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AB 369

Emergency services: liability.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Michelle Rodriguez

California law AB 369 expands liability protections for emergency services personnel responding to calls, shielding responders from certain lawsuits while potentially limiting remedies for injured parties.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 33, Statutes of 2025.
#emergencyservices #liability
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Bill Summary · AB 369

Legislative bill overview

AB 369 establishes new liability protections and standards for California emergency services personnel and agencies responding to calls for assistance. The bill, sponsored by Michelle Rodriguez, was signed into law on July 14, 2025, and addresses legal exposure for emergency responders in specified circumstances.

Why is this important

Emergency services operate in high-pressure, unpredictable situations where liability concerns can affect response times, personnel recruitment, and public safety outcomes. This legislation directly impacts how firefighters, paramedics, police, and other first responders can be sued and what legal protections they receive, which influences both their operational decisions and the willingness of qualified individuals to enter these professions.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of immunity: The specific definition of what emergency actions qualify for liability protection versus what remains actionable is likely contested, with advocates for injured parties arguing protections are too broad and emergency services arguing they're insufficient
  • Accountability concerns: Expanded liability shields may reduce incentives for rigorous training, oversight, and accountability mechanisms, raising questions about whether public safety actually improves or if problematic responses become harder to address
  • Injured parties' remedies: Individuals harmed by emergency service responses may face reduced legal recourse options, creating fairness questions about who bears the costs of emergency operations and how victims of negligent response can seek compensation

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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