Aderholt Underscores Strengthening American Health and Well-Being During Hearing with HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.

Washington, D.C. - Today, Robert Aderholt (R-AL), Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, underscored the critical need to strengthen public health systems and enhance the well-being of Americans. The hearing featured testimony from U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., who discussed the Department's FY26 priorities.

"Despite spending nearly $2 trillion annually on health care, America continues to face unacceptable health outcomes," said Chairman Aderholt. "We need bold, innovative approaches-not simply more spending-to truly improve the health of our citizens. I'm encouraged by Secretary Kennedy's willingness to bring fresh perspectives and reforms to HHS."

During his opening remarks, Chairman Aderholt welcomed Secretary Kennedy, noting his recent confirmation and swift engagement in the Administration's "Make America Healthy Again" initiative. Aderholt expressed his hope that Kennedy's leadership will catalyze needed reforms and restore public trust in health agencies.

Chairman Aderholt specifically highlighted key challenges facing rural communities like those in Alabama-including disproportionately high rates of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, coupled with mounting pressures on rural hospitals and persistent shortages in the health care workforce.

"The health care challenges in rural America are urgent and deeply personal for the communities we serve," Aderholt noted. "I'm committed to working with Secretary Kennedy to find practical, life-affirming solutions to protect access to care and support our rural hospitals and providers."

Aderholt also praised the Secretary's commitment to protecting the sanctity of life and the conscience rights of medical professionals, stating, "As a strong supporter of the right to life, I appreciate Secretary Kennedy's pledge to uphold these fundamental values."

During the hearing, Chairman Aderholt raised concerns about previous actions taken under the Biden administration that undermined pro-life protections. He cited reports that the CDC funded abortion-related activities overseas in violation of the Helms Amendment, and that Title X funding had been denied to states for not providing abortion counseling, contrary to their laws.

Additionally, the Congressman acknowledged the public health impact of President Trump's success in curbing illegal border crossings, including the 54% reduction in fentanyl inflow and a sharp decline in the trafficking of unaccompanied minors. "The President's actions at the border are not only a national security issue but a public health victory as well," he said.

The hearing also focused on proposed structural reforms at HHS, including the creation of a new Administration for a Healthy America and efforts to overhaul the National Institutes of Health. Aderholt expressed optimism about these initiatives and reiterated his commitment to a collaborative legislative process.

"Reforming Washington is never easy," Aderholt concluded, "but we in Congress stand ready to work with the Secretary and the Administration to deliver lasting, meaningful improvements to our health care system."

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