HB 2854-S2.E - DIGEST

(AS OF HOUSE 2ND READING 2/16/02)

     Finds there is a need to focus on the prevention, detection, management, and containment of public health emergencies from infectious diseases.

     Finds that an effective communications system is needed to ensure that health care providers across the state can quickly and efficiently notify and communicate with each other regarding signs and symptoms they may observe that may be the earliest indications of bioterrorism and terrorist related public health emergencies.

     Finds that there is a need to coordinate planning among government agencies to ensure an effective response to bioterrorism incidents or other terrorist attacks.

     Recognizes that the department of health and human services has recently awarded funding to the department of health to develop a comprehensive bioterrorism plan and to improve and expand disease surveillance and investigation, communication, public health laboratory capacity, and hospital system readiness.

     Designates the department as the coordinator of the state bioterrorism preparedness and response program.  By July 2, 2002, the department shall prepare a plan for improving current preparedness and response for a bioterrorist event or other public health emergency.

     Requires the department to submit the state plan to the federal department of health and human services by March 15, 2002, and no later than April 15, 2002.  If the deadline for plan submission is extended, the department shall submit the state plan no later than the subsequent deadline established by the federal department of health and human services.

     Requires the department to submit the completed plan, the results of the analysis conducted under this act, and any recommended statutory changes necessary to implement the plan to the legislature no later than December 1, 2002.