Discriminatory laws and policies create conditions that can lead to poor health for people of color, and low income, rural and marginalized communities. Public health plays a critical role in identifying the root causes of health inequity and finding effective solutions.
Topics in this track include Community Health Workers, marginalized communities, race and health, rural health, Medical-Legal Partnerships, immigration and health, and tribal health.

Where we live impacts our health. Our environment can determine whether we have higher health risks from disease or injury. And for many communities, the effects of climate change exacerbate existing environmental health challenges.
Topics explored in this track include the built environment and safe neighborhoods, climate adaption solutions, environmental justice, toxicants, water quality, safe and healthy housing, and food systems.

Actions by the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government determine the nature and direction of health policy, but changing social norms can also be a driver. Sessions in this track examine the biggest challenges to current health policy, as well as emerging issues.
Topics include the Affordable Care Act, cannabis, gun violence, reproductive health, mental health, opioids/harm reduction, and vaccination policy.

Many children and adolescents face barriers to good health which can impact them throughout their lifetimes. Effective laws and policies can strengthen programs to promote children’s well-being and ensure they get the best chance at health.
Topics explored in this track include access to care, adverse childhood experiences/trauma-informed care, obesity, vaping, health in schools, social and emotional learning, and injury prevention.

Law can be a powerful tool to protect the health of communities. Sessions in this track will help public health officials, attorneys, practitioners and advocates better understand how law can impact programs and initiatives, and how it relates to the work they do.
Topics explored in this track include preemption, emergency preparedness, executive decision making, public health authority, shared services, agency accreditation, and data sharing and privacy.