Comment Letter Opposes Proposed Rule on Gender Dysphoria Treatments for Minors
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- Governing for Impact, a regulatory policy organization dedicated to enhancing federal government efficiency, has expressed strong opposition to a proposed rule from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding treatments for minors with gender dysphoria. The public comment letter submitted to CMS outlines concerns that the proposed regulation, which seeks to prohibit certain medical services under the Medicare and Medicaid programs, would exceed the agenc more
Congressional Research Service Reports (Weekly)
Federal Contract Set-Asides for Small Businesses Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, Feb. 21 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12852) on Feb. 20, 2026, by R. Corinne Blackford, small business and economic development policy analyst.
Here are excerpts:
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Federal Contract Set-Asides for Small Businesses
Introduction
Provisions of the Small Business Act authorize or, in some cases, require federal agencies to provide small businesses a preference when making a contract award. Preferences for small b more
Sole-Source Contracts for Small Businesses Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, Feb. 21 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12853) on Feb. 20, 2026, by R. Corinne Blackford, small business and economic development policy analyst.
Here are excerpts:
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Sole-Source Contracts for Small Businesses
Introduction
Provisions of the Small Business Act authorize (and, in some cases, require) federal agencies to provide small businesses a preference when making a contract award. Preferences for small busi more
Venezuela's Natural Gas Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, Feb. 21 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12448) on Feb. 19, 2026, by Latin American affairs specialist Clare Ribando Seelke.
Here are excerpts:
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Venezuela's Natural Gas: Opportunity Knocks?
The capture and arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on January 3, 2026, and the formation of an interim government working with U.S. officials have renewed possibilities for developing Venezuela's hydrocarbons. Foll more
Yemen - Conflict, Red Sea Security & U.S. Policy Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, Feb. 21 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12581) on Feb. 20, 2026, by Middle Eastern affairs specialist Christopher M. Blanchard.
Here are excerpts:
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Yemen: Conflict, Red Sea Security and U.S. Policy
Yemen is a conflict-afflicted nation along the strategic Bab al Mandab Strait, one of the world's most active shipping lanes. Since 2015, a civil war has pitted the Iran-backed Houthi movement against Yemen's interna more
Agriculture and Related Agencies - FY2026 Appropriations Topic of CRS Report
WASHINGTON, Feb. 19 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48564) on Feb. 17, 2026, entitled "Agriculture and Related Agencies: FY2026 Appropriations" by agricultural policy specialist Jim Monke.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
The Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act (Agriculture appropriations) funds the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) - except for the U.S. Forest Service - an more
Artemis - NASA's Program to Return Humans to the Moon Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, Feb. 19 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11643) on Feb. 18, 2026, by Rachel Lindbergh, science and technology policy analyst.
Here are excerpts:
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Artemis: NASA's Program to Return Humans to the Moon
Between 1969 and 1972, the Apollo program of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) landed 12 American men on the Moon and returned them safely to Earth (see Figure 1). Since then, no human has been more
Supreme Court Appointment Process - Consideration by the Senate Judiciary Committee Topic of CRS Report (Part 1 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Feb. 19 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R44236) on Feb. 17, 2026, entitled "Supreme Court Appointment Process: Consideration by the Senate Judiciary Committee" by American national government analyst Barry J. McMillion.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
The appointment of a Supreme Court Justice is an event of major significance in American politics. Each appointment is of consequence because of the enormous judicial power the Supre more
Supreme Court Appointment Process - Consideration by the Senate Judiciary Committee Topic of CRS Report (Part 2 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Feb. 19 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R44236) on Feb. 17, 2026, entitled "Supreme Court Appointment Process - Consideration by the Senate Judiciary Committee:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 2)
* * *
Hearings
Supreme Court nominations since 1949 have routinely received public confirmation hearings before either the Senate Judiciary Committee or a Judiciary subcommittee./38 In 1955, hearings on the Supreme Court nomination of John M. more
U.S. District Court Nominees Confirmed During the First Year of the Second Trump Presidency Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, Feb. 19 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12659) on Feb. 18, 2026, by American national government analyst Barry J. McMillion.
Here are excerpts:
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U.S. District Court Nominees Confirmed During the First Year of the Second Trump Presidency: Comparative Overview and Statistics
This Insight provides information related to the number of U.S. district court nominees confirmed during the first calendar year of the secon more
U.S. Interest in Seabed Mining in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, Feb. 19 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12608) on Feb. 18, 2026, by natural resources policy specialist Caitlin Keating-Bitonti:
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U.S. Interest in Seabed Mining in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction: Brief Background and Recent Developments
In 1980, Congress passed the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA; 30 U.S.C. Sec.Sec.1401 et seq.) as an interim measure to allow the United States to proceed with more
United Nations Issues - Appointing the UN Secretary-General Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, Feb. 19 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10454) on Feb. 18, 2026, by international relations specialist Luisa Blanchfield.
Here are excerpts:
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United Nations Issues: Appointing the UN Secretary-General
The 10th United Nations Secretary-General (UNSG) is expected to be appointed in late 2026. The UN Security Council and UN General Assembly are considering possible candidates as the second five-year term of curren more
FDA Oversight of General Wellness Products Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, Feb. 18 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12657) on Feb. 17, 2026, by health policy specialist Amanda K. Sarata.
Here are excerpts:
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FDA Oversight of General Wellness Products
General wellness products, and particularly noninvasive, wearable sensing technologies, have proliferated in recent years. These products may be used for a variety of wellness applications, include products like smartwatches and rings, and i more
History, Evolution & Practices of the President's State of the Union Address Topic of CRS Report
WASHINGTON, Feb. 18 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R44770) on Feb. 17, 2026, entitled "History, Evolution and Practices of the President's State of the Union Address: Frequently Asked Questions" by senior research librarian Maria Kreiser and Congress and legislative process specialist Michael Greene:
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Summary
The State of the Union address is a communication from the President to Congress in which the chief executive reports on the curren more
Internal Revenue Service Standard Mileage Rates Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, Feb. 18 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12320) on Feb. 17, 2026, by public finance analysts Anthony A. Cilluffo and Brendan McDermott.
Here are excerpts:
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Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Standard Mileage Rates
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) provides standard mileage rates as optional methods for taxpayers to substantiate their transportation expenses. This Insight reviews how the standard mileage rates are s more
Smithsonian Institution - Selected Legislation, 119th Congress Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, Feb. 18 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12987) on Feb. 17, 2026, by American national government specialist R. Eric Petersen:
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Smithsonian Institution: Selected Legislation, 119th Congress
The Smithsonian Institution is a complex of museum, education, research, and revenue-generating entities primarily located in the Washington, DC, region, with additional facilities and activities across the United States and w more
Violence Against Members of Congress, Their Families & Staff - Policy Responses Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, Feb. 18 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13167) on Feb. 17, 2026.
The white paper is written by American national government specialist R. Eric Petersen, senior research librarian Jennifer E. Manning and research assistant Jennifer E. Manning:
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Violence Against Members of Congress, Their Families and Staff: Policy Responses
The personal security and safety of Members of Congress, their families, and their staff more
African Growth & Opportunity Act Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, Feb. 17 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10149) on Feb. 17, 2026, by Liana Wong, international trade and finance analyst.
Here are excerpts:
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African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA)
Overview
What is AGOA? The African Growth and Opportunity Act (P.L. 106-200, as amended) created a nonreciprocal U.S. trade preference program, also referred to as AGOA, to provide duty-free access to the U.S. market for most expo more
Career & Technical Education Topic of CRS Report (Part 1 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Feb. 17 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R47166) entitled "Career and Technical Education: A Primer" by education policy specialists Cassandria Dortch and Rebecca R. Skinner.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
Career and technical education (CTE), sometimes referred to as vocational education, provides secondary and postsecondary education students with the skills and knowledge required for specific jobs or fields of work. CTE is a ke more
Career & Technical Education Topic of CRS Report (Part 2 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Feb. 17 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R47166) entitled "Career and Technical Education - A Primer:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 2)
* * *
CTE Program Challenges
This section discusses challenges that CTE program providers have experienced with program delivery, increasing student access, and replicating evidence-based practices, as well as resources that have been used to address these challenges./31
Delivery, Access, and Replicati more
Federal Prosecutorial Discretion - Brief Overview Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, Feb. 17 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11326) on Feb. 17, 2026, by legislative attorney Cassandra J. Barnum:
Here are excerpts:
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Federal Prosecutorial Discretion: A Brief Overview
From broad law enforcement priorities embraced by different presidential Administrations to individual choices by Department of Justice (DOJ) attorneys about what charges to bring in specific cases, the executive branch wields more
Proposals to Limit Member of Congress Financial Activities Topic of CRS Report
WASHINGTON, Feb. 17 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48641) on Feb. 2, 2026, entitled "Proposals to Limit Member of Congress Financial Activities: Analysis of Introduced Legislation in the 119th Congress" by Congress specialist Jacob R. Straus.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
In recent years, some Members of Congress have proposed reforms that would prohibit the purchase, sale, or ownership of certain financial instruments by Members of Congr more
Women's History Month Speech Resources Topic of CRS Fact Sheet
WASHINGTON, Feb. 17 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following fact sheet (No. R45125) on Feb. 17, 2026, by Elizabeth C. Larson, senior knowledge management librarian.
Here are excerpts:
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Women's History Month Speech Resources: Fact Sheet
Contents
Introduction ... 1
History ... 1
Legislation ... 1
Related CRS Products ... 2
Selected Speeches and Recognitions ... 2
Selected Presidential Proclamations ... 2
Government Resources ... 3
Contacts
Author Info more
Tipoffs: Public Comments on Proposed Federal Rules
AAPD Raises Concerns Over Proposed Medicaid and Medicare Rule Change
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The American Association of People with Disabilities has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services expressing serious concerns regarding a proposed rule that would impact hospitals' participation in Medicare and Medicaid programs. The AAPD advocates for the civil rights of over 70 million Americans with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of access to necessary medical care.
The proposed changes would prohibit hospitals fro more
AARP Advocates for Lower Prescription Drug Prices in Comments to CMS
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- AARP has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services urging the federal agency to prioritize initiatives aimed at making prescription drugs more affordable for older Americans. With 125 million members aged 50 and older, AARP has long championed the cause of reducing prescription drug costs, particularly as these expenses have become burdensome for many seniors.
The letter, signed by Megan O'Reilly, Vice President, Health and Family
G more
ACAAI Raises Concerns Over Proposed GUARD Model's Impact on Drug Prices and Access
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The Advocacy Council of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology has expressed its concerns in a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services regarding the proposed Guarding U.S. Medicare Against Rising Drug Costs (GUARD) Model. The organization, representing over 6,000 allergists-immunologists and allied health care professionals, emphasizes the need for careful scrutiny of the potential unintended consequences of the model, aimed more
Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy Raises Concerns About GUARD Model Implementation
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services voicing several concerns regarding the proposed Guarding U.S. Medicare Against Rising Drug Costs (GUARD) Model. AMCP, a professional association dedicated to enhancing access to affordable medications, emphasized the need for careful scrutiny of the model's operational feasibility and its potential impact on beneficiaries.
In the letter, signed by Sus more
ACLU of Illinois Critical of Proposed Rule from Federal Government that Threatens Access to Life-Saving Care for Transgender Youth
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The ACLU of Illinois has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), urging the federal agency to reconsider its Proposed Rule CMS-3841-P, which seeks to limit participation in Medicare and Medicaid programs for hospitals that perform sex trait modification procedures on children. The organization contends that if implemented, this rule will severely restrict access to gender-affirming care for transgender minors and undermine more
AHA Raises Concerns Over GLOBE Model's Impact on Drug Pricing and Access
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The American Hospital Association has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services expressing its support for efforts to lower prescription drug prices through the proposed Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE) Model. However, the organization has raised critical concerns about the potential operational challenges and administrative burdens that the model could impose on hospitals and health systems.
In its letter, the AH more
Aimed Alliance Urges CMS to Reconsider GLOBE Model for Drug Pricing
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- Aimed Alliance, a non-profit health policy organization focused on the rights of health care consumers and providers, has issued a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing concerns over the proposed GLOBE Model for drug pricing in Medicare Part B.
While acknowledging CMS's efforts to lower prescription drug costs, the letter, signed by Ashira Vantrees, Director of Legal Strategy & Advocacy, argues that the GLOBE Model may n more
Alliance for Fair Health Pricing Urges Improved Transparency in Health Care Costs
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The Alliance for Fair Health Pricing submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the U.S. Department of the Treasury, and the U.S. Department of Labor, emphasizing the dire need for enhanced price transparency in health care. The organization expressed its support for initiatives aimed at lowering health care costs for patients, employers, and taxpayers amid escalating prices that have le more
Alliance for Patient Access Voices Concerns Over Proposed GLOBE Drug Pricing Model
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The Alliance for Patient Access has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services expressing deep concerns regarding the proposed Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE) Model. This initiative aims to implement a pricing strategy for certain Medicare Part B drugs using international drug pricing data, which AfPA argues could have detrimental effects on patient care and access.
AfPA, a national network founded in 2006 that ad more
Alnylam Pharmaceuticals Raises Concerns Over GUARD Model's Impact on Drug Innovation
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- Alnylam Pharmaceuticals Inc. has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding the proposed Guarding U.S. Medicare Against Rising Drug Costs (GUARD) Model. In their communication, Alnylam, a leader in RNA interference therapeutics, expressed support for comments made by several industry organizations including the Biotechnology Innovation Organization and the Mid-sized Biotech Alliance of America, all voicing apprehension regar more
AMAC Action Urges CMS to Enhance Transparency in Coverage Requirements
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- AMAC Action, the advocacy affiliate of the Association of Mature American Citizens, submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services expressing support for proposed updates to the Transparency in Coverage requirements. With a membership exceeding 2 million nationwide, AMAC Action emphasizes the importance of clear healthcare pricing for seniors living on fixed incomes.
In the letter, Andrew J. Mangione Jr., Senior Vice President, commends more
Ambros Therapeutics Opposes CMS Drug Pricing Proposal
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- Ambros Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biotechnology company, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services expressing opposition to the proposed Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE). The company argues that the model, aimed at implementing international reference pricing for Medicare Part B beneficiaries, poses significant risks and uncertainties in the U.S. reimbursement landscape.
In its comments, Ambros highlights more
America's Future Calls for Ban on Pediatric Sex-Rejecting Procedures
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- America's Future Inc., a nonprofit organization focused on policy advocacy, submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in strong support of a proposed rule prohibiting sex-rejecting procedures for children. The organization argues that the proposed regulation is essential for the health and safety of minors and reflects a growing public concern regarding the risks associated with irreversible medical interventions.
The letter signe more
American Academy of Neurology Voices Support for GLOBE Model to Lower Drug Prices
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The American Academy of Neurology has addressed a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services expressing strong support for the Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE) Model aimed at reducing out-of-pocket (OOP) costs for Medicare beneficiaries. With over 44,000 members, the AAN represents the interests of neurologists and neuroscience professionals and is a leading advocate for brain health.
In their communication, the AAN outlined t more
American Academy of Ophthalmology Raises Concerns Over GLOBE Model Drug Pricing Proposal
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The American Academy of Ophthalmology has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services regarding the proposed Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE) Model. The letter expresses the Academy's appreciation for the opportunity to provide insights on this critical issue.
As the largest association of eye physicians and surgeons in the U.S., the Academy comprises over 20,000 medical doctors dedicated to protecting sight and i more
American Pharmacists Association Calls for Enhanced Transparency in Healthcare Pricing
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The American Pharmacists Association has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services regarding the proposed rule on "Transparency in Coverage." APhA is advocating for increased price transparency to aid patients in making well-informed healthcare decisions.
Representing a diverse range of pharmacy professionals, including pharmacists and pharmacy technicians across various practice settings, APhA emphasizes in a letter signed by M more
American Plasma Users Coalition Urges Exclusion of Plasma-Derived Therapies From GLOBE Model
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The American Plasma Users Coalition has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services calling for the exclusion of plasma-derived therapies from the proposed Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE) Model. The organization represents over 125,000 individuals with rare and chronic disorders who heavily rely on plasma protein therapies.
APLUS warns that incorporating these therapies into the GLOBE Model could lead to critical s more
AnewHealth Urges CMS to Ensure Pharmacy Access Amid GUARD Model Changes
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- AnewHealth, a pharmacy services provider, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) concerning the proposed Guarding U.S. Medicare Against Rising Drug Costs (GUARD) Model. Published in late December 2025, this model aims to scrutinize Medicare drug spending by mandating manufacturer rebates when U.S. prices for specific drugs surpass those in economically comparable countries.
AnewHealth highlighted its support for CMS's i more
APHA Urges Withdrawal of CMS Proposal to Limit Transgender Care for Youth
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The American Public Health Association, along with 122 public health and health policy leaders, has submitted a public comment letter opposing the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' proposed rule to prohibit hospitals from receiving Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements if they offer puberty blockers, hormone therapy, or surgeries to transgender youth under age 18. This proposed rule, they argue, contravenes constitutional protections and the intent of Medicare and M more
Ardelyx Raises Concerns Over GUARD Model's Potential Impact on Biopharmaceutical Innovation
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- Ardelyx Inc., a biopharmaceutical firm headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing strong opposition to the proposed "Guarding U.S. Medicare Against Rising Drug Costs (GUARD) Model." The company warns that importing foreign reference pricing into the United States could have detrimental consequences for small and midsize biopharmaceutical companies, as well as patients rec more
ASHA Voices Strong Opposition to Proposed Restrictions on Health Care for Children
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services expressing strong opposition to a proposed rule that would prohibit sex-rejecting procedures for children. This regulation would significantly affect the ability of licensed health care professionals, including speech-language pathologists, to deliver essential services within their scopes of practice.
ASHA, representing 241,000 members an more
Association of Nurses in AIDS Care Opposes Proposed Medicaid Rule
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The Association of Nurses in AIDS Care has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, expressing strong opposition to a proposed rule that would prohibit coverage of specific gender-affirming services for individuals experiencing gender dysphoria under the Medicaid program and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The organization, which has been dedicated to addressing the needs of healthcare professionals involved in HIV/AID more
Autolus Therapeutics Advocates for Exemption of Cell and Gene Therapies in Drug Pricing Model
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- Autolus Therapeutics plc has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services concerning the proposed Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing Model. The company aims to highlight the necessity of an exemption for cell and gene therapy products within this initiative.
Autolus is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing advanced T cell therapies to combat cancer and autoimmune diseases. Its flagship product, AUCATZYL, which rece more
BioNJ Raises Concerns Over GLOBE And GUARD Models
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- BioNJ, a trade association representing over 400 member entities in the life sciences sector, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The letter addresses grave concerns regarding the Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE) and Guarding U.S. Medicare Against Rising Drug Costs (GUARD) Models proposed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation.
BioNJ emphasizes that these proposed models could critically more
Blue Cross Blue Shield Association Calls for Improved Price Transparency in Healthcare
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services expressing strong support for the agency's efforts toward enhancing price transparency in healthcare. This letter addresses the proposed rule regarding "Transparency in Coverage," published in the Federal Register in December.
BCBSA, representing a national federation of independent and community-based Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies, emphasize more
Cancer Advocacy Groups Raise Concerns About Proposed Drug Pricing Model
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The Cancer Leadership Council has issued a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services expressing concerns regarding the proposed Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE) Model. The coalition, comprising various advocacy organizations dedicated to cancer care, has highlighted the potential adverse effects on the quality of care for cancer patients, particularly those relying on Medicare.
The letter emphasizes that more than half of all more
CGE Opposes Proposed HHS Rule on Gender-Affirming Care for Minors
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The Council for Global Equality has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services expressing strong opposition to a recently proposed rule which seeks to prohibit gender-affirming healthcare for minors. This proposed regulation, titled "Hospital Condition of Participation: Prohibiting Sex-Rejecting Procedures for Children," has sparked significant concern among advocates for LGBTQI+ rights.
CGE, a prominent coalition of 45 U.S.-base more
Child Welfare League Opposes Proposed Rules Affecting Transgender Youth Healthcare
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The Child Welfare League of America, a coalition of child welfare organizations, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services urging the withdrawal of two proposed rules that could adversely affect transgender youth in foster care. The proposed rules, concerning Medicaid funding for sex-rejecting procedures and hospital participation conditions, have sparked widespread concern within the child welfare community.
Since 1920, CWLA ha more
CMS Proposed Rule on Gender-Affirming Care Draws Legal Opposition
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The Center for Individual Rights, a nonprofit public interest law firm, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services voicing strong opposition to the agency's proposed rule regarding gender-affirming care for minors. The proposed rule seeks to establish conditions under which hospitals participating in the Medicare program would be prohibited from offering "sex-rejecting procedures" for children under the age of 18.
CIR, in a lette more
Coalition Against Socialized Medicine Criticizes GLOBE Model in Letter to CMS
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The Coalition Against Socialized Medicine has submitted a public comment letter to the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services expressing strong opposition to the proposed Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE) model. The letter was issued in response to a notice published in the Federal Register on December 23, 2025, regarding docket #CMS-2025-1889.
CASM, which is a coalition of various free-market and limited-government advocacy organizations, asserts that more
Comment Letter Challenges New Medicare Drug Pricing Rules
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- AbbVie Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services expressing opposition to the proposed rules aimed at reforming Medicare drug pricing. The company highlighted significant concerns regarding the economic and legal implications of the proposed Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE) and Guarding U.S. Medicare Against Rising Drug Costs (GUARD) models.
The proposed rules, issued on Dece more
Comment Letter Opposes Proposed Rule on Gender Dysphoria Treatments for Minors
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- Governing for Impact, a regulatory policy organization dedicated to enhancing federal government efficiency, has expressed strong opposition to a proposed rule from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding treatments for minors with gender dysphoria. The public comment letter submitted to CMS outlines concerns that the proposed regulation, which seeks to prohibit certain medical services under the Medicare and Medicaid programs, would exceed the agenc more
Competitive Enterprise Institute Opposes GUARD Model for Medicare Drug Pricing
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The Competitive Enterprise Institute has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding the proposed Guarding U.S. Medicare Against Rising Drug Costs (GUARD) Model. In its communication, CEI expressed concerns about the potential impact of foreign price controls and evaluation systems on U.S. drug prices and availability for seniors.
According to CEI, applying methodologies used by other nations to set U.S. drug prices could ha more
County of Los Angeles Urges CMS to Revoke Proposed Rule on Gender-Affirming Care
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The County of Los Angeles has sent a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services opposing proposed revisions to Medicare and Medicaid Conditions of Participation that would restrict access to gender-affirming care for minors. With a population exceeding 10 million, this largest county in the United States relies heavily on Medicare and Medicaid funding to ensure healthcare accessibility for its residents.
In the detailed letter, the county's he more
D.C. Child Care Provider Rising Starz Warns Proposed Federal Rule Change Could Destabilize Industry
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- Rising Starz, a child care provider based in D.C., has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) expressing strong opposition to the proposed rulemaking regarding changes to the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF). The proposed rule (RIN 0970-AD20) seeks to shift reimbursement models from enrollment-based to attendance-based payments, a move that Rising Starz argues could destabilize the child care industry.
In the lett more
Health Access California Urges Withdrawal of Proposed CMS Rule on Gender-Affirming Care
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- Health Access California and the California LGBTQ Health and Human Services Network are calling on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to withdraw their public comment letter concerning a proposed amendment that seeks to prohibit hospitals from offering certain gender-affirming care for minors. The organizations argue that this proposed rule would restrict critical access to healthcare services, potentially endangering the well-being of affected youths and their f more
Intellia Therapeutics Raises Concerns Over GLOBE Model Drug Pricing Rules
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- Intellia Therapeutics, a clinical-stage gene editing company, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services addressing their concerns regarding the proposed Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing Model (CMS-5545-P). This model's proposed exemption of cell and gene therapy products has particularly drawn concern from the organization, which is dedicated to developing innovative CRISPR-based therapies.
In the letter, Intellia emp more
Maryland Commission Voices Opposition to Proposed Rule on Pediatric Care
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The Maryland Commission on LGBTQIA+ Affairs has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services opposing the proposed rule CMS-3481-P. This regulation aims to prohibit certain medical procedures for children based on ideological grounds, and the Commission argues that it is both inappropriate and dangerous.
The Commission, which is a state advisory body tasked with addressing challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ communities in Maryland, highlight more
Medicare Program Comments Address Critical Need for Domestic Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- Apiject Systems Corp., a medical technology company, submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services emphasizing the urgent requirement to bolster domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing, particularly in the context of the ongoing reliance on foreign production for generic injectable drugs.
The letter highlights concerns regarding the structural dependency of the U.S. healthcare system on foreign production, with approximately 70-80 percent more
Oregon Health Authority Urges Withdrawal of Proposed Rule on Gender Affirming Care
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The Oregon Health Authority has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services urging the federal agency to withdraw its proposed rule (CMS-3481-P) that seeks to prohibit sex-rejecting procedures for children. The OHA, tasked with enforcing Conditions of Participation (CoP) in healthcare settings, expressed concerns that the implementation of this proposed rule would impose significant harm on communities and disrupt access to critical more
Philanthropy Giant Arnold Ventures Backs New Medicare Drug Pricing Framework
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- Arnold Ventures, a philanthropy dedicated to evidence-based policy solutions, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services regarding the proposed Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing Model (GLOBE Model). This proposed rule aims to address the high costs of prescription drugs within Medicare by establishing a framework designed to lower prices for high-cost brand-name drugs purchased through Medicare Part B.
In the letter, more
Proposed Transparency in Coverage Rules Draw Attention From Health Sector
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The National Association of Insurance Commissioners has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services regarding proposed rules aimed at enhancing transparency in health insurance coverage. The proposed rule, published by the agency along with the Departments of Labor and Treasury, outlines measures to improve the disclosure of health insurance pricing and cost-sharing information.
The proposed changes come as a response to ongoing con more
Santa Cruz Community Health Centers Opposes Proposed Rule on Gender-Affirming Care for Minors
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- Santa Cruz Community Health Centers has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services expressing strong opposition to a proposed rule that aims to prohibit hospitals participating in Medicare and Medicaid from providing certain gender-affirming medical care to individuals under the age of 18. The organization is urging the agency to withdraw this rule, citing potential harm to vulnerable youth and broader implications for the healthcar more
Santa Monica City Opposes Proposed Rules on Gender-Affirming Healthcare
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The City of Santa Monica has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), voicing strong opposition to proposed rules that would restrict gender-affirming healthcare for transgender, gender diverse, and intersex (TGI) youth. The city argues that these restrictions are harmful, unlawful, and directly conflict with local policies designed to protect TGI youth and their access to necessary healthcare services.
Santa Monica, a city more
Solana Beach Council Adopts Resolution Against Offshore Drilling
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The City Council of Solana Beach, California, has submitted a resolution as a public comment to the U.S. Department of the Interior expressing opposition to offshore oil and gas drilling along the California coastline. This resolution reflects the city's dedication to preserving its ocean waters and coastal habitats, which support a diverse range of wildlife including marine mammals, birds, and fish.
In the resolution, the Solana Beach City Council unanimously emphasizes more
Susan G. Komen Organization Raises Concerns Over GLOBE Model's Impact on Breast Cancer Patients
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The Susan G. Komen organization has issued a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) voicing concerns about the potential unintended consequences of the Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE) Model on breast cancer patients. While Komen recognizes the agency's efforts to alleviate the financial burden of cancer care, they urge that the model should not be finalized.
As the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to breast more
Trans Maryland Opposes Proposed Rule on Gender-Affirming Care
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- Trans Maryland, a community organization dedicated to the health and rights of transgender individuals, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, urging the agency to withdraw its proposed rule titled "Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Hospital Condition of Participation: Prohibiting Sex-Rejecting Procedures for Children." The organization argues that the proposed rule represents an overreach of federal authority and threatens bot more
U.S. Chamber of Commerce Calls for Withdrawal of Proposed Drug Pricing Rules
WASHINGTON, March 1 -- The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services urging the agency to withdraw its proposed rules aimed at regulating drug pricing. These proposals, known as the Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE) and Guarding U.S. Medicare Against Rising Drug Costs (GUARD), seek to establish price controls on a wide range of Medicare Part B and Part D prescription drugs.
The Chamber opposes the proposals, more
Federal Register Notices Tipoffs from TNS
Bureau of Safety & Environmental Enforcement Issues Information Collection Notice on Application for Permit to Modify & Supporting Documentation
WASHINGTON, Dec. 29 (TNSinfo) -- The U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement issued the following information collection:
Title of Collection: "Application for Permit to Modify (APM) and Supporting Documentation." (See 30 CFR 250.465.)
OMB Control Number: 1014-0026.
Form Number: BSEE-0124.
Type of Review: Extension of a currently approved collection.
Respondents/Affected Public: Potential respondents include Federal OCS oil, gas, and sulfur lessees and more
USDA Issues Information Collection Notice on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program: Reporting of Lottery & Gambling, & Resource Verification
WASHINGTON, Dec. 29 (TNSinfo) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture issued the following information collection:
Title: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program: Reporting of Lottery and Gambling, and Resource Verification.
OMB Control Number: 0584-0621.
Summary of Collection: In accordance with section 4009 of the Agricultural Act of 2014, households in which members receive substantial lottery and gambling winnings are ineligible for SNAP until they meet allowable financial resources and i more
