Governor Greg Abbott attended the Texas Organization of Rural & Community Hospitals (TORCH) fall conference in Austin, where he spoke to over 350 healthcare leaders and rural advocates. During the event, Governor Abbott ceremonially signed House Bill 18 and House Bill 3000 into law, both aimed at improving healthcare in rural areas of Texas.
“The hardworking people in rural Texas provide the food, fuel, and fiber that all Texans depend on,” said Governor Abbott. “It is essential that we do more for rural Texas and rural healthcare. That is why we made one of the largest investments ever for mental health hospitals and facilities to cover the entire Panhandle and the Uvalde community. This funding will make Texas more efficient in delivering preventative healthcare. Here today, together through House Bill 18 and House Bill 3000, we are dramatically improving healthcare in rural Texas.”
Governor Abbott discussed his recent meeting with U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., where they reviewed rural healthcare initiatives alongside industry stakeholders from Texas. He noted that recent investments by both the Trump Administration and the Texas Legislature have increased support for healthcare needs in rural communities across the state. The Governor also expressed appreciation for those working in rural areas who contribute significantly to the state’s economy.
Other officials present included Senator Charles Perry, Representative Ken King, Representative Gary VanDeaver, TORCH Chair Lorenzo Serrano, TORCH Interim CEO Terry Scoggin, as well as other leaders from the healthcare sector.
House Bill 18, called the Rural Health Stabilization and Innovation Act, aims to provide strategic planning and funding to help ensure that rural hospitals and clinics remain sustainable.
House Bill 3000 creates a grant program for ambulance services operating in rural counties. This program will be administered by the Comptroller’s office to give financial assistance to eligible ambulance providers.
Additional photos from this event will be made available when ready.
