Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026

Floor Speech

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Ms. TOKUDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 7148 because for rural communities like mine in Hawaii, this bill isn't abstract policy. It is about whether people can get care and whether caregivers can keep going.

I have met grandparents caring for grandchildren, parents caring for children with disabilities, and adult children caring for aging loved ones, often with no backup and no break.

That is why the 5-year reauthorization of the Lifespan Respite Care Program in this bill, which I was proud to co-lead with Representative Langworthy, matters so deeply. Respite care isn't a luxury. It is the difference between a caregiver burning out and a family staying together.

This bill also reauthorizes the Teaching Health Center GME program, the National Health Services Corps, extends telehealth, and increases funding for critical rural health programs. Taken together, these investments will grow the workforce, expand access to care, and improve health outcomes.

Providers and patients need certainty now. Rural health systems are fragile, and delays have real consequences. Passing this bill will change lives and save lives, and we cannot afford to wait.

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