Bipartisan bill to attract health care workers to rural PA passes House

March 19, 2025

Sponsors say measure will strengthen health care access across commonwealth
HARRISBURG, March 19 – Republican and Democratic chairs of the House Health Committee Kathy Rapp and Dan Frankel joined forces Wednesday to celebrate the passage of legislation aimed at reducing health care disparities in rural areas by providing grants to health care facilities for the payment of health care workers’ education debt.

“Our rural health care providers are in crisis, facing persistent shortages that make it harder for Pennsylvanians to get the care they need,” said Rapp, R-Crawford/Forest/Warren. “This bill is a common-sense solution that benefits both medical professionals and the communities they serve. By easing the financial burden on providers, we can encourage more of them to bring their skills to rural areas, ensuring better access to quality care.”

The bill, H.B. 157, sponsored by Rapp and Frankel, received unanimous approval by the committee on Feb 5, 2025.

“When hospitals and clinics in rural areas can’t hire enough health care workers, entire communities suffer,” said Frankel, D-Allegheny. "Patients shouldn’t have to drive long distances just to see a doctor or receive emergency care. This bill prioritizes the people who make health care possible – our frontline providers – so they can continue serving the communities that need them most.”

Eligibility for the Rural Health Care Grant Program
Under the proposal, licensed nurses, physicians, midwives, dentists and dental hygienists would be eligible for grant funding through their employers if they:

• Begin practicing at a rural hospital, Federally Qualified Health Center, rural health clinic or birth center within six months of accepting a position.
• Work full-time (defined as at least 30 hours per week or 130 hours per month).
• Commit to working in the facility for a minimum of three years.

The bill now heads to the state Senate for consideration.

RAPP CONTACT: Jake Gillespie
Phone: 717-772-9834
Email: jgillespie@pahousegop.com

FRANKEL CONTACT: Liane Leshne
Phone: 978-549-1868
Email: lleshne@pahouse.net