Strengthening Telehealth and Education for Rural Communities Act of 2023

S 2447 allows rural communities to use telehealth and distance learning grants for operating costs like staff salaries and administrative expenses, up to 15% of the grant amount. It waives non-Federal matching fund requirements for federally recognized tribes and communities with demonstrated financial need. The bill also requires at least 20% of annual funding to support telemedicine projects focused on mental health and substance use disorder treatment. These changes apply to grants authorized through 2028, expanding access to essential health and education services in underserved areas.