SACRAMENTO, CA – Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom’s AB 1832, the 2-1-1 Infrastructure and Emergency Response Act, passed the California State Assembly today with unanimous support on a 72-0 vote and now heads to the Senate. The bill would expand access to 2-1-1 services across California and help more residents connect to local support during emergencies, disasters, and everyday moments of need.
Sponsored by 2-1-1 San Joaquin and United Ways of California, AB 1832 focuses on closing gaps in access, strengthening local 2-1-1 providers, and improving coordination between 2-1-1, emergency response agencies, and community-based organizations. As Chair of the Assembly Emergency Management Committee, Assemblymember Ransom authored the bill to help ensure more Californians have a trusted place to turn before, during, and after a crisis.
“California is one of only three states without full statewide 2-1-1 coverage, with more than a dozen counties having no access. 2-1-1 can play a critical role in providing people with trusted, real-time information during emergencies and disasters such as wildfires, winter storms, and public health crises. AB 1832 addresses these gaps by establishing a statewide 2-1-1 Fund to support core capacity, close coverage gaps, and integrate 2-1-1 into state emergency planning.”
-Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom
In San Joaquin County, local 2-1-1 services handled more than 75,000 calls, texts, and emails in 2024, with most residents seeking help with housing, utilities, and food. Across California, 2-1-1 providers serve as a critical connection point for residents who may not know where else to turn, but many programs continue to rely on inconsistent funding from counties, local governments, and charitable organizations.
“For many residents, 211 is the front door to help,” said Kay Ruhstaller, CEO of the Family Resource Center, which operates 211 in San Joaquin County. “It is where families turn when they don’t know where else to go, and where they can access trusted, real-time information and connections to services that meet their immediate needs. 2-1-1 is not just a referral line; it is critical infrastructure. In addition to the everyday work of connecting people to services, it supports disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.”
AB 1832 would create a statewide 2-1-1 Fund and require the California Office of Emergency Services to support the 2-1-1 Lead Entity and local providers. The bill would help expand service to communities in California that currently lack access and strengthen coordination between 2-1-1, 9-1-1, 9-8-8, and state emergency planning agencies.
