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Govt. Affairs

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Grant funding symbol. Beautiful wooden table. Business financing and grants concept. Copy space.

At midnight on May 1, 2026, the Department of Human Services will open applications for the first opportunity to receive Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) funding. $25M of grants will be awarded, with a $1M maximum per qualified hospital, healthcare provider, and rural health facility for equipment, supplies, renovations, or structural improvements.

Key Details:

  • Application Dates: May, 1 2026 – June 1, 2026, or until the authorized funding cap has been met, whichever is sooner.
  • Total Available Funding: $25 million
  • Payment Amounts: $10,000 – $1,000,000
  • Qualified Entities: Hospitals, healthcare providers, or rural health facilities within specific regions

To receive an RHTP payment, qualified entities must complete and submit the eligibility certification. The payment must stabilize or enhance rural health care access, promote rural well-being, and fall under one of the six initiatives in the Department’s federally approved RHTP application:

  • Aging and Access;
  • Behavioral Health;
  • Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Transportation;
  • Maternal Health;
  • Technology and Infrastructure; or
  • Workforce

Please note, this RHTP payment is an initial opportunity. If you do not qualify for this RHTP payment and want to apply for funding for other purposes, a future opportunity may be a better fit.

See the PA Bulletin announcement here. Please contact RCPA COO Jim Sharp with any questions.

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ADvancing States, in partnership with the National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disabilities and the National Association of Medicaid Directors, is excited to share a new infographic on the purpose, value, and impact of Medicaid HCBS. This resource includes an overview of key services, facts, and figures on HCBS utilization and spending, and trends and growth through rebalancing efforts. ADvancing States encourages members to use and share this infographic as a foundation for conversations about Medicaid HCBS. Use this link to view and download the infographic.

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The Department of Human Services (DHS) recently announced that Governor Shapiro signed three new executive orders (EO) to benefit people with disabilities. The following information comes from the Office of Long-Term Living:

The first Executive Order rescinds and replaces EO 2002-5 and will protect the rights, dignity, and privacy of people with disabilities by reaffirming the Commonwealth’s longstanding nondiscrimination commitment and emphasizing the need that these protections require renewed attention and action, not just compliance. This order will ensure data collection by Commonwealth agencies is limited to the minimum data necessary and proper processes are followed by Commonwealth agencies, including collection in health care, research, and compliance in the law.

The Governor’s second Executive Order rescinds EO 2006-09 and EO 2016-03 and establishes the Governor’s Advisory Commission on People with Disabilities, which will consist of up to 30 volunteer members, appointed by the Governor, including individuals with disabilities, family members, or those with relevant expertise. The members will serve two-year terms. The new commissioners will recommend policy changes across the disabilities spectrum, engage with federal/state/local agencies, communicate Administration initiatives to the public, and compile information on programs, funding, and additional supports to create an inclusive resource for individuals with disabilities and their family members across Pennsylvania.

Individuals interested in the Governor’s Advisory Commission on People with Disabilities Executive Director position, may apply here or by visiting the Commonwealth of PA – Opportunities for All Job Seekers page.

The third Executive Order rescinds EO 1997-2 and reestablishes the Development Disabilities (DD) Council so that it can continue to fulfill Pennsylvania’s obligations under the federal Developmental Disabilities Act. The independently operated DD Council is more narrowly focused than the newly-created Commission and will advise the Governor on all matters affecting individuals with developmental disabilities in Pennsylvania, and advocate for improved independence, productivity, and community inclusion. The Council will continue to develop and implement a statewide plan and advocate for systemic change across the Commonwealth.

More information about the Governor’s press release and the three new Executive Orders can be found on the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Newsroom page.

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The Rehabilitation and Community Providers Association Political Action Committee (RCPA PAC) is asking members to consider making a personal contribution to the PAC. With these donations, we have been successful in supporting legislative leadership who understand the severe challenges facing many of our providers. These representatives are willing to stand up for our issues as we fight to move Pennsylvania forward.

We urge you to view our 2026 Legislative & Administrative Priorities to see how RCPA is working, and will continue to work, for you. We are able to achieve these goals thanks to our members’ dedication and contributions.

Make an online contribution and advocate for yourself today. While the request is voluntary, we encourage you to make a contribution of $100, $250, $350, $500, or more to the RCPA PAC. If you are interested, you can also consider making a recurring monthly donation.

If you have any questions regarding the RCPA PAC or making a donation, please contact Jack Phillips, Director, Government Affairs.

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Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Congressman Morgan Griffith (VA-09), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Health, recently announced a hearing titled Healthier America: Legislative Proposals to Improve Public Health.

The hearing, scheduled for April 15, 2026, at 10:15 am, will focus on the bills below that address various areas of public health, including disease research and prevention efforts, bolstering resources for rural medical services and health care providers, promoting healthy activities, and increasing access to care.

The hearing will be open to the public and will be livestreamed online.

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