Harabedian Advances Bill To Expand Mental Health Support For Wildfire Victims

Assemblymember John Harabedian (D-Pasadena) and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Salinas) advanced legislation this week aimed at addressing the growing behavioral health needs of Californians impacted by wildfires.

The legislation comes in the wake of wildfires like the 2024 Eaton Fire, which led to the deaths of 18 people, destroyed more than 9,000 structures, scorched over 14,000 acres, forced evacuations, and left lasting trauma in Altadena and Pasadena. Mental health professionals and emergency response teams have reported a sharp increase in anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms in the months following the disaster.

“My community members are witnessing a 62% surge of all calls related to mental and behavioral health needs coming from Southern California as a result of the wildfires,” said Harabedian. “Alongside Speaker Rivas, I am committed to addressing these urgent needs by ensuring equitable access to mental health care and providing avenues for long-term recovery through expert support.”

Assembly Bill 1032 would require health care plans and insurers to cover up to 12 additional annual visits with a licensed behavioral health provider — beyond a patient’s existing in-network access — for up to a year following the end of a declared emergency. The bill is designed to bolster long-term recovery efforts in communities affected by wildfire disasters, particularly in Southern California.

AB 1032 is scheduled to be heard by a Senate policy committee this summer.

Speaker Rivas echoed the urgency, stating, “As Californians recover from the devastating impacts of wildfires, we have a duty to ensure they’re supported, including by access to behavioral health care. This bill reflects our broader commitment to care, recovery and resilience.”