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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Donald W. Rowe, PhD, University at Buffalo, School of Public Health and Health Professions, 3435 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14214, 716-829-3434, dwrowe@buffalo.edu

Abstract: The tragedy of 9/11 changed public health permanently. Public health was now expected to play a major role in responding to man-made and natural disasters. During 2002 the New York State Senate held hearings to assess the capacity and limitations of first responders in meeting their new obligations. The Senate asked for specific recommendations that would enhance integrated timely response. Hospitals, Emergency Medical Services, Police, Fire and Public Health were invited to present testimony. Effective, and timely emergency preparedness response was essential. Unlike police and fire services which have specific laws that provide the statutory authority to cross political boundaries, public health did not. Recommendations were made which included the need for legislation that would provide the statutory authority for public health to respond to any man made or natural disaster. As a result of this testimony, bills S.1692 and A.6938 were drafted. On September 26th, 2003, the governor signed the bills and created Chapter 283 of the laws of 2003. In signing the bill the governor stated “By providing health officials with the ability to pool resources with nearby counties, this law will help to improve health response capabilities, save lives, reduce cost and improve efficiency.”

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session the participant will be able to

• Describe the evolution of the legislation 2.Identify critical partners 3.Understand the need and importance of the legislation 4.Articulate the benefits of public health emergency preparedness legislation
• Create their own legislative strategy

Keywords: Legislative, Bioterrorism

Related Web page: www.senate.state.ny.us

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered