This report released today by the Congressional Research Service provides background on the Prevention and Public Health Fund, which is intended to support an “expanded and sustained national investment in prevention and public health programs.” Established by Section 4002 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA, P.L. 111-148, as amended), the PPHF is funded with a permanent annual appropriation to be administered by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS).
The PPHF authority directs the HHS Secretary to transfer amounts from the Fund to HHS agencies for prevention, wellness, and public health activities. Under the ACA, the PPHF’s annual appropriation would have increased from $500 million for FY2010 to $2 billion for FY2015 and each subsequent fiscal year. Congress has amended the provision two times, using a portion of PPHF funds as an offset for the costs of other activities. The Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 (P.L. 112-96) reduced PPHF appropriations for FY2013 through FY2021. The 21st Century Cures Act (P.L. 114-255) reduced PPHF appropriations for FY2018 through FY2024.
Congress may explicitly direct the distribution of PPHF funds, and did so for FY2014 through FY2017. In general, PPHF funds have been distributed to HHS agencies in the Public Health Service.
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