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Commission introduces peer‑support resolution to expand firefighters’ mental‑health services
Summary
Commissioner Joe Alioto Veronese presented a first reading of a peer‑support resolution to formalize and expand the department’s stress unit into a peer‑support program with peer managers, station-level peer members, training standards and consideration of a psychologist (contracted or full-time). The Chief supported the effort; commissioners asked for timeline and budget clarifications.
Commissioner Joe Alioto Veronese presented a proposed peer‑support resolution at the Fire Commission’s June 13 meeting that seeks to broaden the department’s existing stress unit into a more formal peer‑support program.
Veronese said the proposal consolidates a number of existing general orders and models practices used by other California agencies. “The point of the resolution is to give the chief some direction to come up with what that unit looks like on her own after she’s taken the time to consult with the professionals that are in this particular industry,” he said, describing a 180‑day window for an initial plan and recommended staff projections.
The draft resolution calls for peer‑support managers, station‑based peer members who would receive training in critical‑incident and peer‑support techniques, and consideration of a contracted or a full‑time psychologist to consult on post‑traumatic stress and related concerns. The draft also references peer‑support privilege language drawn from existing departmental orders and state legislative language (Assembly Bill referenced in the presentation) to encourage members to seek help without fear of punitive use of disclosures.
Chief Joanne Hayes White said the department has maintained a stress unit for years and praised the resolution’s aim to strengthen support and prevention. She confirmed an ongoing stress‑unit staffing presence (two members currently assigned full time) and said leadership will meet with unit personnel for feedback. “These are stressful positions … to be able to have a unit which we’ve had for a long time, in place, is important,” the chief said.
Commissioners asked for clarity on scope, budgeting and whether the city’s police department resources could be shared. Veronese and Chief Hayes White said the resolution is intended to provide guidance rather than to prescribe final staffing levels or funding; the chief would consult with experts and return with a recommended structure. The resolution is not scheduled for a vote at this meeting and was introduced for review and further comment.
Commissioners urged a cautious approach to timelines and costs—one commissioner noted that medical specialists and psychologists carry high salary impacts—and asked for continued dialogue with the chief and staff. Several commissioners expressed support for the proposal’s goal of early detection and prevention among members.
