U.S. Representative Barbara Lee (D–Calif.) has introduced the Health Equity and Accountability Act of 2011, a bill that seeks to eliminate racial and ethnic health disparities, according to a statement from Lee. The bill intends to improve: data collection and reporting; culturally and linguistically appropriate health care; health workforce diversity; health outcomes for women, children and families; mental health; and outcomes for diseases such as hepatitis and HIV/AIDS, which disproportionately affect minorities. The bill included 68 original cosponsors, including members from the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, the Congressional Black Caucus and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.

To read Lee’s statement, click here.