WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) and Congresswoman Yadira Caraveo, M.D. (CO-08) introduced the bipartisan Rural Wellness Act, legislation that would reauthorize USDA Rural Development's (RD) Distance Learning and Telemedicine Program, which provides competitive grants to help rural communities use advanced technology projects, such as telemedicine projects that provide substance use disorder treatment. 

“Farmers and residents of rural communities are at an increased disadvantage when it comes to mental health and substance-use treatment and services,” said Rep. Finstad. “I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Rep. Caraveo to help address this need and make sure rural communities in southern Minnesota and across the country have access to the critical tools and technology they need to combat the devastating effects of mental health and substance-use challenges.” 

“Our rural communities are too often overlooked and underserved. From mental health support, to childcare, to disability accessibility, Coloradans shouldn’t have to live near major cities to access the resources they need,” said Rep. Caraveo. “Every Coloradan deserves the opportunity to thrive, wherever they live, and I’m proud to serve as the Ranking Member on the Rural Development Subcommittee so I can best advocate for these families.”

“The National Rural Health Association (NRHA) applauds Representatives Finstad and Caraveo for their introduction of the Rural Wellness Act to prioritize grant applications that address behavioral and mental health in critical Rural Development programs. This legislation will help to ensure that rural communities have adequate access to local, much needed behavioral health services. We look forward to continuing to work with Congress to address the behavioral health shortage in rural areas.” – Alan Morgan, Chief Executive Officer of the National Rural Health Association.

The Rural Wellness Act is also endorsed by the National Association of County Behavioral Health and Developmental Disability Directors (NACBHDD) and the National Association for Rural Mental Health (NARMH). 

Background:

The Rural Wellness Act would reauthorize USDA Rural Development's (RD) Distance Learning and Telemedicine Program through Fiscal Year (FY) 2028, including a 17 percent set-aside for telemedicine projects that provide substance use disorder treatment. Moreover, this legislation would improve the program by including language prioritizing behavioral and mental health treatment services.

Eligible areas include communities with populations of 20,000 or fewer, and funds may be used for telemedicine equipment, broadband facilities, and technology. Awards range from $50,000 to $1 million with a minimum 15 percent match requirement.