Texas Health Departments Prepare for Additional $119 Million Federal Budget Reductions

Texas officials have alerted local public health departments to prepare for an impending reduction of $119 million in federal funding at the month's end. This cut could significantly hinder the state's efforts in disease detection and prevention, including programs focused on HIV, diabetes, vaccine outreach, and emergency preparedness. This announcement follows the federal government's earlier decision to reclaim $700 million in unspent COVID-19 funds, which had been partly allocated for combating measles in West Texas. Three months post the biennial legislative session, the Texas Department of State Health Services now lacks the opportunity to seek additional state support. Although lawmakers increased agency funding by $86 million, the impending loss of $685 million in federal grants poses significant challenges. Imelda Garcia, the chief deputy commissioner of the health agency, expressed concerns over potential impacts on crucial programs. Cuts could threaten initiatives that bolster vaccination rates, prepare communities for health emergencies, and address chronic disease prevention.