Congressman Dave Taylor (OH-02) announced that two of his community project funding requests were approved in the recent government funding package, H.R. 5371, passed by the House of Representatives on November 12. The funding, included in the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies section of the bill, will support critical healthcare improvements in rural southern Ohio.
“I’m pleased to announce the return of nearly $2 million of taxpayer dollars to southern Ohio, delivered directly through the passage of two of my Fiscal Year 2026 Community Project Funding requests,” Taylor said. “In regions like ours in rural Appalachia, Ohioans are forced to travel long distances to receive care. These federal dollars will help bridge the gap in healthcare accessibility so that no one is left without sufficient care.”
Adena Health to Expand EMS Fleet
Adena Health will receive $750,000 to expand its internal EMS fleet. The funding will add two fully equipped ambulances at Adena Regional Medical Center, improving inter-facility transfers, patient discharges, and urgent non-emergency transport.
“We’re incredibly grateful for Congressman Taylor’s leadership in securing this critical investment,” said Adena Health President and CEO Kathi Edrington. “This funding will reduce wait times, improve operational efficiency, and increase the availability of rooms for our patients and their families. It’s a win for everyone we serve across south central and southern Ohio.”
Reliable transportation has long been a barrier to care in rural communities, particularly for seniors and low-income patients, according to Adena’s Community Health Needs Assessment. The expanded EMS capacity will help ensure patients can access critical healthcare services when they need them most.
Holzer Health System to Modernize Laboratory Operations
Holzer Health System will receive $999,000 to consolidate its hospital laboratory services, combining Anatomic Pathology and Microbiology operations at its main campus. The project will include the installation of a new air handling unit, enabling better space utilization and improved patient care, particularly in behavioral health services.
“Holzer is thrilled to receive federal support for modernizing our laboratory infrastructure,” said Dr. Rodney Stout, CEO of Holzer Health System. “This funding allows us to consolidate operations that were previously delayed due to financial constraints and will greatly enhance our ability to serve patients across southern Ohio. We appreciate the support of Congressman Taylor, Senator Husted, and Senator Moreno in understanding the unique challenges of rural healthcare.”
About Congressman Dave Taylor
Congressman Taylor represents Ohio’s Second Congressional District, which includes Clermont, Clinton, Pike, Adams, Brown, Highland, Ross, Scioto, Pickaway, Hocking, Vinton, Jackson, Lawrence, and Gallia counties, part of Fayette County, and Meigs County. He serves on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the House Agriculture Committee. Prior to Congress, he worked as an assistant prosecutor in Clermont County and served as president of his family’s concrete business.
For more information on Congressman Taylor and his work, visit taylor.house.gov.
