Senate subcommittee advances bill to create school emergency response mapping program

AB 598, authored by Assemblymember Gibson, would establish a school emergency response mapping data program so first responders have accurate, standardized, and accessible digital maps of school facilities.

Gibson told the committee the statewide program would let emergency personnel find precise locations on campus during an incident, shortening response times. He said the bill includes amendments to protect student data and to coordinate maps with 9‑1‑1 operators.

Joe Devine of Platinum Advisors, testifying for the sponsor Critical Response Group, described gaps in existing school blueprints and cited Uvalde and Sandy Hook as examples where inaccurate or unavailable floor plans hindered response. Devine said a Federal Communications Commission analysis shows room‑level mapping can improve response times by 4 to 17 minutes.

The proposal drew support from the Los Angeles County Office of Education and a range of public safety advocates, and no witnesses registered opposition during the hearing. Senator Archuleta moved the bill; the subcommittee’s roll call later advanced AB 598 to the Appropriations Committee. The final committee tally recorded 14 ayes and 0 no votes.