S. 4357In committeeHealth care
Federal grants would fund hazard pay for health workers
Data as of July 11, 2026
This bill would create federal grants so hospitals and clinics can pay qualifying health care workers up to $13/hr extra during declared emergencies.55-second read · 5 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
This bill would set up a federal grant program for public and nonprofit hospitals, clinics, and home health agencies. The grants would let those employers pay extra hazard pay to certain health care workers during declared emergencies or disasters, such as a pandemic or major hurricane. Grant money could also cover protective equipment or alternative transportation for workers with hazardous commutes.
Who does it affect?
Eligible workers include doctors, nurses, aides, medical technologists, public health workers, orderlies, and janitors in health care settings, as long as their job cannot be done remotely.
Why does it matter?
Declared emergencies can create added physical risk for health care workers who must still report in person. This program would give employers a funding source to offer extra pay and protections during those periods.
What does it cost, and who pays?
- Extra pay capped at $13/hr above wages
- Max $25,000/yr per worker
- Congress sets actual spending
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- Senate committee — You are here
- Senate vote
- House
- President's desk
Right now: a Senate committee is reviewing it. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the President.
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Official title
Hazard Pay for Health Care Heroes Act
- Introduced:
- April 21, 2026
- Latest action:
- April 21, 2026
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Three steps: where you stand, your script, the call.