Ohio House of Representatives
07/28/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/28/2025 12:48
Representatives Deeter and Craig Announce Formation of House Rural Hospital Caucus
COLUMBUS-State Representatives Kellie Deeter (R-Norwalk) and Meredith Craig (R-Smithville) recently announced the formation of the Ohio House Rural Hospital Caucus, a new effort focused on protecting and strengthening rural healthcare across the state.
Rural hospitals are vital healthcare partners for their regions, providing emergency care, employment opportunities, and overall community wellbeing, yet they face growing challenges. Rising operational costs, shrinking reimbursements, and recent global health crises have placed unprecedented strain on rural healthcare infrastructure.
The federal government has turned its attention to rural hospitals through the One Big Beautiful Bill, which established the Rural Health Fund. This fund allocates $50 billion to be distributed to states in support of rural hospitals. Additionally, the Rural (Southern) Ohio Hospital Tax Pilot Program was created under the State Operating Budget for fiscal years 2026-27.
"Keeping healthcare in our communities is vital," said Deeter. "With new developments at the federal level and the creation of The Rural Health Fund, the time for the State of Ohio to act is now."
"Year after year rural hospitals consolidate or close," said Craig. "It is time for the state to step up and find a way to help."
The newly formed caucus aims to advocate for sustainable funding, better access to care, and improved recruitment and retention of healthcare professionals in rural areas. The caucus will also serve as a policy forum to address the unique needs of Ohio's rural healthcare system and ensure quality care is available to every Ohioan, regardless of geography.
Members of the caucus include:
- State Rep. Kellie Deeter (Chair)
- State Rep. Meredith Craig (Chair)
- State Rep. Adam Holmes
- State Rep. Angie King
- State Rep. Anita Somani
- State Rep. Dani Isaacsohn
- State Rep. David Thomas
- State Rep. Gary Click
- State Rep. Jodi Salvo
- State Rep. Justin Pizzulli
- State Rep. Kevin Ritter
- State Rep. Marilyn John
- State Rep. Mark Hiner
- State Rep. Melanie Miller
- State Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel
- State Rep. Nick Santucci
- State Rep. Rachel Baker
- State Rep. Tim Barhorst
- State Rep. Ty Moore
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