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119th Congress
Independent · Nonpartisan · Reader-supported
HOUSEH.R. 8347· 119th Congress

Bill to Address Rural Healthcare Workforce

RURAL Healthcare Act

Sponsor
Burgess Owens (R-UT)
Introduced
Apr 16, 2026
Last Action
Jul 21, 2026
Passage
38%
Introduced
Apr 16, 2026
Committee
Jul 21, 2026
3
Floor Vote
4
Both Chambers
5
Enacted
01 — The Text

What.

  • Legislation focused on healthcare staffing or employment in rural areas, though specific provisions aren't yet public.
  • Passed House Education and Workforce Committee with narrow 18-15 vote after amendments.
  • Official bill text details unavailable—Congress hasn't published summary yet.
02 — The Stakes

So what?

  • Rural communities face severe doctor and nurse shortages; this targets workforce gaps in underserved areas.
  • Affects rural hospitals, clinics, healthcare workers, and patients in areas struggling to attract medical staff.
  • Narrow committee vote (18-15) signals partisan disagreement on approach or scope.
03 — The Path

Now what?

  • Bill cleared committee in July 2026 and awaits House floor debate and vote—next formal hurdle.
  • Monitor House schedule for floor consideration; passage not guaranteed given tight committee margin.
  • Contact your House representative to learn their stance if rural healthcare matters to you.
Legislative History

Actions.

  • Jul 21, 2026Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by the Yeas and Nays: 18 - 15.
  • Jul 21, 2026Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
  • Apr 16, 2026Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
  • Apr 16, 2026Introduced in House
  • Apr 16, 2026Introduced in House