Legislative Priorities

 GASOPHE’s Legislative Priorities 2012:

Support a strengthened public health system in Georgia

The establishment of the 2011 Independent Department provides Georgia with a more efficient public health system statewide.  With an increased need for services, the new cost effective Department of Public Health will meet critical needs and produce better health outcomes for our state. The new Department reports directly to the Governor.

Support increased tax on cigarettes to $1 per pack

Research shows that increasing Georgia’s tobacco tax by $1 could bring in millions of dollars in federal funding and $350 million in state revenue.  Georgia’s tobacco tax ranks 48th in the nation.  Tobacco taxes would help save over $2 billion in healthcare costs and increase health by reducing adult and youth smoking in Georgia.      

Support funding and expansion for a statewide trauma system

Georgia’s trauma death rate is 20% higher than the national average.  The lack of a statewide trauma system is a barrier to providing trauma care to citizens.  An expanded trauma care network would provide access to trauma care and could save 700 lives per year.

Support the Affordable Care Act including the Prevention and Public Health Fund

Several components of the Affordable Care Act are being implemented at the state level.  Georgia health care consumers are being presented numerous benefits by the ACA.  GASOPHE will continue to monitor legislation and support legislation activities specific to establishing a taskforce to oversee the implementation in Georgia.

GASOPHE supports the following National Legislative Priorities for 2012: