Press Releases

WASHINGTON – Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) issued the following statement after President Trump signed an executive order yesterday to enhance healthcare in rural communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, including a permanent extension of Medicare payments for telehealth services for medical providers in an effort to ensure the expansion of virtual care outlasts the pandemic. 

President Trump’s Executive Order follows action from Congressman Wittman earlier this year when he wrote to the President requesting the prioritization of direct funding support for rural broadband development in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Congressman Wittman has been working throughout the year to expand telehealth, telelearning, and teleworking services through increased high-speed broadband access for VA-01. In June, he hosted a virtual Fireside Chat with FCC Chairman Ajit Pai and local government leaders, tribal leaders, and key Virginia broadband stakeholders to discuss the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) work on rural broadband buildout, the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF), and what the FCC is doing during to help communities during the Coronavirus pandemic. 

In March, Congressman Wittman introduced the Serving Rural America Act. This legislation would create a pilot grant program at the FCC authorizing $500 million over five years to expand broadband service to unserved areas of the country. Under the act, grants would be awarded to eligible applicants that would consist of a partnership between an internet service provider and a locality—such as a county or planning district commission.

“I am glad to see this Executive Order by President Trump which will enhance the provision of vital telehealth services to people in underserved communities. This Order echoes the priorities I have worked on throughout the year calling for expanded broadband coverage in rural communities. It also includes provisions from my legislation I proposed earlier this year and requests from the letter I sent the President in June to include extending the availability of certain telehealth services after the current public health emergency ends.

“Increased telehealth options are crucial to ensure those we love, including our senior community, stay safe and limit the spread of COVID-19. Expanding telehealth services is incredibly important and I am glad the President is making this a priority. I will continue working with the Administration and my colleagues in Congress to achieve real results for our rural healthcare providers and our region.”

Congressman Wittman’s leadership on the issue of rural broadband dates back more than 20 years, and in Congress he has led key initiatives to expand broadband access through programs such as the First District Broadband Task Force and as Co-Chair of the House Rural Broadband Caucus.

Congressman Rob Wittman represents the 1st District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee, where he serves as the ranking member of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee.