Correctional personnel: peer support.
The legislation empowers the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) to develop a peer support network, which will be reflective of the workforce's demographics and experiences, thereby fostering a more inclusive and understanding environment within correctional facilities. By allowing correctional employees to confidentially communicate their struggles with trained peers, the bill is expected to mitigate the negative psychological effects associated with high-stress stakeholder roles in the correctional system.
Assembly Bill 2554, introduced by Assembly Member Gipson, aims to establish a structured peer support and crisis referral program specifically for correctional personnel in California. The bill extends certain confidentiality protections and legal liabilities to those involved in the program, facilitating a supportive network for individuals experiencing emotional or professional stress. It aims to create an environment where correctional staff can seek peer assistance for various issues, including substance abuse, critical incident stress, grief, and workplace challenges.
AB 2554 also mandates the formation of a peer support advisory committee to oversee the program, ensuring that the policies and procedures developed are robust and effective. This legislative initiative reflects an acknowledgment of the challenges faced by correctional officers and aims to provide both immediate and long-term solutions for mental health and emotional support in a demanding profession.
One notable aspect of the bill is its liability protections for participants in the peer support program. Those providing peer support services, as specified in the legislation, would not face liability for damages under certain conditions, barring cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct. This provision encourages more personnel to participate in the program without the fear of legal repercussions, although it raises questions about the responsibilities of peer support members and the boundaries of their roles when it comes to handling critical incidents or crises.