Rep. Doris Matsui Introduces Legislation to Revitalize Declining Public Health Workforce

Press Release

Today, Rep. Doris Matsui (CA-05) introduced the Public Health Preparedness Workforce Development Act to address the critical and growing shortage of public workers in America. The public health workforce is responsible for some of the most important tasks protecting the lives of ordinary Americans: managing the health system's response to biological and chemical attacks, fighting food-borne illnesses, preventing the spread of communicable diseases and pandemics, and assisting communities in preparing for disasters.

"This vital cache of workers helps keep Sacramento—and communities across the nation—safe and secure. In Sacramento, we are keenly aware of the need to be vigilant in our efforts to prepare for potential emergencies. My legislation will ensure that we build an adequately trained, robust workforce," said Rep. Matsui.

Rep. Matsui became aware of the shortfall of the public health workforce when she met with constituents, who informed her that California was lacking enough Public Health Lab professionals. Upon further investigation, Rep. Matsui found that these shortages extended to the entire field, in California and across the nation.

Despite the essential nature of this workforce, the number of public health employees is not keeping up with the national need. An aging workforce and uncompetitive public sector salaries are making it increasingly difficult to ensure that crucial public health positions are filled with qualified professionals. With the introduction of this legislation, Matsui has taken action to reinforce the educational pipeline of public health workers, and to provide incentives for qualified graduates to pursue careers in this vital sector.

The Public Health Preparedness Workforce Development Act pursues a multi-pronged strategy to develop the workforce pipeline that the public health system desperately needs. The legislation creates incentives for students and graduates in public health disciplines to enter the public health workforce. The legislation:

Scholarships: Creates a scholarship program for public health students in return for their service in public health professions after graduation.

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