US State-Level Legislative Responses to the Ebola Outbreak, 2014-2015

Area of Science:

• Public Health Policy
• Epidemiology
• Legislative Analysis

Background:

• The 2014-2015 Ebola outbreak prompted varied responses across US states.
• Understanding state-level legislative actions is crucial for public health preparedness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically identify and analyze state legislative responses to the Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak.
• To examine the scope and nature of bills and resolutions introduced between April 2014 and June 2015.

Main Methods:

• Searched LexisNexis State Capital database for state bills and resolutions mentioning Ebola or viral hemorrhagic fever.
• Covered all 50 US states and Washington, DC, from April 2014 to June 2015.
• Analyzed 17 included bills/resolutions from 11 states for themes and patterns.

Main Results:

• A total of 273 bills and resolutions were initially identified, with 17 meeting inclusion criteria.
• Key legislative goals included protecting healthcare workers, redefining communicable diseases, financial appropriations, task force creation, and facility updates.
• Six bills were enacted, and four resolutions were adopted, indicating some legislative action.

Conclusions:

• Approximately 20% of states introduced legislation related to the Ebola outbreak.
• These legislative responses underscore the need for updated laws concerning emerging infectious diseases and worker protections.
• Lessons learned from state Ebola responses can inform future emergency preparedness planning.