Kay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Act
Summary
The Kay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Act aims to reauthorize and extend programs related to vector-borne diseases, particularly those transmitted by ticks. It amends the Public Health Service Act to extend the authorization of the National Strategy and Regional Centers of Excellence in Vector-Borne Disease and enhanced support to assist health departments in addressing these diseases. The bill seeks to continue these programs from 2026 through 2030.
Expected Effects
This reauthorization will allow for the continuation of research, prevention, and public health initiatives related to tick-borne diseases. It ensures that funding and resources remain available to support ongoing efforts to combat these diseases. The programs will continue to operate under the amended guidelines, with some adjustments to the advisory groups involved.
Potential Benefits
- Continued funding for research into tick-borne diseases.
- Support for regional centers of excellence focused on vector-borne diseases.
- Enhanced assistance to health departments in addressing and managing these diseases.
- Improved public health outcomes through better prevention and treatment strategies.
- Ensuring the continuation of critical public health programs.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for funding to be diverted from other public health priorities.
- The act does not introduce new programs or initiatives, only reauthorizes existing ones, potentially missing opportunities for innovation.
- Reliance on existing strategies may not be sufficient to address evolving challenges in vector-borne disease control.
- The amendment to subsection (b) removes specific reference to the Tick-Borne Disease Working Group, potentially reducing focus on tick-borne diseases.
- No specific provisions for addressing the social determinants of health related to tick-borne diseases.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the constitutional mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). Congress has the power to legislate on matters related to public health under the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), as diseases can impact interstate commerce. The reauthorization of these programs falls within the scope of Congress's enumerated powers.
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).