House approves Senate Bill 33 to create Office of Health Disparities and an American Indian health liaison

Representative Draxler introduced Senate Bill 33 on the floor, noting the bill coincided with American Indian Day at the Capitol and that tribal leaders were present. He said SB33 "formalizes a process within the Department of Health" and "does 2 things: it changes the name of the Center for Multicultural Health to the Office of Health Disparities, and it establishes a position of American Indian and Alaska Native health liaison." He added the measure formalizes existing coordination with tribes "so it has that kind of recognition," and that "there is no new funding required."

Several representatives spoke in support. Representative Chavez Houck thanked the Senate sponsor and the House sponsor and said the change will help address needs in Native American communities and improve interagency efficiencies. Representative Watkins said the liaison was "so important for the Native Americans who live in our state" and cited longstanding health disparities. Representative Vickers noted professional experience working with the Paiute Tribe and expressed support.

The bill was read three times and the House opened voting. The clerk recorded that Senate Bill 33 "having received 66 yes votes, 0 no votes, passes this body" and would be signed and transmitted to the Senate President for signature. After the vote the floor recognized tribal leaders from multiple tribes and bands who were invited to the floor for recognition.