Congresswoman Schrier Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Invest in Rural Health Care

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) introduced the Improving Care in Rural America Reauthorization Act, a bipartisan bill that would reauthorize critical federal grants focused on improving rural health care. Congresswoman Schrier is joined in introducing this legislation by Representatives Carter (GA-01), Figures (AL-02), and Rulli (OH-06).

"The Eighth District is nearly 10,000 square miles, with many of my constituents living in rural communities that depend on a scarce number of medical providers in their area. In Congress, I'm focused on supporting rural health care to ensure that Americans can get care close to home," said Congresswoman Schrier. "As a doctor, I understand the importance of rural clinics and hospitals. Without them, patients, including those in my district, would have to drive even farther to seek medical care. That's dangerous in an emergency. That's why I'm proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to extend key federal grants that strengthen rural health care."

Grants like the Rural Health Care Services Outreach, Rural Health Network Development, and Small Health Care Provider Quality Improvement grants enhance health care access and quality for rural Americans. These grants are distributed across the United States to improve the quality and delivery of health care services in rural areas, and establish integrated health care networks. Funding for these grants is set to expire at the end of FY25. Congresswoman Schrier's bill would reauthorize funding through FY30.

Congresswoman Schrier has long worked with both parties to strengthen rural health care. Examples are the Rural Physician Workforce Production Actand the Rural Obstetrics Readiness Act.

"Health care outcomes should not be dependent on a patient's zip code. We must ensure that vitally important health services are able to reach people in all communities, which is exactly what the Rural Health Care Services Outreach Programs do," said Congressman Carter. "Reauthorizing these programs will continue President Trump's legacy of supporting rural communities' chronic health care needs through flexible, community-driven solutions."

"Improving rural health care is one of my top priorities, and I am proud to support this bipartisan legislation," said Congressman Figures. "This bill reauthorizes critical programs that will strengthen access to quality health care in my district and other communities across the country."

"Week after week, we hear ridiculous stories of taxpayer money being sent to shadowy organizations overseas. Meanwhile, rural communities here at home are left behind, struggling to access the care they deserve," said Congressman Rulli. "That's why I'm proud to stand with Congressman Carter today in sponsoring the Improving Care in Rural America Reauthorization Act of 2025. This reauthorization ensures that grants supporting healthcare in our underserved communities will continue-and taxpayer dollars will go where they're needed most: to the American people."