American Public Health Association adopts 17 new policy statements at Annual Meeting

New policy statements address paid sick leave, access to nature, solitary confinement and more

Boston, Nov. 5, 2013

The American Public Health Association adopted 17 new policy statements at its 141st Annual Meeting in Boston covering topics ranging from social security to noise pollution to extending paid sick leave policies.

Following are brief descriptions of the 17 policy statements adopted by the Governing council on Nov. 5,
2013. These brief descriptions are not comprehensive and do not include every point, statement or conclusion presented in the policy statements. Upon finalization and copyediting, full policy statements will be available at www.apha.org/advocacy/policy in early 2014. For more information on any of these policy statements, email
policy@apha.org .apha.org/advocacy/policy in early 2014.

2013 Nature, health and wellness ‘” To aid in promoting healthy and active lifestyles, encourages land use decisions that prioritize access to natural areas and green spaces for residents of all ages, abilities and income levels. Calls on public health, medical and other health professionals to raise awareness among patients and the public at-large about the health benefits of spending time in nature and of nature-based play and recreation. Also urges such professionals to form partnerships with relevant stakeholders, such as parks departments, school districts and nature centers. Calls for promoting natural landscaping.

Marilyn Tormey

614-224-0222 ext. 101

614-224-5437 fax

mtormey@actionforchildren.org

78 Jefferson Avenue | Columbus, OH 43215

www.actionforchildren.org