Dr. Scott Harris Advocates for Public Health Funding Before Congress

On April 9, 2025, Dr. Scott Harris, the president of the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) and the state health officer for the Alabama Department of Public Health, took center stage at the House Committee on Appropriations. His testimony before the committee shed light on the urgent need for sustainable and predictable government funding for essential public health programs.

Dr. Harris articulated significant concerns regarding the landscape of public health in the United States, which has been affected adversely in recent years due to fluctuating funding levels. He made a compelling case for the federal backing of critical entities such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). These organizations are pivotal in safeguarding the health and well-being of the nation.

In his address, Dr. Harris underscored the direct impact of these federal programs on public health safety, particularly in light of recent challenges such as the abrupt cancellation of COVID-19 grants by Health and Human Services (HHS). He stated, "Governmental public health agencies are on the front line protecting our nation and improving the health and well-being of the entire U.S. population."

The issues raised in his testimony are not merely academic; they resonate with the lived experiences of communities struggling with health crises. Dr. Harris pointed out that chronic diseases, the resurgence of vaccine-preventable illnesses, and the ongoing opioid epidemic pose stark challenges to American public health. These ongoing struggles emphasize the need for a forward-looking approach in public health funding, one that roots itself in community needs.

He articulated, "To build long-term resilience, public health funding must be consistent, forward-looking, and rooted in community-driven initiatives that address the needs of people where they live." This is not just rhetoric; it reflects an urgent plea for a comprehensive strategy to overcome barriers that jeopardize public health.

ASTHO is calling upon Congress to ensure stable, long-term financial support for public health agencies. Dr. Harris emphasized that without steady investment, local, state, tribal, and territorial health agencies may find their capacity to function effectively severely compromised. The challenge faced by these agencies goes beyond mere funding; it is about laying a strong infrastructure that can inspire public trust and enhance the safety of American citizens.

The message is clear: a firm commitment to enduring resources is imperative to secure a healthier future for communities across the United States. As Congress deliberates on these critical budgetary issues, the implications of their decisions will resonate deeply within public health frameworks nationwide.

Dr. Harris's complete testimony is available for those interested in further details about his recommendations and insights. The association represents a collective of public health professionals dedicated to formulating effective policies and ensuring excellence in practice across the U.S.

As the importance of health funding continues to be a pivotal discussion point in congressional sessions, it becomes ever more crucial for stakeholders and citizens alike to advocate for a robust public health sector that can effectively respond to the challenges of today and those of the future.

For more information on this crucial testimony and the ongoing efforts by ASTHO, you can visit their official website.