Governor Greg Abbott announced the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will award $56 million in federal funding to rural hospitals advancing prevention, wellness, and nutrition programs in their communities.
“Rural Texans deserve access to quality care,” said Abbott. This $56 million investment will help expand care, combat chronic disease, and bring prevention and nutrition resources directly to the communities that need them the most. We are backing rural hospitals and ensuring that all Texans — no matter where they live — have the chance to live a better, healthier life.”
As part of the Rural Texas Strong plan, the “Make Rural Texans Healthy Again” initiative supports rural hospitals in improving health outcomes and chronic conditions. The initiative aims to reduce diabetes, heart disease, chronic respiratory disease, and obesity.
Rural hospitals can use federal funding to expand screenings, after-hours care, community wellness services, and availability of healthy food. “Good health starts with reliable access to care and nutritious food,” said HHS Executive Commissioner Stephanie Muth. “This investment helps rural communities strengthen prevention efforts and support long-term health.”
(See “Texas unemployment ” continued on page 2) Texas’ civilian labor force registered at 15,916,600 after decreasing by 25,200 over the month. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 82,200 people.
“The hard work of Texas employers—especially the 3.5 million small businesses across the state— is driving our economic strength and robust job creation,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “By supporting initiatives like the Governor’s Small Business Summits across the state, the Texas Workforce Commission is empowering these vital contributors to our economy and ensuring their continued success.”
The Professional and Business Services industry had the largest private sector over the month increase in March after adding 14,900 jobs. Trade, Transportation, and Utilities added 13,500 jobs over the month while Leisure and Hospitality added 6,800. Construction posted the highest annual growth rate of any major industry for the 20th month in a row at 2.4 percent in March.
“New career opportunities are consistently emerging across the state, and we are committed to helping Texans access them,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III.
“Through apprenticeship initiatives and comprehensive workforce development programs, we are helping people of all abilities and backgrounds—from foster youth to second chance individuals—find paths to meaningful careers.”
“Texas continues to be a powerhouse for job creation, adding more than 117,000 jobs over the year, thanks to the dynamic economy fostered by the Texas Workforce Commission and our many local partners,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett.
“We are committed to bridging the gap between employers' needs and our incredibly skilled workforce, so we can take our talent to the next level.”
The Texas Labor Market Information Data for April is scheduled to be released on May 22.