HB0194 Summary: Outdoor Rx Program Act

• Creates the Outdoor Rx Program to provide grants through the Department of Public Health for outdoor environmental, ecological, agricultural, or nature-based therapy programs serving Illinois citizens, subject to appropriation.

• Establishes an Outdoor Rx Program Fund as a special fund in the state treasury and allows the Department to accept gifts, grants, and donations from any source for deposit into the Fund.

• Requires the Department to establish a 7-member advisory committee including representatives from Public Health, Natural Resources, Veterans' Affairs, Environmental Protection Agency, business community, and outdoor organizations to develop grant applications and advise on program administration.

• Sets grant eligibility priorities including programs that utilize veterans for at least 50% implementation, create public-private partnerships, use state parks or natural venues, employ research-based therapy, and include program evaluation and reporting of effectiveness.

• Designates the Director of Public Health to make final funding decisions after reviewing Department recommendations and Advisory Committee input; requires annual reports to the General Assembly on Fund deposits, disbursements, grant recipients, and a financial plan.