Tracking State-Level Health Impact Assessment Legislation from 2012-2016

Abstract

Background: To collect and analyze state-level Health Impact Assessment (HIA) legislative activity. Methods: Two longitudinal datasets examining state-level HIA legislation across the United States between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2016 were developed using the policy surveillance process. One dataset captures the characteristics of all HIA bills that were introduced and failed, or introduced and were still under consideration, during the time period of the study; the second dataset captures the characteristics of all HIA laws that were enacted or amended, including statutes and regulations. Results: Forty-three HIA bills were introduced that require, encourage, or incentivize the use of an HIA, and three of these bills were enacted or amended into law, between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2016. Conclusions: Additional research is necessary to understand the factors that drive success or failure of HIA legislation, and the impacts of such legislation when implemented on decision-making, health determinants and outcomes, and health equity. Policy Implications: Although legislation can encourage further use of HIAs, they need to provide sufficient clarity, guidance, and resources to effectively foster use of HIAs.