Skip to Content

Volunteer Protection Act of 1997

The Volunteer Protection Act of 1997 is a federal law providing immunity from personal liability for volunteers of qualifying nonprofit organizations.

On This Page

Volunteer Protection Act of 1997

The Volunteer Protection Act of 1997 is a federal law providing immunity from personal liability for volunteers of qualifying nonprofit organizations.

Additional Information


Despite the fact that the Act can be raised as a defense to claims, it does not eliminate the need for association professional liability or nonprofit directors and officers (D&O) liability insurance. This is because, when faced with a claim, the volunteer must retain legal counsel. Also, the Act is not intended to protect a volunteer whose conduct was willful or intentional (as opposed to merely negligent).

Related Terms