Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Subcommittee Chairman Robert Aderholt emphasized the need to strengthen public health in a hearing with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on the fiscal year 2026 priorities.
Chairman Aderholt welcomed Secretary Kennedy to the House Appropriations Committee, noting his recent confirmation three months ago and his efforts to implement President Trump's "Make America Healthy Again" initiative. Aderholt highlighted the significant federal expenditure on healthcare, which exceeds $1.9 trillion annually, yet noted that America's health outcomes are not commensurate with this investment.
"We clearly have a problem," Aderholt stated. He called for "bold and fresh ideas" to address these issues and expressed interest in Secretary Kennedy's reform efforts at HHS aimed at improving health outcomes across communities.
Aderholt pointed out specific challenges faced by rural areas like Alabama, including high rates of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, hospital closures, and workforce shortages. He expressed support for Secretary Kennedy's commitment to protecting life rights and conscience rights for medical professionals.
The chairman praised President Trump's success in securing the border as beneficial for public health by reducing drug trafficking and unaccompanied minors' entry into the country. He also looked forward to learning about Kennedy's plans for HHS reform.
Secretary Kennedy has proposed structural reforms within HHS, including creating an Administration for a Healthy America. Aderholt mentioned ongoing congressional efforts toward healthcare agency reform and looked forward to continued collaboration with HHS as they begin budget discussions.
"Implementing reforms in Washington is no easy task," acknowledged Aderholt but assured that Congress intends to partner with Secretary Kennedy in pursuit of shared goals for national health improvement.
The hearing can be watched in full online.
