Advocacy Committee

Welcome to the Advocacy Committee page of the Florida Public Health Association (FPHA). Our mission is to advocate for policies and initiatives that promote the health and well-being of all Floridians. Below, you'll find information about our committee, our current priorities, and important resources for public health advocacy.

About the Advocacy Committee

The Advocacy Committee is dedicated to influencing public health policy through advocacy, education, and partnerships. Our goal is to ensure that public health issues are prioritized and addressed effectively at local, state, and national levels.

Our Advocacy Focus:

FPHA's advocacy efforts are guided by four key pillars:

1. Health Equity: We are committed to reducing disparities in health outcomes by ensuring that all Floridians have access to the resources and opportunities they need for a healthy life. Our advocacy focuses on promoting policies that address the social determinants of health, particularly for marginalized and vulnerable populations.

2. Climate Health: Recognizing the significant impact of climate change on public health, we advocate for policies that protect outdoor workers, reduce heat-related illnesses, and mitigate the effects of environmental hazards. Our work includes raising awareness about the intersection of climate and health, and promoting innovative solutions such as the Smart Surfaces Grant in partnership with the American Public Health Association (APHA).

3. Comprehensive Sexual Health Education: FPHA is a strong proponent of inclusive, accurate, and age-appropriate sexual health education in schools. We advocate for policies that ensure students receive the information they need to make informed decisions about their health, with a particular focus on supporting expectant parents, infants, toddlers, and their families.

4. Policy Innovation:
   Importance of Public Health Authority We champion innovative public health policies that address emerging challenges and enhance community resilience. Our efforts include advocating for local control over public health initiatives and supporting policies that empower communities to enact laws tailored to their unique need.

Our Initiatives

FPHA has a strong track record of impactful advocacy initiatives, including:

• Advocacy and Policy Committee: This committee plays a fundamental role in shaping public health policy in Florida. It has successfully addressed issues such as the pre-emption of local public health laws and advocated for legislative changes that allow for more community-specific health interventions.

• Climate Health Interest Group: This group is focused on addressing the health impacts of climate change, particularly on outdoor workers and vulnerable communities. They work on policy initiatives that promote environmental health and safety.

• Smart Surfaces Grant Collaboration: In partnership with APHA, FPHA has been involved in promoting innovative health solutions related to climate and heat, contributing to national discussions on public health and climate resilience.

• Educational Outreach: FPHA organizes conferences and events that provide valuable education on public health issues, featuring prominent speakers and fostering professional development and networking among public health professionals.

Voting Information

Key Dates for 2024 Elections in Florida

• Primary Election: Tuesday, August 20, 2024
• General Election: Tuesday, November 5, 2024
• Voter Registration Deadline for General Election: Monday, October 7, 2024

Click here for more information.

Vote-by-Mail Request Deadline

The deadline for requesting a vote-by-mail ballot varies by county. Please check with your local Supervisor of Elections for the specific deadline in your area.

For more detailed information, visit the Florida Elections and Ballotpedia.

Why Voting Matters

Voting is a fundamental right and a powerful tool for influencing public health policy. By participating in elections, you can help shape the decisions that affect the health an well-being of your community. Your vote can support candidates and initiatives that prioritize public health, equity, and access to care. 

Our Advocacy Partners

Collaboration is at the heart of our advocacy efforts. FPHA works closely with a range of local and national organizations to amplify our impact:

• Florida Voices for Health: healthyfla.org

  • A coalition dedicated to ensuring access to quality healthcare for all Floridians through advocacy, education, and outreach.

• The AIDS Institute: theaidsinstitute.org

  • A national nonprofit organization that promotes action for social change through public policy, advocacy, research, and education to support health equity for people living with HIV/AIDS and other chronic diseases.

• Florida Health Justice Project: floridahealthjustice.org

  • Focuses on expanding access to healthcare for Florida’s most vulnerable populations through advocacy, legal support, and public policy initiatives.

• Florida PAC: floridapac.org

  • A political action committee that works to advance public health policies through targeted advocacy and support for public health-friendly candidates.

• Florida Advocate: fladvocate.org

  • Provides resources and support to advocates working on a variety of public health issues, with a focus on grassroots mobilization and policy change.

Get Involved

The Advocacy Committee welcomes public health professionals, community members, and other stakeholders who are passionate about improving public health in Florida. To get involved, please contact us at fpha@srahec.org.