POLICY

The importance of policy as a tool for prevention

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 creates behavioral norms and highlights safety in many situations.

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

• 2008 CA State Legislative Session

Federal Policy

• Senate
• Congress

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.

2006 Federal Legislation

National School Lunch Program

A federally assisted school and residential child care meal program providing nutritionally balanced, low-cost or free lunches to children each school day. Fact Sheet

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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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