The Joint Legislative Audit and Joint Legislative Committee on Emergency Management convened on March 5, 2025, to address critical issues surrounding disaster response and recovery efforts in California, particularly in light of recent wildfires affecting Los Angeles.

The meeting opened with discussions on the ongoing recovery efforts from the devastating wildfires. A representative highlighted the work of the Priority Populations Task Force, which continues to support thousands of individuals and families impacted by the disasters. The task force is actively documenting new best practices to improve accessibility and support at disaster recovery centers.

As the meeting progressed, concerns were raised regarding the effectiveness of past legislative actions taken after the wildfires of 2017 and 2018. Despite the implementation of recommendations by the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), recent fires have revealed significant gaps in the response, particularly for vulnerable populations, including individuals with disabilities. A poignant account was shared about a father and son who perished during the Eaton Fire, underscoring the tragic consequences of inadequate evacuation support for those with functional needs.

The discussion shifted to questioning the auditor about the effectiveness of current training and preparedness measures instituted by Cal OES. Lawmakers expressed skepticism about whether these initiatives are truly benefiting the populations they aim to protect, given the disproportionate impact of the recent fires on vulnerable communities.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further investigate these issues and improve disaster response strategies to ensure that all Californians, especially those in priority populations, receive the support they need during emergencies. The committee plans to continue its work in the coming months to address these critical challenges and enhance the state's emergency management framework.