Government Code section 8669.84
(a)
Other than in a criminal proceeding, an EMS personnel, whether or not a party to an action, has a right to refuse to disclose, and to prevent another from disclosing, a confidential communication between the EMS personnel and a peer support team member made while the peer support team member was providing peer support services, or a confidential communication made to a crisis hotline or crisis referral service.(b)
Notwithstanding subdivision (a), a confidential communication may be disclosed under the following circumstances:(1)
To refer an EMS personnel to receive crisis referral services by a peer support team member.(2)
During a consultation between two peer support team members.(3)
If the peer support team member reasonably believes that disclosure is necessary to prevent death, substantial bodily harm, or commission of a crime.(4)
If the EMS personnel expressly agrees in writing that the confidential communication may be disclosed.(5)
If the disclosure is made pursuant to a court order in a civil proceeding.(6)
In a criminal proceeding.(7)
If otherwise required by law.(c)
Notwithstanding subdivision (a), a crisis hotline or crisis referral service may disclose confidential information communicated by an EMS personnel to prevent reasonably certain death, substantial bodily harm, or commission of a crime.(d)
This section does not limit an obligation of a mandated reporter to report instances of abuse as required by law, including as required by Section 11166 of the Penal Code.
Source:
Section 8669.84, https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=GOV§ionNum=8669.84. (updated Jan. 1, 2025; accessed Dec. 29, 2025).
