H.R.1715 - Public Health Funding Restoration Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1715, the Public Health Funding Restoration Act, aims to fully fund the Prevention and Public Health Fund by amending Section 4002(b) of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The bill proposes restoring the fund to $2,000,000,000 annually, starting in fiscal year 2026. The bill emphasizes the importance of prevention in the U.S. healthcare system and addresses cuts to public health funding.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would increase funding for various public health initiatives, including disease prevention, immunizations, and community-based programs. This could lead to improved public health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs in the long term. It would also provide states and localities with more resources to respond to public health threats.
Potential Benefits
- Increased funding for prevention programs, leading to better public health outcomes.
- Strengthened state and local health departments' ability to respond to public health threats.
- Reduced healthcare costs through preventative measures.
- Support for evidence-based investments in areas like tobacco cessation, nutrition, and mental health.
- Enhanced immunization programs and epidemiology capabilities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased government spending, potentially contributing to budget deficits.
- Potential for inefficient allocation of funds if programs are not properly managed.
- Possible political disagreements over the allocation of funds among different programs and states.
- Risk of funds being used for programs with limited evidence of effectiveness.
- May face opposition from those who prioritize other areas of government spending.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). Congress has the power to tax and spend for the general welfare of the United States. The bill's focus on public health aligns with this principle. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1, 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.
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).