Which of the 10 essential public health services is responsible for enforcing laws?

• A. Enforce laws
• B. Diagnose and investigate
• C. Link to or provide care
• D. Inform, educate, empower

Answer: (A)

Enforcing laws is about turning public health rules into action to protect the community by making sure regulations are followed. This essential service involves regulatory oversight like inspections, monitoring compliance, investigating violations, and taking enforcement actions when needed. Through these steps, it creates accountability and deters unsafe practices, helping to prevent hazards such as unsafe food handling, polluted water, or dangerous work conditions. While other essential services focus on detecting health threats, informing the public, or linking people to care, enforcement specifically ensures that laws and regulations are actually implemented and complied with to keep people safe.