G-CAPP Policy and Advocacy News

The US Teen Birth Rate Rises for the First Time in 14 Years: What Does this Mean for Georgia?
After dropping steadily since the early 1990s, the nation’s birth rate for teens ages 15-19 rose 3 percent in 2006, according to a recent report from the National Center for Health Statistics. This represents the first increase in the US teen birth rate in 14 years. The full report can be found on the NCHS website.

Recently released data shows that Georgia also experienced a 3 percent increase in the teen birth rate in 2006. According to the Georgia Division of Public Health, Georgia’s birth rate for 15 to 19 year olds rose from 52.3 births per 1,000 in 2005 to 54.1 births per 1,000 in 2006. The rate increased among both African-Americans and Whites.

Like the national rate, Georgia’s teen birth rate had declined every year for well over a decade until now. While a single year increase does not necessarily mean that our progress has ceased, this recent up-tick is proof that there is no time for complacency in our state when it comes to teen pregnancy.

Take Action
We can take this opportunity to turn bad news into positive action. As the 2008 General Assembly session approaches, let your elected officials know that our state must make teen pregnancy prevention a top priority in order to maintain a downward trend in our teen pregnancy rates. Stay tuned to these G-CAPP Policy & Advocacy Updates for more information on what you can do to support teen pregnancy prevention efforts during the upcoming legislative session.

Save the Date for the 2008 G-CAPP Legislative Reception
Plan to join G-CAPP at our 2008 Legislative Reception, taking place on February 27th from 5:00–7:00PM at the Georgia Freight Depot. This annual event is an important opportunity to thank state legislators and officials who work to support Georgia's adolescents, and to share our policy priorities with state leaders during the legislative session. More information will be coming soon.

G-CAPP Fast Fact
In 2006, 17,665 girls between the ages of 15 and 19 gave birth in Georgia.

Source: Georgia DHR, Division of Public Health, Online Analytical Statistical Information System, OASIS.