The U.S. faces worsening maternal health disparities and mortality rates due to lack of access and unaddressed systemic barriers to health. In an issue brief, fellow McClain Sampson and co-author Priscilla P. Kennedy summarize the Biden-Harris Maternal Health Blueprint to achieve maternal health equity through a comprehensive approach and also describe a model of care for Medicaid recipients that is aligned with the Blueprint.
From 2020 to 2023, sales of hemp-derived cannabinoids increased by 1,283%, reaching a value of $2.78 billion last year. Although the Texas hemp industry is booming, lack of regulation poses risks to public health. A new brief from the Drug Policy Program makes specific recommendations for strengthening and enforcing current laws — ensuring consumer safety while also providing economic benefits for the state.
Recent federal research security initiatives have put the U.S. at risk of losing its lead in science and technology, write senior fellow Neal F. Lane, Steven Pei, and Jeremy Wu. They lay out a path toward clear, fair policy that safeguards America’s security and competitiveness while fostering a welcoming research environment for foreign talent.
No longer confined to the lab, genetically altered products are now being marketed to the public. This means the need for genetic biocontainment has shifted from the laboratory to the general environment.
While the U.S. has tried to appear assertive in taking action against China’s trade practices, this strategy has yielded limited results. In a new commentary, fellow Simon Lester summarizes current U.S. policies addressing China’s trade conduct and advocates for the U.S.’ revitalized engagement with the World Trade Organization’s dispute settlement system.
Many tax treatments can help families and individuals cover college expenses, yet methods of paying for college may change with recent and forthcoming policies. In an issue brief, fellow Joyce Beebe reviews proposed policy reforms to federal student loan forgiveness and outlines updates to repayment plans, application processes, and accompanying tax treatments.
The safety and efficacy of many stem cell treatments remain unproven by the FDA, yet state laws promote access and use of these unchecked and potentially harmful treatments. Fellow Kirstin R.W. Matthews summarizes her recent publication in a new commentary — outlining public health consequences of these state laws and calling for scientific societies’ advocacy in state policymaking.