California Attorney General Rob Bonta today issued a statewide guidance letter to local jurisdictions reminding them of their obligations under federal and state disability access laws to ensure that people with disabilities have meaningful access to emergency preparedness, response, and recovery. The guidance, developed by the California Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Civil Rights Enforcement Section through its Disability Rights Bureau, makes clear that inclusive emergency planning is a legal requirement that must be built into how local governments prepare for and respond to disasters.

“Every Californian deserves to know that their government has a plan for them — especially in moments of crisis. California’s local jurisdictions have a legal obligation to integrate the needs of people with disabilities into all phases of emergency management — preparedness, response, and recovery. Today my office is releasing guidance to remind local jurisdictions of their legal obligations to their residents with disabilities and reaffirm California’s longstanding commitment to disability rights.” – AG Bonta