Policy Matters: Legislative Efforts to Improve Respiratory Health in 2025

Respiratory health remains a critical focus in 2025 as we continue to navigate the lasting effects of the pandemic era and growing concerns about air quality. While clinicians are on the front lines treating conditions like asthma, COPD, and RSV, meaningful change also comes from the policies shaping our environments and healthcare systems.

California's Gas Stove Warning Labels

In 2024, California lawmakers passed Assembly Bill 2513, which mandates that new gas stoves sold after January 2025 (online) and January 2026 (in-store) carry warning labels about pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, benzene, carbon monoxide, and formaldehyde. These emissions have been linked to increased risks of childhood asthma and cardiovascular issues, especially among vulnerable populations (Associated Press, 2024).

American Lung Association's Public Policy Agenda (2025–2026)

The American Lung Association’s (ALA) agenda for the 119th Congress focuses on key issues including clean air, healthcare access, and tobacco control. The ALA advocates for increased federal funding for lung disease research, expanded coverage for preventative care, and regulations to reduce air pollution and tobacco use—policies that have direct implications for respiratory outcomes nationwide (American Lung Association, 2025).

Queensland’s RSV Vaccination Program

Internationally, Queensland, Australia has introduced a $13.5 million RSV immunization program providing free vaccinations to pregnant women, building on existing support for vulnerable infants and children under age two. This policy highlights the potential of preventive healthcare legislation in reducing infant mortality and long-term respiratory illness (Courier Mail, 2024).

As a healthcare professional, I believe it’s essential to not only treat disease but also to understand the policies that influence our clinical environment and our patients’ daily lives. Good respiratory health begins not only with access to care—but with policies that prevent harm in the first place.

References

American Lung Association. (2025). Public policy agenda: 119th Congress (2025–2026). American Lung Association.

Associated Press. (2024, May 15). California moves closer to requiring new pollutant-warning labels for gas stoves. Associated Press.

Courier Mail. (2024, December 1). Free vaccine to protect QLD mums and kids from RSV. The Courier Mail.