Articles tagged with Legislation
A Duke University study found that assigning public schools failing grades leads to increased turnout among affluent voters, but has little impact on low-income families. The research suggests that providing citizens with information about school performance does not necessarily address imbalances in civic engagement.
A new study using digital imaging found that students are putting more fruits and vegetables on their trays but consuming fewer and increasing waste by 56 percent. Researchers suggest supplementing guidelines with strategies such as cutting up veggies with dip or adopting Farm-to-School programs to increase consumption.
The Assisted Dying Bill aims to provide protection for terminally ill and mentally competent adults through judicial consent, but experts disagree on its safeguards. Jacky Davis argues that the bill will result in fewer suffering deaths, while Baroness Ilora Finlay warns of potential vulnerabilities among certain groups.
A study by researchers at the University of Edinburgh found that smoking bans led to a 8% drop in stillbirths and newborn deaths in England, resulting in 1500 avoided deaths. The ban also reduced low birth weight cases by over 5000.
Research found that individual state stroke legislation plays a crucial role in certifying primary stroke centers and increasing the availability of prompt stroke care. State action, including implementing policies for emergency medical services, has led to a significant increase in certified hospitals nationwide.
Two doctors criticize Australia's Border Force Act 2015 for silencing healthcare professionals who report substandard medical care in detention centres. The law can lead to imprisonment for whistleblowers, violating their professional duty and international humanitarian obligations.
A new study found that smoke-free legislation in England leads to a significant reduction in hospital admissions for respiratory tract infections among children. The introduction of legislation resulted in an immediate decrease of 13.8% in lower respiratory tract infection admissions, while upper respiratory tract infections also saw a...
Current EU legislation will lead to significant improvements in particulate matter pollution, but many areas of Europe will still exceed limits. The study identifies Eastern Europe, Southern Poland, and major cities as hotspots that require targeted emission controls.
A University of Michigan study found a 92% increase in children seeking medical assistance for concussions in states with concussion laws. The legislation, combined with heightened public awareness, has led to significant increases in concussion treatment rates among school-age athletes.
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that state concussion legislation is associated with a significant increase in healthcare utilization for children with concussions. Between 2008-2009 and 2011-2012, states with legislation saw a 92% rise in concussion-related healthcare usage, compared to a 75% increase in states without laws.
Lumina Decision Systems' Analytica software helped stakeholders reach near consensus on a 'rigs to reefs' policy option, reducing costs and preserving marine ecosystems. The tool was successful in distilling rhetoric to meaningful discussion of tradeoffs and values.
A study by University of Northern British Columbia researchers found that drivers just older than the legal drinking age had a significant increase in motor vehicle crashes compared to those immediately under the restriction. Raising the drinking age to 19 years could prevent up to 583 police-reported collisions per year.
A study by Jonathan Purtle found that federal legislation addressing PTSD has predominantly focused on military personnel, with over 90% of mentions targeting military personnel or combat exposure. However, PTSD affects a significantly larger civilian population due to its prevalence in non-military traumatic events.
The number of green turtles nesting at Ascension Island has increased by over 500% since the 1970s, with an estimated 24,000 nests laid every year. The Island's main beaches have been protected through new legislation, which also creates seven new nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries.
A recent study suggests that dog bites pose an unknown public health risk, while ignoring the health benefits of dog ownership. Research is needed to improve care and estimate dog bite incidence to develop effective risk management strategies.
The BMJ editorial advocates for the Assisted Dying Bill, citing a strong public consensus of 82% in favor, as well as Oregon's experience with assisted dying legislation. The bill aims to allow terminally ill adults to end their lives with medical assistance.
A law introduced in Victoria, Australia in 2005 made life jacket wear compulsory for all recreational boaters, resulting in a significant decline in drowning deaths. The study found that the odds of wearing a life jacket rose eight-fold, and the number of drownings fell from 59 to 16 in six years.
Researchers found that over 40% of online shoppers buy additional products without extra value, influenced by pre-populated data and opt-in/opt-out tactics. The study highlights the effectiveness of post-transaction sales in luring consumers.
A survey of Scottish working dogs found that undocked breeds are at greatest risk of tail injuries. The authors suggest that docking these breeds by one-third could significantly decrease the risk of injury.
A new criminal offence of wilful neglect is needed in the healthcare sector to address appalling care and provide a clear message. Existing regulation is not up to the job, and patients can only seek redress through civil courts, which have limited scope.
Political scientists Norman Ornstein and Jared Diamond explore the root causes of American democracy's crisis, blaming tribalism and political extremism. They argue that these factors have led to gridlock, legislative failures, and erosion of democratic processes.
Between 2009-2012, 18 states introduced 36 bills modifying school immunization mandates, with the majority expanding exemptions. Most bills with administrative requirements restricted exemptions, but none were passed. The study highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining high immunization coverage.
A new study confirms that big-city legislation is passed at lower rates than smaller bills, citing infighting within city delegations as the primary cause. Despite larger representation, urban areas struggle to pass legislation due to internal divisions and party politics.
Regulatory efforts aimed at e-cigarettes have been misguided, leading to unintended consequences for public health. Experts propose evidence-based guidelines that prioritize good manufacturing practices, child-proof caps, and clear labeling, while acknowledging the availability of existing EU legislation to address safety issues.
A quarter of crashes in the US are now attributed to mobile phone use, with texting being the riskiest activity. Experts recommend technological solutions to prevent distracted driving, such as software that prevents texting while driving or signal jamming keys.
A new criminal sanction is being considered to deter poor care resulting in severe harm, but critics argue it may cause distress and disruption. The proposed legislation aims to close a gap in the law and promote open culture, but its potential pitfalls remain unclear.
Researchers found that making movies with 'Oscar appeal' comes with both risks and rewards, including increased box office receipts but also a decrease in audience enjoyment. The study used data on nearly 3,000 Oscar-eligible films to build an algorithm predicting Oscar nominations based on film characteristics.
A study in one UK city reveals that bartenders frequently sell alcohol to intoxicated patrons, contradicting UK law aimed at preventing further sales. The findings suggest that poor management and inadequate staff training contribute to the routine flouting of this legislation.
UCLA researchers Gabriel Rossman and Oliver Schilke analyzed 25 years of data on mainstream cinema to discover the logic behind Hollywood's decisions. They found that filmmakers who make movies with "Oscar appeal" (often mocked as "Oscar bait") face a risk-and-reward structure similar to lobbyists, with costly bids for potential awards.
The EUCelLEX Project examines current legislation on somatic cells, assessing relevance and proposing sustainable solutions. It aims to provide a stabilised legal context for the use of stem cells in clinical purposes.
A new study reveals that US organ procurement organizations' implementation of First Person Authorization (FPA) has been inconsistent and incomplete. Despite legal backing from state laws, half the groups surveyed did not have a written policy for handling family objections.
Researchers found that grandiose narcissism in US presidents is linked to high ratings for public persuasiveness and crisis management, as well as impeachment resolutions. Lyndon B. Johnson scored highest on markers of grandiose narcissism, followed by Theodore Roosevelt.
The changes to Canada's fisheries legislation have removed habitat protection for most fish species, according to a study by University of Calgary and Dalhousie University fisheries biologists. The removal of habitat protection is inconsistent with ecosystem-based management and has been described as politically motivated.
A nationwide smoke-free legislation in Greece showed lower secondhand smoke concentrations after the ban, but levels increased again over time. The presence of ashtrays or their equivalents was strongly associated with higher secondhand smoke levels, suggesting that enforcement may be a factor.
A study by researchers found that gypsum wallboard allows carbon monoxide to diffuse through it. This could explain instances of CO poisoning in contiguous residences. The findings highlight the need for CO alarm use and education in homes with this type of wallboard.
A study of 536 smokers in Australia found that plain packaging makes cigarettes less appealing and increases the urgency to quit. This is significant as it can help curb tobacco's appeal and boost thoughts of quitting among smokers.
A new study by USC's Glenn Melnick and Katya Fonkych found that California's Hospital Fair Pricing Act led to a significant reduction in hospital prices for uninsured patients. Nearly all hospitals (97%) offered free care to those below the federal poverty line, going beyond the state mandate.
Cyclists are vulnerable road users with head injuries accounting for 75% of cycling-related deaths. Researchers found helmet legislation has a minimal impact on reducing serious head injuries among all ages, with rates falling before implementation.
A new review highlights the need for additional legislation and guidelines for surrogate pregnancies in modern obstetrics. The lack of clear guidance puts women, babies, and parents at risk of exploitation, making it essential for healthcare professionals to have practical advice on managing these cases.
A study from Rice University reveals that public awareness of sexual-orientation employment-antidiscrimination laws is heightened in communities with such legislation. Gay and lesbian job applicants experience less interpersonal discrimination when protected by antidiscrimination law, even when controlling for religious views.
A new study found that EU minimum tax legislation for cigarettes has no effect on smoking prevalence, with prices rising up to three times faster than before. The introduction of the legislation in Spain in 2006 led to a shift towards hand-rolled cigarettes, which are cheaper than manufactured ones.
A study of 606,877 live births in Belgium found that smoking bans led to a reduction in the risk of preterm birth, with decreases evident after each phase of legislation. The findings suggest that smoking bans have public health benefits from early life and support stricter smoke-free policies.
Research in England and Wales reveals a significant reduction in paracetamol overdose deaths due to smaller pack sizes, with a 43% decrease over 11 years. However, the study's authors caution that this trend may not continue if further measures are not taken to limit the death toll.
Only 11 states and the District of Columbia have implemented key health insurance market reforms under the Affordable Care Act, leaving 39 states vulnerable to limited enforcement. States must take action to ensure compliance with consumer protections, such as bans on denying coverage due to preexisting conditions.
A study found that smoke-free legislation implemented in 2006 led to a 11% decrease in acute myocardial infarctions, mainly among non-smokers and older adults. The reduction is attributed to decreased passive exposure to tobacco smoke.
The 25th Annual Legislative Update provides a comprehensive review of new legal and regulatory issues affecting advanced nursing practice across the US. APRNs have improved access to care in several states despite challenges from medical boards, and efforts continue to standardize laws and regulations.
Researchers found that consensus and cooperation are the norm within Congress, with most major programs renewed every 4-6 years. Manufactured crises like the 'fiscal cliff' often serve as catalysts for significant policy changes.
Comprehensive smoke-free laws resulted in rapid decreases in heart attack hospitalizations (15% reduction), stroke hospitalizations (16% decrease), and respiratory disease hospitalizations (24% drop). The most effective laws covered workplaces, restaurants, and bars, demonstrating the importance of inclusive legislation.
The River Thames has been invaded with over 96 non-native freshwater species, according to a recent study published in Biological Invasions. The research suggests that globalisation and shipping activity have facilitated these invasions, resulting in significant biodiversity loss and ecosystem service degradation.
A new type of firework has caused severe eye injuries and blindness in children and adults at public events, including bonfire night celebrations. Doctors call for stricter controls on the use and distribution of fireworks to prevent such accidents.
A new study by Susan Parish found that families living in states with parity laws spent significantly less on healthcare needs for their children with autism. Families in these states incurred lower out-of-pocket costs, averaging $500 annually, compared to those without such legislation, where costs were much higher.
A study found that indoor tanning restrictions have increased in several countries since 2003, with 11 nations implementing legislation to limit youth access. The number of countries with nationwide restrictions grew from two in 2003 to 11 in 2011.
A new Quebec report suggests medically assisted death should be considered an end-of-life care option for patients, rather than a criminal act. The proposal aims to protect healthcare workers and patients from potential abuses if adopted.
Research by Charles Woolfson reveals that berry pickers from Asia and Eastern Europe may be subjected to forced labor in Swedish forests. The ILO's definition of forced labor is met, with threats of punishment and non-consensual working conditions.
A recent study found that breastfeeding for six months or longer comes with a hidden cost: significant income loss for mothers. Long-duration breastfeeders experienced more pronounced and prolonged earnings drops compared to short-duration breastfeeders and formula-feeders.
Research finds that hospitals adopting quality process management techniques to reduce errors and meet government mandates often compromise on the quality of individual patients' experiences. This tension arises from prioritizing standardized, data-driven approaches over customized, patient-centered care.
49 states and the District of Columbia have taken action supporting the Affordable Care Act's implementation, including passing legislation, issuing regulations, or reviewing insurer filings. States have adopted a range of pragmatic approaches to ensure residents receive consumer protections promised under the law.
A new national poll found that 81% of adults think an educational program or counseling is an appropriate consequence for teens who sext. Most adults also favor non-criminal programs such as schools giving information on sexting and requiring community service.
Researchers argue that UK law on cycle helmets should apply only to kids due to equivocal evidence of adult protection. The authors suggest a paternalistic approach and instead recommend public health information to empower adults to make their own decisions about helmet-wearing.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that Scotland's national smoke-free legislation led to a dramatic fall in preterm delivery rates, with a drop of over 10% in overall preterm births. The ban also reduced small for dates infants by almost 5%.