Friends and Colleagues,
Recent federal executive orders and actions have placed unconscionable strain on an already under-resourced and overstretched public health infrastructure still recovering from pandemic-era hardships, thus jeopardizing the very local health systems that are vital to our communities. Cuts in funding and research for organizations that are working on critical health issues in our communities, and the termination of thousands of dedicated staff at the Department of Health and Human Services, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and other government agencies who lead and coordinate efforts that protect the health of everyone across the country will have disastrous effects in the near future and for years to come.
The impacts of these actions are particularly devastating for vulnerable populations—immigrants, communities of color, and low-income individuals—who already face significant barriers to care. These orders not only disrupt access to essential health services but also create an environment of fear and uncertainty, discouraging individuals from seeking the care they need. As a result, these measures risk eroding the protections many depend on for their health and well-being.
Public health is rooted in principles of equity and access—ensuring that every individual, regardless of their background or status, can access the resources they need for a healthy life. These actions not only undermine the principles of equity and access central to public health but also create systemic barriers to care. When protections for vulnerable groups are weakened, the entire system suffers. These policies foster distrust in public health institutions, exacerbate long-standing inequities, and ultimately jeopardize the health and well-being of entire communities. Efforts to prevent disease, improve health outcomes, and address the social factors that impact health are directly undermined by policies that divide rather than unite.
At the Network for Public Health Law, we are committed to supporting you through this challenging time, providing the resources and tools you need to navigate uncertainty and respond effectively. Over the past few weeks, we’ve gathered information on critical health, equity, and public health issues affected by these executive actions—from federal immigration enforcement powers to vaccine preventable diseases; the environment, energy, and natural resources; diversity, equity, and inclusion; LGBTQ+ rights; data collection; and research funding.
We’ve just published a comprehensive immigration resource, Immigration Executive Actions and Public Health, outlining both the current and potential public health implications of these executive orders. We’ve also just posted this article explaining current court rulings on DEI-related executive orders. Additionally, we will soon launch a centralized location where you can access resources to help you better understand these executive directives and connect you with other organizations who can help. We will continue to collaborate with our dedicated Act for Public Health partners, who have recently released an FAQ explainer regarding the executive orders and public health practice.
While the full consequences of these policies are still unfolding, here’s what we know for certain: the law matters, public health matters, and our connections with one another matter. The public health community has consistently demonstrated resilience and leadership in times of crisis. We understand the challenges these actions present and are committed to providing the resources and support necessary to help you continue your important work to protect the health of communities.
In Solidarity and Support,
Interim Co-executive Director
The Network for Public Health Law
