WHEREAS, rural communities in Nevada and throughout the United States are exceptional places to live, work and volunteer; and

WHEREAS, nearly 61 million people (19.7% of the U.S. population) and 86% of the country's land area are considered rural; and

WHEREAS, the health and well-being of our citizens are of utmost importance to our great state; and

WHEREAS, rural communities often experience barriers such as limited access to healthcare services, shortages of healthcare providers, transportation challenges, an aging population with higher rates of chronic conditions, and a greater proportion of uninsured and underinsured citizens; and

WHEREAS, rural communities are resilient, resourceful, and innovative - meeting challenges with creativity and collaboration; and

WHEREAS, rural America offers meaningful opportunities for dedicated health professionals to deliver high-quality, personalized care and essential health services; and

WHEREAS, the training of healthcare professionals is critical in meeting the current and future healthcare needs of rural Nevada; and

WHEREAS, Nevada/National Rural Health Day established by the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH) and the Nevada State Office of Rural Health and observed annually on the third Thursday of November highlights the unique healthcare needs and opportunities in rural communities;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOE LOMBARDO, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF NEVADA, do hereby proclaim November 20, 2025, as

RURAL HEALTH DAY IN NEVADA