Two state representatives received an award Wednesday for their work in supporting public health care. The Montana Public Health Association presented the President's Award to former representative Dan Villa of Anaconda and Gordon Hendrick of Superior at an annual luncheon.

The Association credits the representatives for supporting House Bill 173 which gives state money for health assistance to folks who live in rural Montana. Representative Hendrick credits public health nurses with the success.

"It was a great opportunity for me in my third term to be able to come before Montana and actually help out and feel confident we were going to accomplish what we set out to do," said Montana Representative Gordon Hendrick.

The MPHA also awarded several other standout individuals for their contributions to public health.

-Breanna Roy reporting from KPAX in Missoula.