GPHA has joined the effort to include state and local public health department employees in jobs legislation. GPHA is encouraging members to electronically sign a letter to Senate Majority Leader Reid (D-NV) and Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA), Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee. The letter requests Senate action to address job losses and budget cuts in the public health sector.

According to the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO):

In 2008–2009, state and local health departments (LHDs) lost 25,500 jobs, or approximately 15 percent of their workforce. Tens of thousands of other public health professionals have been forced to work reduced hours, at a time when demands on the public health sector are increasing.

Visit the NACCHO website to read the letter and submit your signature.