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Bill

HR 4796

Restoring Essential Healthcare Act

119th Congress Introduced by Gabe Amo and 144 co-sponsors

The Restoring Essential Healthcare Act allows Medicaid payments to previously barred providers, improving access to care for low-income patients and supporting vital services.

Introduced in House
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Bill Summary · HR 4796

Summary of HR 4796 - Restoring Essential Healthcare Act

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: HR 4796
  • Title: Restoring Essential Healthcare Act
  • Status: Introduced in House
  • Introduced On: July 29, 2025
  • Primary Sponsor: Laura Friedman
  • Cosponsors: Over 100 members of Congress from various states

Purpose and Intent

The Restoring Essential Healthcare Act aims to amend Public Law 119–21 by repealing the prohibition on making Medicaid payments to certain entities. This legislation seeks to restore funding for healthcare services provided by these entities, which may include community health organizations and other healthcare providers that were previously restricted from receiving Medicaid reimbursements.

Key Provisions

  • Repeal of Prohibition: The bill specifically targets Section 71113 of Public Law 119–21, which currently prohibits Medicaid payments to certain entities defined as "prohibited entities."
  • Retroactive Payments: The bill stipulates that any items or services provided as medical assistance under a state Medicaid plan (or waiver) by these prohibited entities from the enactment of Public Law 119–21 until the enactment of this bill will be eligible for payment as if the prohibition had never been enacted.

Impact

  • Affected Entities: The repeal will directly benefit healthcare providers that were previously barred from receiving Medicaid payments, potentially including clinics, hospitals, and other healthcare organizations that serve low-income populations.
  • Beneficiaries: Patients who rely on these providers for essential healthcare services will likely experience improved access to care, as the financial barriers to these services will be reduced.
  • State Medicaid Programs: States will need to adjust their Medicaid payment structures to accommodate the changes mandated by this bill, which may involve administrative updates and potential increases in Medicaid expenditures.

Legislative Process

  • Committee Referral: Upon introduction, HR 4796 was referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce for further consideration.
  • Next Steps: The bill will undergo discussions and potential amendments within the committee before it can be brought to the floor for a vote.

Conclusion

The Restoring Essential Healthcare Act represents a significant effort to enhance access to healthcare services for vulnerable populations by removing financial barriers imposed by previous legislation. By repealing the prohibition on Medicaid payments to certain entities, this bill aims to ensure that essential healthcare providers can continue to serve their communities effectively.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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