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California Bill Aims to Accelerate Earthquake Preparedness

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. -aims-to-accelerate-earthquake-preparedness.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 11:49 GMT by San Francisco Chronicle
      Locales: California, Washington, Oregon, UNITED STATES

SACRAMENTO - With the persistent threat of a major earthquake hanging over the Golden State, a new bill is pushing for a significant overhaul and acceleration of California's earthquake preparedness efforts. Assembly Bill 2068, introduced by Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) on Thursday, aims to proactively address the looming risk of a catastrophic seismic event and bolster the state's response capabilities.

The bill focuses on two crucial areas: enhanced geological hazard mapping and a widespread public awareness campaign. Specifically, AB 2068 mandates the State Geological Survey to update its existing maps detailing areas particularly vulnerable to liquefaction and landslides, with a deadline of 2026. These maps are vital for identifying communities at highest risk and informing land-use planning, building codes, and emergency response strategies.

Liquefaction, a phenomenon where earthquake shaking turns solid ground into a fluid-like substance, poses a severe threat to structures built on unstable soil. Similarly, areas prone to landslides are vulnerable to devastating debris flows triggered by seismic activity. Updated, high-resolution hazard maps are essential for mitigating these risks, but have often lagged behind population growth and development.

Beyond mapping, AB 2068 recognizes the critical role of public awareness in minimizing earthquake casualties and damage. The bill calls for the State Geological Survey to develop and implement a comprehensive public awareness campaign designed to educate residents on earthquake preparedness measures. This includes, but isn't limited to, creating and distributing information on how to prepare emergency kits, develop family communication plans, secure homes against shaking, and understand appropriate responses during and after an earthquake.

"The threat of a major earthquake is real and ever-present in California," stated Assemblymember Lowenthal. "This bill would ensure that we are prepared to respond to a catastrophic event, and that we have done everything in our power to protect the lives and livelihoods of our residents."

A Growing Sense of Urgency

The introduction of AB 2068 comes amidst growing scientific concern regarding the probability of a major earthquake striking California in the near future. Experts point to the ongoing strain on the San Andreas Fault, as well as other potentially active fault lines throughout the state, as indicators of increasing seismic risk. The last truly significant earthquake to hit California was the 1994 Northridge quake, and many seismologists believe the state is overdue for another large event.

While California has made strides in earthquake preparedness since then, including the implementation of stringent building codes designed to withstand shaking, challenges remain. Many older buildings are not retrofitted to meet modern standards, and a significant portion of the population remains unprepared for a major earthquake.

Furthermore, the state's infrastructure, including bridges, highways, and utility systems, is vulnerable to damage from seismic activity. Repairing and replacing damaged infrastructure after a major earthquake would be a massive undertaking, potentially disrupting essential services for months or even years.

Beyond the Bill: A Holistic Approach to Earthquake Resilience

While AB 2068 represents an important step forward, experts emphasize that comprehensive earthquake resilience requires a multifaceted approach. This includes investing in early warning systems like ShakeAlert, which can provide seconds of notice before strong shaking arrives, allowing people to take protective actions. It also necessitates strengthening building codes, promoting retrofitting of vulnerable structures, and ensuring that emergency responders have the resources and training they need to effectively respond to a disaster.

Community-level preparedness is also crucial. Local governments and community organizations should work together to develop and implement disaster preparedness plans, conduct drills and exercises, and educate residents about earthquake risks and mitigation measures.

The bill is expected to be debated and potentially amended in committee over the coming weeks. Its success will depend on securing bipartisan support and adequate funding. However, with the stakes so high, there is a growing consensus that proactive earthquake preparedness is not just a matter of public safety, but also a matter of economic stability and long-term sustainability for the state of California. The hope is that AB 2068 will serve as a catalyst for a renewed commitment to building a more earthquake-resilient future.