Advocates Rally at State Capitol to Demand Heat Protections for Incarcerated People; More Funding for DV Survivors

May 14, 2026

California Assemblymember Mike Gipson has introduced the "Adrienne Act" (AB 2499) following the July 2024 heat-related death of Adrienne Boulware, an incarcerated woman at Central California Women's Facility. The legislation would mandate that California's Department of Corrections establish a pilot program by 2027 to address extreme heat in state prisons and develop long-term plans for installing HVAC systems and shade structures. The bill passed the Assembly Public Safety Committee unanimously but awaits fiscal review in the Appropriations Committee.

Who is affected

Adrienne Boulware (deceased) and her family, including daughter Michela Nelson
Incarcerated individuals in California state prisons, particularly those in facilities lacking adequate cooling systems
Survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and human trafficking
Service providers and organizations offering emergency shelter, counseling, and support services for crime survivors
Jazz LedBetter and other survivors advocating for support services

What action is being taken

AB 2499 is moving through the legislative process, having been referred to the Assembly Appropriations Committee and placed in the Suspense File for fiscal assessment
Advocates are rallying at the State Capitol to urge lawmakers to include funding in the state budget for domestic violence and sexual assault services
The Survivors Speak California Rally (a three-day event organized by Californians for Safety and Justice) is taking place at the State Capitol

Why it matters

This legislation addresses a fundamental human rights issue, as incarcerated individuals are experiencing dangerous conditions with temperatures exceeding 90 degrees in facilities with inadequate ventilation. The disparity is particularly significant because state workers and lawmakers have air conditioning and proper ventilation, while those in state custody do not receive the same protections. Additionally, the sharp decline in federal VOCA funding threatens essential services for crime survivors, potentially forcing victims to remain in dangerous situations without access to trauma-informed care, emergency shelter, and counseling services needed for recovery.

What's next

CDCR would be required to establish a pilot program addressing extreme heat in at least three prisons in different climate zones by July 1, 2027 (if the bill passes)
CDCR would need to develop a long-term plan for installing HVAC systems and shade structures in existing facilities (if the bill passes)
The Assembly Appropriations Committee will assess the fiscal impact of AB 2499 before advancing it further

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint