuits. This legislation will close the gaps in existing law for those individuals and organizations wanting to help," Congressman Cole said.

Under this legislation volunteers who act in good faith to assist the victims of Hurricane Katrina without compensation, do not have to worry about lawsuits unless they act in a willful, wanton, reckless or criminal manner. Many states' tort laws, including Louisiana's, are unclear regarding who would be covered under Good Samaritan protections and who would not.

Congressman Cole has been working through Rules Committee to ensure that language in this legislation will cover all groups that provide assistance to Hurricane Katrina survivors, including tribal entities and faith-based organizations.

"It is imperative we provide these organizations, such as local governments, faith-based and non-profit organizations, Native American tribes and their volunteers an environment in which they may focus all their efforts and attention on the task at hand," Congressman Cole wrote in a letter to Speaker Hastert. "... these organizations and their volunteers are acting and spending their own money now. Congress has the chance to assist these organizations aid evacuees in an uninhibited and efficient manner."

The threat of local lawsuits could hinder relief efforts. In addition, subsequently well-placed lawsuits could severely burden the federal government by substantively increasing recovery costs and further straining our deployed assets and resources.

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