After the recent devastating natural disasters in Santa Barbara County, State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson has introduced legislation to make emergency planning systems more inclusive for the diverse range of local residents.
Senate Bill 160 will expand emergency planning and alert systems in order to communicate with all residents in case of an emergency. Differences in language among residents is emphasized in the bill, focusing on the need for improved translation and interpretation services within the emergency alert network and evacuation procedures. Additionally, the bill states the need for diverse cultural groups to be represented during the emergency planning process.
“With more than 220 languages spoken in California," Jackson commented, "and 44 percent of our residents speaking a language other than English at home, we must do everything we can to ensure our emergency plans incorporate the diverse needs of all residents.”