H.R.1417 - Rural Health Care Facility Technical Assistance Program Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 1417, the Rural Health Care Facility Technical Assistance Program Act, aims to expand and codify the existing Rural Hospital Technical Assistance Program under the Department of Agriculture. The bill renames the program and broadens its scope to include various rural health care facilities. It authorizes appropriations of up to $2,000,000 annually from 2026 through 2030 to fund technical assistance and training programs.
Expected Effects
The bill would likely improve the financial stability and operational efficiency of rural health care facilities. It will also help these facilities access and compete for USDA loans and grants. Ultimately, this could prevent closures and strengthen healthcare delivery in underserved rural areas.
Potential Benefits
- Improved access to healthcare services in rural areas.
- Enhanced financial stability for rural healthcare facilities.
- Increased availability of technical assistance and training.
- Better access to USDA loans and grants for eligible facilities.
- Potential for modernization and expansion of rural healthcare infrastructure.
Potential Disadvantages
- Limited funding may not address all needs.
- Potential for bureaucratic inefficiencies in program implementation.
- Prioritization of existing borrowers/grantees may exclude some deserving facilities.
- Reporting requirements could create an administrative burden.
- The program's effectiveness depends on the quality of technical assistance provided.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). It also aligns with Congress's power to tax and spend for the general welfare (Article I, Section 8). The focus on rural healthcare addresses a specific need and does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).