By California Public Health Association – North
For his visionary leadership on health issues, his commitment to community service in mediation and conflict resolution, and his tireless efforts for accessible health care, human rights, and environmental protection, the California Public Health Association – North (CPHA-N) has named Bill Monning (D- 27th District) the 2012 California Legislator of the Year.
Assemblymember Monning has authored or co-sponsored numerous bills that affect health care reform for California. These bills have enabled key benefits and protections of the Affordable Care Act. For example, AB1461 guarantees renewability and non-discrimination in health insurance coverage. He authored AB2214 to help with the challenge of training a skilled health workforce. Most importantly, he has been at the forefront in expanding California’s efforts to expand health insurance to the most vulnerable in our state. As a result, more than 12 million Californian’s no longer have a lifetime limit on their health coverage; more than 6.1 million Californians are now covered for preventive health care; more than 355,000 young adults under age 26 can remain on their parents’ health insurance; and more than 319,000 California seniors have saved $170 million in prescription drug costs.
CPHA-N is most proud to acknowledge Assemblymember Monning’s vision that healthy communities require not only access to quality health care but also require attention to the systemic causes of poor health. As a result, he has introduced AB 669, which levies a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages and, when enacted, is expected to reduce childhood obesity.
His past and current efforts illustrate a deep understanding of health inequities and their causes. He is acutely attuned to issues where people may be at a disadvantage due to a historical lack of voice and his bills reflect his careful attention to give people equal opportunity.
We feel very fortunate to have a legislator of such high character and intelligence who serves the best interests of his electorate with conscience and compassion and are pleased to name him 2012 California Legislator of the Year.
