California Assembly Bill AB662

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/12/21
• Refer: 3/25/21
• Report Pass: 3/25/21
• Refer: 3/26/21
• Report Pass: 4/8/21
• Refer: 4/12/21
• Report Pass: 4/21/21
• Refer: 4/21/21
• Refer: 4/22/21
• Report Pass: 4/27/21
• Refer: 4/29/21
• Refer: 5/12/21
• Report Pass: 5/20/21
• Engrossed: 1/24/22
• Refer: 1/25/22
• Refer: 5/4/22
• Report Pass: 5/9/22
• Refer: 5/9/22
• Refer: 5/18/22
• Report Pass: 6/2/22
• Refer: 6/2/22
• Refer: 6/6/22
• Refer: 6/8/22
• Report Pass: 6/29/22
• Refer: 6/29/22
• Refer: 8/2/22
• Report Pass: 8/11/22
• Refer: 8/24/22
• Enrolled: 8/31/22
• Chaptered: 9/27/22
• Passed: 9/27/22

Caption

State Fire Marshal and Emergency Medical Services Authority: peer-to-peer suicide prevention.

Impact

The legislation introduces critical amendments to the Health and Safety Code, specifically by adding Sections 1797.119 and 13159.6. By coordinating with the California Firefighter Joint Apprenticeship Program, the bill ensures effective development and dissemination of the curriculum content criteria for peer-to-peer suicide prevention training. Local Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agencies are also included in the implementation framework, ensuring that the criteria are accessible to all relevant employers, which may ultimately foster a more supportive work environment within emergency services.

Summary

Assembly Bill 662, titled 'State Fire Marshal and Emergency Medical Services Authority: peer-to-peer suicide prevention', aims to enhance mental health support for first responders in California. The bill mandates the State Fire Marshal to establish additional training standards that include peer-to-peer suicide prevention programming. This initiative emerges from the recognition of the high mental health challenges faced by firefighters and emergency medical personnel, encouraging a supportive culture through structured training and resources.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment around AB 662 appears to be positive, as it addresses a significant concern regarding mental health in high-stress professions. Advocacy for mental health initiatives is gaining traction, making this bill a reflective piece of legislation catering to the evolving needs of emergency response personnel. Legislators and mental health advocates are generally supportive, emphasizing the need for mental well-being and peer support mechanisms among firefighters and EMS responders.

Contention

While the bill has widespread support, there is contention regarding the implementation costs and the potential burden it may impose on local EMS agencies. The California Constitution's provisions for reimbursement of mandated costs underscore an ongoing discussion about state vs. local funding responsibilities. Therefore, the bill's effect on budget appropriations and local autonomy could become focal points of debate as it progresses through legislative review.