California Assembly Bill AB1071

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/18/21
• Refer: 3/4/21
• Report Pass: 3/25/21
• Refer: 3/26/21
• Report Pass: 4/7/21
• Refer: 4/8/21
• Refer: 4/28/21
• Report Pass: 5/20/21
• Engrossed: 6/2/21
• Refer: 6/3/21
• Refer: 6/16/21
• Report Pass: 6/28/21
• Refer: 6/28/21
• Report Pass: 7/6/21
• Refer: 7/6/21
• Refer: 7/15/21

Caption

Office of Emergency Services: tabletop exercises.

Impact

The implications of AB 1071 are significant for California's approach to emergency services. It mandates the convening of diverse stakeholders, including law enforcement, healthcare, and utility providers, to ensure that emergency preparedness plans are not only discussed but also assessed against practical scenarios. The requirement for OES to report on these tabletop exercises will promote accountability and facilitate continuous improvement in disaster readiness. Utilizing federal funding to offset the costs associated with these exercises further emphasizes the state's commitment to effective and sustainable emergency management practices.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1071, introduced by Assembly Member Rodriguez, aims to enhance emergency management through mandatory biennial tabletop exercises facilitated by the Office of Emergency Services (OES). The bill recognizes the need for structured and collaborative emergency preparedness efforts, particularly in the wake of increasing natural and manmade disasters such as wildfires and the COVID-19 pandemic. By mandating participation from various key personnel across government, private, and nonprofit sectors, this bill seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for evaluating emergency response plans under simulated disaster scenarios.

Sentiment

Sentiment around AB 1071 appears largely supportive, recognizing the urgency and importance of thorough disaster preparedness training. Stakeholders generally express approval for proactive measures that enhance the state's ability to respond to crises effectively. However, some concerns may arise regarding resource allocation and the logistics of coordinating such comprehensive exercises across multiple agencies and sectors. Overall, participants acknowledge the necessity of adapting to evolving threats to public safety.

Contention

While AB 1071 is designed to bolster emergency preparedness, potential points of contention may arise concerning the implementation and execution of mandatory participation. Some critics could voice concerns regarding the administrative burden placed on various agencies and the feasibility of conducting extensive tabletop exercises every two years. Additionally, there may be debates on how effectively these exercises can translate into real-world preparedness and the extent to which they address localized needs and capabilities.