AB 1965: Public health: Office of Tribal Affairs.

Existing law establishes the State Department of Public Health that is led by the State Public Health Officer, who is appointed by the Governor and subject to confirmation by the Senate. The Governor is authorized to appoint, upon the recommendation of the State Public Health Officer, 2 chief deputies, subject to confirmation by the Senate.

This bill would establish the Office of Tribal Affairs within the department to be led by a Tribal Health Liaison to assist in addressing the public health disparities impacting tribal communities. The bill would require the office to communicate needs and to propose specific solutions from tribal communities to the department and state entities, as specified. The bill would provide that the Tribal Health Liaison be appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the State Public Health Officer and would require the State Public Health Officer to regularly consult with and consider input and information provided by the Tribal Health Liaison. The bill would require the Tribal Health Liaison, among other duties, to regularly consult with California tribal representatives, as specified, and oversee the departments tribal health equity meetings, advisory groups, and workgroups. The bill would make related findings and declarations.