TRENDS IN HEALTH LEGISLATION AND ADMINISTRATION

Abstract

IN THIS column in April, we reported that a new School Health Services Bill was being drafted in the Health Sub-Committee of the Senate Committee on Labor and Public Welfare. On March 25, this Bill came out of Committee and was introduced into the Senate by Senator Thomas (Democrat, Utah) as S. 1411. Sponsoring this Bill with Senator Thomas was the entire membership of the Health Sub-Committee, with the addition of Senator Saltonstall, who introduced the School Health Service Bill (S.1290) a year ago in the Eightieth Congress. In the opinion of several of those who are close to the Washington scene, this School Health Services Bill is one of the health measures most apt to meet with favorable and early action in the current session of Congress. While the battle rages over a comprehensive health program, a health measure which is less contentious may be enacted. Following all the electioneering promises it would be surprising if this session of Congress were to close without some health legislation which can be held up as accomplishment. S. 1411 is scheduled for early action in the Senate; in the House there have been several additions to the roster of the sponsors of School Health Services legislation. Indeed, this Bill, with some modifications, may have been acted upon favorably in both Houses by the time this report is published. If enacted, the measure will have farreaching influence upon health services for children of school age, and therefore warrants close attention by pediatricians, general practitioners, health officers and others specially concerned in this area.