Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Healthcare Workforce topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Senate advances bill to fund fifth Area Health Education Center with $1.3 million one‑time appropriation
Summary
The Senate advanced SB 31 to third reading after sponsors said a corrected fiscal note provides a one‑year $1.3 million appropriation to complete a fifth Area Health Education Center at Weber State University and support operations.
Senators advanced Senate Bill 31, which would finalize a fifth Area Health Education Center (AHEC) intended to expand health-care training and recruitment in rural Utah areas. Sponsor explained that the bill includes a corrected fiscal note showing a one-time appropriation of $1,300,000 for FY 2001–2002 to the University of Utah Health Science Center to complete the fifth center and cover initial operations.
Senator Julander, speaking from her experience as a health-care provider, urged colleagues to support the bill, saying AHECs have helped increase the number of health professionals in rural areas and had a clear educational and recruitment benefit. She said the centers expose junior- and high-school students to a range of health-care careers and help retain providers in underserved communities.
The Senate vote to advance SB 31 to the third reading calendar carried with 21 ayes, five nays and three absences. Sponsor and supporters noted the appropriation is for one year only and that committee amendments reflected the corrected fiscal note.
If enacted, the legislation would place the fifth AHEC at Weber State University and provide targeted funding intended to support rural health professional recruitment and training.
