HARRISBURG – The state Senate approved critical funding for hospitals and frontline health care workers, according to Senator David G. Argall (R-Berks/Schuylkill), who voted in favor of the bill.
“Our local hospitals have sacrificed so much to keep us all safe throughout the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Senator Argall. “I’m thankful the Senate approved this important funding to ensure they continue to have the financial support they need.”
House Bill 253 would provide a total of $225 million to hospitals and their employees. The additional dollars will be allocated as follows:
- $100 million for acute care general hospitals
- $110 million for critical access hospitals, facilities with a high volume of Medicaid patients, and behavioral/psychiatric providers.
- $15 million for the PA Student Loan Relief for Nurses Program
The legislation requires the funding to be directed to retention and recruitment programs for staff. Hospital executives and administration, contracted staff, and physicians would not be eligible for payments.
Contact: Jim Brugger
717.787.2637