Our Advocacy
UPHA advocates for policies that protect and improve the health of all Utahns through education, collaboration, and evidence-based action
Legislative Policy
In 2023, the UPHA Advocacy unit played an integral role in passing legislation to extend Medicaid coverage for postpartum people from 60 days to a full year. This policy change reduces the risk of illness when people are most vulnerable in the first year after giving birth.
Building up advocates
Day on the Hill is one of our standout events of the year. At the State Capitol, we have policy makers and veteran advocates inspire and educate public health students and professionals on how they can share their expertise and experiences to educate policy makers.
During the year, we also provide informative webinars on different methods of advocacy such as op-eds and letters to the editor.
Resolutions
View past UPHA resolutions that reflect their continued commitment to important public health issues
2025 Support of Legislation Banning Copay Accumulators in Utah
Whereas, copay accumulator programs prevent financial assistance provided by drug manufacturers and specialty pharmacies from being applied toward patients’ annual deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums, leading to increased financial burdens on patients.
2025 Health Education Resolution
Whereas, sexual violence is a pertinent and preventable public health issue and has a negative impact on the mental, physical, and emotional well being of the individuals and families it affects.
2025 Vaccine Education, Transparency, and Safety
Whereas vaccinations are one of the most effective public health measures in preventing the spread of infectious diseases and protecting vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
2024 Firearm Violence Prevention
Whereas gun violence is a preventable public health crisis that causes significant harm to individuals, families, and communities and; Whereas Utah has a high number of households who own at least one firearm.
2023 UPHA Resolution to Address LGBTQ+ Access to Healthcare
Whereas, research showed that 45% of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered self-harm in 2022 and 14% of LGBTQ+ youth attempted suicide. Furthermore, 73% of LGBTQ+ youth reported experiencing symptoms of anxiety, 58% reported experiencing symptoms of depression, and nearly 65% of transgender and nonbinary youth experienced symptoms of depression.
2023 Reproductive Health Access
Whereas, the Utah Public Health Association (UPHA) is dedicated to supporting individuals, families, and communities across the state of Utah through evidence-based policies, programs, and practices.
2021 Addressing Racism as a Public Health Crisis
Whereas, the Utah Public Health Association believes racism is a barrier to health access and equity, and is a public health crisis that must be proactively addressed within our state.
2019 Climate Change Education and Action
Whereas, the Utah Public Health Association (UPHA) approved a resolution to control climate change in 2009, and since that time the situation has worsened considerably.
