S.1489 - Anti-Racism in Public Health Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1489, the Anti-Racism in Public Health Act of 2025, aims to address structural racism and police violence as public health issues. The bill proposes amending the Public Health Service Act to establish a National Center on Antiracism and Health within the CDC. This center would conduct research, collect data, and develop interventions to dismantle racist mechanisms in healthcare and other systems affecting health and well-being.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would lead to increased funding and resources dedicated to researching and addressing the public health impacts of racism and police violence. It would also mandate the collection and dissemination of data related to these issues, potentially informing policy changes and interventions. The establishment of regional centers of excellence and a federal advisory committee could foster collaboration and expertise in antiracism efforts.
Potential Benefits
- Increased research and data collection on the public health impacts of racism and police violence.
- Development of interventions to dismantle racist mechanisms in healthcare and other systems.
- Establishment of regional centers of excellence in antiracism.
- Improved public awareness and education on the impacts of structural racism.
- Enhanced coordination among federal agencies and community organizations.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for political polarization and opposition to the bill's focus on race.
- Concerns about the definition and application of "antiracism".
- Risk of inefficient spending or ineffective programs.
- Possible challenges in data collection and analysis related to sensitive topics.
- Potential for mission creep or overreach by the National Center on Antiracism and Health.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's focus on public health falls under the general welfare clause of the Constitution (Preamble). The establishment of research centers and data collection efforts aligns with the government's role in promoting the general welfare. However, some may argue that the bill's focus on race could raise equal protection concerns under the Fourteenth Amendment, requiring careful consideration to ensure that interventions are narrowly tailored and do not discriminate.
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).