Congressman Figures & Jack seeking to protect rural hospitals with new legislation

Washington, D.C. (BuzzReport) – U.S. Representative Shomari Figures, a Democrat from Alabama, is spearheading efforts to establish a federal grant program aimed at providing essential support to the nation’s rural hospitals.

The funding crisis facing rural hospitals poses a significant threat in Alabama, with over half of the state’s 52 rural hospitals at risk of closure. Figures, who represents Pike County and 12 others in the Second Congressional District, has identified five rural hospitals within his district that are particularly vulnerable.

“During our travels through the district, engaging with hospital administrators and local leaders, one persistent concern was the severe lack of funding for rural hospitals,” Figures remarked. “There are not enough federal grants available to assist with personnel costs and payroll. Many rural hospitals struggle to make payroll month after month, forcing them to rely on local funding just to stay operational.”

In response to this pressing issue, Figures, alongside U.S. Representative Brian Jack, a Republican from Georgia, introduced the bipartisan Rural Hospital Stabilization Act of 2025 this week. The proposed legislation aims to provide much-needed financial assistance to rural hospitals in Alabama, Georgia, and nationwide. It seeks to authorize two types of grants: one for the acquisition, repair, or upgrades of hospital facilities and equipment, and another to cover operational costs, including payroll and debt payments. Each rural hospital would be eligible to receive grants amounting to up to $5 million over a five-year period.

Figures emphasized the importance of rural hospital funding as a nationwide challenge that impacts everyone. Acknowledging the bipartisan nature of this issue, he collaborated with Jack to advance the legislation. “I am proud to introduce the Rural Hospital Stabilization Act of 2025 with my colleague Shomari Figures,” Jack stated. “It is imperative that we protect and enhance rural healthcare and its growth. In my district, families struggle with inadequate access to healthcare, and this legislation ensures that Georgians across the Third District receive the care they deserve.”

According to Figures, this legislation represents a critical step towards securing healthcare access in rural America. By investing in rural hospitals, the bill aims to ensure these vital facilities remain operational, safeguard jobs, and enhance health outcomes for millions of Americans. The primary objectives of the bill include:

• Preventing hospital closures by providing financial resources.
• Ensuring continued healthcare accessibility in rural areas.
• Improving hospital infrastructure to uphold high-quality care.
• Stabilizing employment within rural healthcare systems through operational funding.
• Strengthening the long-term viability of rural communities by keeping their hospitals open.

Despite the significance of this legislative effort, Figures acknowledged the challenge of bringing the bill to the House floor.