Volunteer Protection Act Proclaimed

An act that provides some protection for volunteers in Nova Scotia is now in effect. The Volunteer Protection Act provides limited protection from civil lawsuits for volunteers working with non-profit organizations.

"We believe this act will benefit the many volunteer agencies working within Nova Scotia," said Justice Minister Jamie Muir.
"The volunteer sector is enormously important to our economic and social well being. I sincerely hope this act will assist non- profit organizations in recruiting willing volunteers."

Under the legislation, volunteers cannot be held personally liable when acting within the scope of their responsibilities and when they are properly licensed, certified or authorized.

The act provides volunteers with limited protection unless they are negligent or in violation of other laws.

The Volunteer Protection Act does not prevent a civil action from being brought against non-profit organizations.