Even as the threats of bird flu, bioterrorism and evolving food-borne illnesses have grown, legislators have left public health programs without a source of reliable funding. The 2007 Legislature ought to step up to its responsibility.

For a long time, public health programs had an assured source of state funding, from the old motor vehicle excise tax. But then the Legislature effectively did away with the money in a political rush to enact the heart of a dubious initiative.

As early as today, the state House of Representatives has an opportunity to show that it is now more committed than its predecessors to providing a reliable stream of money for local public health agencies. HB1825, built on the bipartisan work of a legislative select committee, would set up a new account for public health financing.

But, in its current form, the bill has lost a critical ingredient -- the assurance of a reliable source of money. The bill's prime sponsor, Rep. Shay Schual-Berke, deserves the support of the whole House when she attempts to establish a funding source -- a portion of the state's tobacco tax.

There couldn't be a more reasonable way to help with public health. We understand the reluctance of some legislators to commit money from the general fund. But public health is a basic service. Struggling public health agencies all over Washington need a reliable partner.

Public health used to be able to count on the state. Legislators should renew their commitment to protecting public health.

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