The (Un?)intended Consequences Of COVID-19-Era Judicial Decisions And New Public Health-Related Laws

A new article in Health Affairs explains that during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous state bills were introduced to limit public health officials' legal powers. Although most did not become law, at least 25 states enacted legislation reducing these officials' authority. Judicial decisions also increasingly constrained public health powers. These kinds of changes may hinder officials' ability to respond to future health emergencies and manage routine health threats like foodborne illnesses or tuberculosis.

The article shows how research has identified 191 enacted bills aimed at limiting public health authority across 43 states and the District of Columbia. Additionally, courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court, have ruled against public health measures, raising concerns about the future effectiveness of health agencies. Read the full article in Health Affairs here.