Emergency Response Transparency and Abandonment Notification Act of 2025

A county initiative that would require Los Angeles emergency agencies to alert the public within 30 minutes whenever firefighters or first responders are ordered to “stand down” during a fire or other major disaster.

Summary:
Prompted by the January 7 2025 Palisades Fire, when the Los Angeles Fire Department reportedly halted structure protection without notifying residents, this petition seeks adoption of the Emergency Response Transparency and Abandonment Notification Act of 2025. The measure directs all fire and emergency agencies operating in Los Angeles County to issue rapid, multi-channel alerts (Wireless Emergency Alerts, reverse-911, news, official social media, etc.) within 30 minutes of any “stand down” order. Each alert must specify the affected area, the issuing agency, the time and reason for withdrawal, and recommended actions for the public. The ordinance further mandates after-action reports, whistle-blower protection, and administrative review for non-compliance. Supporters argue that real-time transparency will let residents evacuate sooner, safeguard lives, pets, and property, and restore trust in disaster response.

Petition:
https://www.change.org/p/emergency-response-transparency-and-abandonment-notification-act-of-2025