Sunday, September 14, 2025

Pasadena Lawmaker’s Wildfire Trauma Bill Clears Legislature, Heads to Governor

Assemblymember John Harabedian (l) and Governor Gavin Newsom (r)

Legislation co-authored by Assemblymember John Harabedian, who represents Pasadena, to expand mental health coverage for wildfire survivors has passed both chambers of the California Legislature and now awaits action from Gov. Gavin Newsom.

AB 1032, known as the Wildfire Trauma Recovery and Resiliency Act, mandates that insurers provide up to 12 additional behavioral health visits for residents in wildfire disaster zones, regardless of whether providers are in-network. The bill also prohibits utilization review denials for these services and would take effect immediately upon the governor’s signature.

Harabedian, a Democrat whose district includes Pasadena, announced the bill’s passage Friday in a statement. “Wildfire survivors deserve more than help rebuilding their homes: they deserve help rebuilding their lives,” he said. “AB 1032 ensures that families facing the long-term trauma of wildfire disasters can access the mental health care they urgently need.”

The legislation was co-authored by Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Salinas), who praised Harabedian’s leadership in a separate statement. “I am grateful to Assemblymember Harabedian for his leadership as Angelenos recover and rebuild, and for ensuring wildfire victims in Southern California and across our state can access the care they need,” Rivas said.

The bill’s provisions are designed to address gaps in behavioral health access following wildfire emergencies, which have increasingly affected communities across California, including areas near Pasadena and the San Gabriel foothills.

Gov. Newsom has until Oct. 13 to sign or veto the measure.