Critical Access Hospital RIP Act of 2026

This bill seeks to safeguard the designation of Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs), which are vital for rural communities. It amends the Social Security Act to ensure that facilities previously designated as CAHs do not lose this status solely because of subsequent roadway or transportation infrastructure improvements.

Specifically, if a CAH would no longer meet an eligibility criterion due to such improvements made after its initial designation, it will be deemed to continue meeting that criterion. These improvements encompass the construction, realignment, widening, or enhancement of highways or roadways, as well as the construction or modification of bridges, overpasses, or tunnels. This measure aims to prevent essential rural healthcare providers from losing their critical status and associated funding due to enhanced transportation access.