California 2021-2022 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB1388

Introduced
2/19/21  
Introduced
2/19/21  
Refer
3/11/21  
Refer
3/11/21  
Report Pass
3/11/21  
Report Pass
3/11/21  
Refer
3/15/21  
Refer
3/15/21  
Report Pass
4/21/21  
Report Pass
4/21/21  
Refer
4/26/21  
Refer
4/26/21  
Refer
5/19/21  
Refer
5/19/21  

Caption

COVID-19: death data.

Impact

The proposed changes would significantly amend existing laws related to public health data reporting. By requiring detailed geographic breakdowns of COVID-19 fatalities, the state aims to provide granular insights that can inform public health responses and resource allocation. Furthermore, it seeks to highlight and address the disproportionate impact of the virus on low-income communities and communities of color, enhancing the potential for targeted health interventions and equitable vaccine distribution.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1388, introduced by Assembly Member Low, addresses the reporting of COVID-19 death data by mandating the State Department of Public Health to provide this information categorized by ZIP Code on its dashboard. This move is designed to enhance transparency regarding the toll of the pandemic in California, especially given that over 50,000 residents have lost their lives. The bill also dictates that county health departments must align with a standard format to ensure consistency in public reporting on their own websites.

Sentiment

The sentiment around AB 1388 is largely supportive, particularly from public health advocates who see it as a necessary measure for accountability and informed decision-making. However, concerns have been raised about compliance with privacy standards and how accurately the data reflects the impact on marginalized communities. Proponents argue that with transparency comes the opportunity for improved community health responses, while skeptics point out the challenges of maintaining privacy in public health data.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between transparency and privacy. While proponents advocate for more robust data reporting to foster accountability, opponents worry that detailed ZIP Code data could inadvertently expose vulnerable populations or violate privacy laws. Concerns were also voiced about whether the implementation of these measures will be adequately funded and resourced to ensure timely and accurate reporting.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA AB392

Multicultural health.

CA AB1462

Veteran overdose deaths.

CA AB3106

School employees: COVID-19 cases: protections.

CA AB1799

Child abuse: reporting.

CA SB908

Fentanyl: child deaths.

CA AB269

Public health: COVID-19 testing and dispensing sites.

CA SB989

Domestic violence: deaths.

CA SB1338

Education finance: emergencies: apportionments: COVID-19: Culver City Unified School District.

CA AB364

Street furniture data: statewide integrated data platform.

CA SB1388

Education finance: community colleges: general fund balance.

Similar Bills

CA AB1220

Developmental services: denials of services and notices of actions.

CA SB1043

Short-term residential therapeutic programs: dashboard: seclusion or behavioral restraints.

CA SB299

Personal information: minors: internet website: connected devices.

CA AB422

High-speed rail: performance measurement dashboards.

CA SB1373

Water data dashboard.

CA AB1475

Transportation Agency: performance dashboard.

CA SB1353

Homeless population census information: collection and reporting.

CA AB470

Medi-Cal: specialty mental health services: performance outcome reports.