POLICY

The importance of policy as a tool for prevention

A policy defines a public issue, influences how decisions are made, where and how money is spent and supports community actions. Policies to promote healthy eating and physical activity can influence community institutions and the public by providing realistic options for people to access healthy, affordable foods and beverages as well as safe places to be active.

Primary prevention involves taking action to prevent problems from occurring before the onset of symptoms. It focuses on environmental or systemic changes that are aimed at entire populations, such as an entire community, rather than treating one individual at a time. Public policy is a strong tool for primary prevention because policy shapes the environment in which we live, work and play. Policy decisions in diverse sectors including transportation, agriculture, parks and recreation, environment, housing, and education all shape our environments and reinforce behavioral norms. Federal, state and local policies can provide a healthy balance of options in our schools, communities and workplaces.

Local Policy   -   State Policy   -   Federal Policy

Local Policy

In diverse disciplines, from tobacco use prevention to violence prevention, local policy has been a catalyst for policy adoption and implementation in other local jurisdictions, as well as an impetus for state and federal change. 

Tools

• Eleven Reasons for Local Policy Development (PDF)

• Steps for advancing local policy (PDF)

•   ENACT Local Policy Database

State Policy 

California has made great strides, enacting state-level policies to improve student nutrition and safe routes to school. Learn more about the bills in the coming 2008 State Legislative Session that seek to improve the health and nutrition of Californians.

Tools

• California Legislative Policy Database (CA Legislation)

• National Conference of State Legislatures (Other States)

Federal Policy

• Senate
• Congress

2008 Federal Legislation

2008 Transportation Equity Act

Advocates are currently gearing up for the reauthorization of the federal transportation bill. Transportation policy and funding at the federal, state, and local level determine transportation patterns and subsequently have a number of impacts on health.  Furthermore, particular populations have historically been and continue to be disparately affected by the health impacts of transportation policies.

2007 Federal Legislation

2007 Farm Bill

The 2007 Farm Bill is an opportunity for health advocates to show their support for policies that improve nutrition, increase access to healthy foods, and help to protect people from chronic disease.

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Legislative Hearing on Diabetes and Health Disparities

Prevention Institute testified at the CA legislative hearing, Diabetes and Health Disparities: Building a Policy Agenda. Read PI's testimony or download the presentation.

Troubled by Governor’s Inaction

California Government Leaders  and Advocates Concerned Over Status of Implementation of Governor’s Obesity Prevention Plan

2008 CA State Legislative Session

Tools, Tips and How-To

Breaking policy news, policy briefs and testimonials, and organizations and coalitions dedicated to fostering a healthy eating and active living environment through policy change.

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