Lawmakers launch rural hospital caucus

NORWALK — Ohio lawmakers have launched a new caucus to protect and improve health care access in rural communities. State Rep. Kellie Deeter, R-Norwalk, and Meredith Craig, R-Smithville, have announced the formation of the Ohio House Rural Hospital Caucus, a new bipartisan initiative aimed at protecting and strengthening rural health care across the state. "With new developments at the federal level and the creation of the rural health fund, the time for the state of Ohio to act is now," Deeter said. "Keeping health care in our communities is vital." The caucus will focus on advocating for sustainable funding, improving access to care and supporting the recruitment and retention of health care professionals in rural areas. It will also serve as a policy forum to address the needs of Ohio's rural health care system and ensure quality care is available to all Ohioans, regardless of geography, according to a news release. "Year after year, rural hospitals consolidate or close," Craig said. "It is time for the state to step up and find a way to help." The announcement comes as the federal government rolls out the One Big Beautiful Bill, which established the rural health fund — a $50 billion initiative to support rural hospitals nationwide. Who's on the caucus? Ohio has also introduced the Rural/Southern Ohio Hospital Tax Pilot Program as part of its 2026-27 state operating Budget, according to a news release. Members of the Ohio House Rural Hospital Caucus include: • State Rep. Kellie Deeter, chair • State Rep. Meredith Craig, chair • State Rep. Adam Holmes • State Rep. Angie King • State Rep. Anita Somani • State Rep. Dani Isaacsohn • State Rep. David Thomas • State Rep. Gary Click • State Rep. Jodi Salvo • State Rep. Justin Pizzulli • State Rep. Kevin Ritter • State Rep. Marilyn John • State Rep. Mark Hiner • State Rep. Melanie Miller • State Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel • State Rep. Nick Santucci • State Rep. Rachel Baker • State Rep. Tim Barhorst • State Rep. Ty Moore