La Follette–Bulwinkle Act

United States federal law regulating the transportation of patients with communicable diseases

The La Follette–Bulwinkle Act is a United States federal law enacted in 1944 that regulates the transportation of patients with communicable diseases. The act was designed to prevent the spread of infectious diseases across state lines by ensuring that individuals with such diseases were transported under safe and controlled conditions.

Background

During the early 20th century, the United States faced significant public health challenges due to the spread of infectious diseases. The movement of individuals with communicable diseases, particularly via public transportation, posed a risk of spreading these diseases to new areas. Prior to the enactment of the La Follette–Bulwinkle Act, there was no comprehensive federal regulation governing the interstate transportation of individuals with infectious diseases.

Legislative History

The act is named after its sponsors, Senator Robert M. La Follette Jr. of Wisconsin and Representative Alfred L. Bulwinkle of North Carolina. The legislation was introduced in response to growing concerns about the public health implications of transporting patients with communicable diseases without adequate safeguards.

The bill was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1944. It was part of a broader effort to enhance public health infrastructure and disease control measures during and after World War II.

Provisions of the Act

The La Follette–Bulwinkle Act established guidelines for the safe transportation of individuals with communicable diseases. Key provisions of the act include:

• Regulation of Transportation: The act requires that any transportation of individuals with communicable diseases across state lines must be conducted in a manner that prevents the spread of the disease.

• Coordination with Health Authorities: The act mandates coordination between transportation providers and public health authorities to ensure that appropriate measures are in place to protect public health.

• Penalties for Non-Compliance: The act imposes penalties on individuals or entities that fail to comply with its provisions, including fines and potential imprisonment.

Impact and Significance

The La Follette–Bulwinkle Act played a crucial role in strengthening the United States' public health response to communicable diseases. By regulating the transportation of infected individuals, the act helped to prevent outbreaks and protect communities from the spread of infectious diseases.

The act also set a precedent for federal involvement in public health matters, paving the way for future legislation aimed at controlling the spread of diseases.

Related Pages

• Public health law in the United States
• Communicable disease
• Robert M. La Follette Jr.
• Alfred L. Bulwinkle

A depiction of a positive Wassermann test, used to diagnose syphilis, a communicable disease