Bloomberg Ends NYC Mayoral Term and Leaves Health Legacy to the Public

At the close of New York City Mayor Michael Rubens Bloomberg’s term of office in January 2014, he will leave behind a health legacy that benefited the public a lot. Bloomberg has been criticized for some of his policies but as he is about to end his governance as mayor in the Big Apple, people realize that his health policies have undoubtedly resulted well.

Important accomplishments

Bloomberg’s administration as mayor has passed through several trials from the first day of his term. He assumed office at the wake of the 9/11 tragedies that placed New York in a deep mourning state. The next events that swept the city were not favorable either, with economic recession and a disastrous hurricane engulfing the country. Bloomberg was successful in overcoming these serious setbacks and his accomplishments were marked with sterling splendor. However after leaving his post when his office ends on December 31, he will be best remembered for his health legacy on his city and people.

Anti-Big Gulp and other health policies

The outgoing NYC mayor initiated health consciousness on the public by banning the Big Gulp drinks in restaurants, street carts, movie theaters and other food outlets. The Big Gulp refers to the soda and sugary drink products that are served in large sizes. Bloomberg’s objective in imposing the ban is to fight increasing obesity among the people of all ages. In addition to the anti-Big Gulp regulation, Bloomberg’s government also set up campaigns against other unhealthy foods such as fatty and cholesterol-laden snacks. He also restricted the sale of cigarettes in his attempt to improve and lengthen the life expectancy of his constituents. It is said that while other NYC mayors ahead of Bloomberg gave much focus on getting rid of drug dens and graffiti, he instead zealously led a health crusade in his turf.

Nanny state

Although Bloomberg’s health advocacy was well meant it was nonetheless met by some criticisms. There were court cases questioning the validity of the city health regulations that somehow projected a “nanny state” image for New York City. However, Dr. Linda Fried of Columbia University said that Bloomberg had become a “transformative leader” and he has shaped an example for health improvement by eradicating unhealthy lifestyle.

Bloomberg is a billionaire businessman and philanthropist who is included in the list of wealthiest persons in the U.S. and across the globe. The manner by which he governs New York is seen as an application of his style in managing his own business. He has been used to employing research as a method in arriving at decisions and policy implementation. He utilized this same approach in safeguarding public health in his city.

Smoking ban

Bloomberg also put up a smoking ban in enclosed areas and prohibited the sale of cigarette to any person who is not yet 21. This move resulted to a decline in the number of smokers. Smoking rate among adults reportedly went down from 21.5% (2002) to 15.5% (present). When the policy was first imposed, cigarette tax on the municipal level was only 8 cents for every pack. In an effort to discourage smoking, he increased the tax to $1.50 so that every pack would become too expensive for people to afford. Dr. Thomas Farley, NYC health commissioner said that under the administration of Michael Bloomberg, the government has shown that it can take charge in addressing the huge public health concern in this age and time.

On the last month of his term, the mayor has not stopped making executive orders to sustain his health program. Recently, he signed into law the legislation fixing the legal age for persons who wish to buy cigarettes. The minimum price for every pack of cigarette has likewise gone up at $10.50, which is clearly way too expensive. Moreover, he has pressed on the removal of cigarettes from display counters and hiding them instead in inconspicuous cabinets or counters.

Photo Credit: Michael Bloomberg