Thursday, August 13 | Volume 40 No.22

Westsidestory Newspaper

Asm. Elhawary “Hopes” Bill Barring Police from Blocking Emergency Medical Care Will Advance to Floor for Vote

A bill Assemblymember Sade Elhawary (D- Los Angeles) authored would make it illegal for law enforcement officers to deny or delay emergency medical care for people under their control when it is safe to provide treatment. Assembly Bill (AB) 2318, known as the En suring Accountability After Tragedies Act, was placed on the Senate Appropriations Commit tee’s Suspense File on Aug. 3 because of its projected cost to the state. The bill would amend Section 832.11 of the California Penal Code to prohibit officers from denying, delaying, obstructing or failing to fa cilitate medical care when a medical profes sional is present or has been requested and is willing to help. The requirement would apply when providing access is safe and reasonable. If an officer denies or delays care when a medical professional is available, the officer or law enforcement agency would have to docu ment the reason within 72 hours. Officers who violate the law could face disciplinary action, including suspension or termination. Elhawary said the bill was prompted by sev eral high-profile cases in which authorities allegedly blocked or delayed medical treat ment for injured people, including the Jan.7, shooting death of Renee Nicole Good in Min

By Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media

See "Asm Elhawary..." page 8

Rallying Around Sisters

P E R I N A T A L E Q U I T Y I N S A N B E R N A R D I N O C O U N T Y In California, about one in every ten babies is born too early. But for Black women, the risk of giving birth early— called preterm birth—are nearly twice as high. Early births can mean more health risks for both the baby and the mother.

That’s why the Black Infant Health (BIH) program is such a vital resource in our community.

BIH recognizes that racism, economic stress, and where you live can all affect a mother’s health and her baby’s chance of survival.

The program offers a free, culturally supportive program for Black and African American women. If you're a Black woman who is pregnant or has had a baby in the last six months, BIH is for you, regardless of your income. Program participants can earn essentials like diapers, clothes, baby supplies, and safe sleep supplies.

BIH is more than just classes. It’s a community where you can build friendships, gain confidence, and feel seen and heard by someone that cares about you. If you or someone you know is pregnant or has a newborn, reach out. These programs are free, supportive, and grounded in love, respect, and culture.

Together, we can build healthy beginnings for Black families. For more information, visit dph.sbcounty.gov/bih or call 844-352-3985.