Bill > HR5377

This bill, known as the "Rural Health Training Opportunities Act," aims to modify the Health Profession Opportunity Grants program by introducing two key provisions: first, it requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to give preference to grant applications that propose demonstration projects serving rural areas, either where participants live, where the project is conducted, or where employers committed to hiring project graduates are located; second, it mandates that grant-funded projects include a comprehensive transportation assistance plan to help participants overcome mobility barriers. The transportation plan must either refer participants to subsidized transportation programs or provide direct payments to cover transportation costs, including public transit or personal vehicle gasoline expenses when public transit is unavailable. Additionally, the bill requires the Secretary to submit periodic reports to congressional committees detailing the number of grant applications received and approved, with a specific focus on rural-oriented projects, and an assessment of how these demonstration projects address workforce shortages and in-demand jobs in rural areas. The amendments will take effect on October 1, 2025, providing time for implementation and preparation.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5377/all-info