Public Health related laws and regulations play an important role in attaining public health goals; they serve as a foundation for governmental public health activities. Many of public health’s greatest successes are due to laws and regulations including high childhood immunization rates, improved motor vehicle safety, safer workplaces, and reduced tooth decay. Public Health laws and regulations will continue to play an important role as we address emerging public health threats such as childhood obesity, healthcare-associated infections, motor vehicle injuries, and prescription drug overdoses.