Bill > HR4272

This bill aims to prioritize and support rural health care facilities by modifying the Community Facilities program for fiscal years 2026 through 2031. Specifically, the Secretary of Agriculture will be required to give priority to loan and grant applications from entities developing health care facilities or mental and behavioral health facilities, including certified community behavioral health clinics. The bill allows recipients of these funds to use the money for a variety of purposes, such as purchasing medical supplies, enhancing telehealth capabilities (including improving underlying health information systems), supporting staffing needs (with a cap of 25% of funds for this purpose), and renovating or remodeling closed health care facilities. The legislation also prevents the Secretary of Agriculture from making any national reprioritizations within the Community Facilities direct loan and grant programs during this period, ensuring that the focus remains on supporting rural health care infrastructure and services. By providing flexible funding and prioritizing rural health facilities, the bill seeks to address healthcare access challenges in rural communities.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4272/all-info