Kay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Act
Summary
The Kay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Act aims to extend funding and support for programs addressing vector-borne diseases, particularly those transmitted by ticks. It reauthorizes key sections of the Public Health Service Act related to national strategies, regional centers of excellence, and assistance to health departments.
The bill specifically amends sections 317U and 2822(c) of the Public Health Service Act to extend the authorization of these programs through 2030. It also refines the language regarding collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
This reauthorization seeks to ensure continued efforts in research, prevention, and treatment of tick-borne illnesses, impacting public health initiatives across the nation.
Expected Effects
The reauthorization will allow existing programs focused on tick-borne diseases to continue operating through 2030, providing sustained funding and support.
This includes maintaining national strategies, regional centers of excellence, and enhanced support for health departments. The changes in language regarding stakeholder collaboration may also influence how these programs are implemented.
Ultimately, the Act aims to strengthen the nation's response to the growing threat of tick-borne illnesses and improve public health outcomes.
Potential Benefits
- Continued funding for research and prevention of tick-borne diseases.
- Support for regional centers of excellence in vector-borne disease research.
- Enhanced assistance to health departments for addressing vector-borne diseases.
- Improved national strategy for combating tick-borne illnesses.
- Potential for better public health outcomes related to tick-borne diseases.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- The Act primarily focuses on reauthorization, so it may not address emerging challenges or new approaches to combating tick-borne diseases.
- The Act does not create new programs or initiatives, potentially limiting its impact.
- The Act's effectiveness depends on the actual allocation of funds and the implementation of the programs by relevant agencies.
- There is no guarantee that the reauthorized programs will be more effective than the previous iterations.
- The Act may not address the underlying environmental factors contributing to the spread of tick-borne diseases.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act falls under the purview of Congress's power to provide for the general welfare of the United States, as outlined in the Preamble of the Constitution. Specifically, it relates to public health, which is a legitimate area for federal action.
Furthermore, Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts, and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. This Act utilizes federal funds to address a public health concern, aligning with this constitutional provision.
There are no apparent conflicts with individual liberties or states' rights, as the Act focuses on research, prevention, and treatment of diseases, which are generally accepted as within the federal government's purview.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).