To understand health policy and law, it's key to grasp some basic legal principles in U.S. public health and healthcare law. The U.S. Constitution, though it doesn't mention health, leaves these matters mostly to state authority unless delegated to local jurisdictions. This authority, known as police power, allows states to legislate and act for the public good, including regulating healthcare professionals, setting health and safety standards, and controlling hazards like car restraints, vaccinations, and tobacco sales :sneezing_face:
State police power is limited by individual rights, which are established by the U.S. Constitution, state constitutions, or federal and state laws :writing_hand::skin-tone-4:
The U.S. Constitution permits but does not obligate governments to protect public health or provide healthcare, a concept known as the negative constitution. Governments have the authority to act but aren't required to, as shown by the Supreme Court not mandating states to prevent child or spousal abuse, even with knowledge or restraining orders :heavy_minus_sign: