Emergency services: emergency and natural disaster preparedness: access and functional needs.
The bill’s provisions are significant as they establish a structured approach for preparing emergency services to cater to a diverse population, particularly those with special needs. By requiring the annual posting of a guidance document that outlines best practices and lessons learned, AB 2428 not only promotes transparency but also encourages local governments to adopt standardized procedures for disaster readiness. The emphasis on collaboration with community representatives signifies a shift towards more inclusive emergency management that accounts for the needs of all residents.
Assembly Bill 2428, introduced by Assembly Member Fong, aims to enhance emergency services and disaster preparedness in California by focusing on the integration of individuals with access and functional needs into state emergency planning. The bill amends Section 8570.4 of the Government Code and adds Section 8570.7, which stipulates the requirements for updating the State Emergency Plan. Notably, it mandates the Office of Emergency Services (OES) to engage representatives from the access and functional needs population, including various social service agencies and organizations, to ensure that their concerns and requirements are addressed during updates to the plan.
There may be points of contention surrounding the logistics and funding required to implement these new provisions, especially in relation to coordination among various agencies. Critics could argue that the mandate for additional collaboration may create bureaucratic hurdles that slow down the emergency planning process. However, proponents would counter that the inclusion of diverse voices in planning discussions is crucial for effective disaster response, ultimately leading to a better-prepared state.