Chronic or significant trauma including but not limited to abuse, neglect and household dysfunction could negatively affect a child’s developing brain and body, continuing its negative impacts into adulthood. These impacts are severe enough that researchers, practitioners, and policy makers view ACEs, untreated, as a threat to public health. 

The LWVM finds credible evidence that ACEs research identifies a significant risk to the health and well-being of community residents.  Based on the growing body of research on ACEs, and evidence-based practices of working with individuals who had experienced ACEs, it is important for service providers working with individuals affected by Adverse Childhood Experiences to receive current training and continuing education on this topic.  It was apparent during this study that Moscow and Latah County have gaps in community ACEs awareness, ACEs training for local organizations, and assistance to reduce the regional impact and incidence of ACEs. 

Given the complexity of the ACEs issue and its rapidly emerging science, we believe our local organizations and professionals need additional help bringing ACEs training and responsive programs to Latah County.  

The LWVUS and LWVID have relevant position statements addressing medical and behavioral health care and the LWVM has a relevant position statement on poverty. 

In addition to those positions and specific to ACEs, League of Women Voters of Moscow will:

• Advocate for additional training and education for community members related to ACEs, including strategies that are effective in mitigating ACEs impacts.  
• Advocate for local training specifically designed for those working with children and adults impacted by ACEs.
• Advocate for the Idaho Legislature to pass a concurrent resolution regarding ACEs such as the one passed in Utah and other states. 

Read the full ACES Study. 

APROVED 12/3/19