Trade Associations
Here's a look at documents from national and international trade associations
Featured Stories
NCBA Members Bring Cattle Industry Priorities to Washington During Legislative Conference
CENTENNIAL, Colorado, April 25 -- The National Cattlemen's Beef Association posted the following news release:
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NCBA Members Bring Cattle Industry Priorities to Washington During Legislative Conference
The National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA), and its nationwide network of state affiliates, concluded its 2026 Legislative Conference this week, bringing together cattle producers from across the country to advocate for policy solutions that strengthen America's cattle industry and rural communities. Throughout the conference, producers met with federal officials and engaged directly
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CENTENNIAL, Colorado, April 25 -- The National Cattlemen's Beef Association posted the following news release:
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NCBA Members Bring Cattle Industry Priorities to Washington During Legislative Conference
The National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA), and its nationwide network of state affiliates, concluded its 2026 Legislative Conference this week, bringing together cattle producers from across the country to advocate for policy solutions that strengthen America's cattle industry and rural communities. Throughout the conference, producers met with federal officials and engaged directlywith policymakers on Capitol Hill to ensure the voice of cattle producers is heard in Washington.
"NCBA's Legislative Conference is where grassroots policy meets action," said NCBA President Gene Copenhaver, a Virginia cattle producer. "Our members traveled to Washington to share real-world perspectives from their operations and reinforce why strong, commonsense policies are essential to keeping family farms and ranches viable for the next generation. From protecting animal health to advancing regulatory reform, NCBA members are leading the charge on behalf of the entire cattle industry."
During their time in Washington, NCBA members emphasized several top policy priorities, including:
* Delisting the gray wolf and passing the Pet and Livestock Protection Act
* Advancing passage of a new Farm Bill
* Supporting funding for research, management, and control of the Longhorned tick and the diseases it carries
In addition to Capitol Hill meetings, NCBA members participated in discussions with key federal agencies. Producers met with officials from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), including the Food Safety and Inspection Service, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, and Agricultural Marketing Service, as well as representatives from the Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine and the Environmental Protection Agency. U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach addressed attendees, discussing the impact of the Working Families Tax Cuts and economic support for rural America. Producers also received a demonstration of new tools from the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service designed to enhance transparency and market opportunities within the cattle industry.
The Legislative Conference is a cornerstone of NCBA's grassroots advocacy efforts, connecting cattle producers through NCBA and its state affiliates with policy makers in Washington, D.C. This producer-led engagement reinforces the organization's role as the definitive voice of the U.S. cattle industry and ensures real-world perspectives from cattle operations are part of the policy process.
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Original text here: https://www.ncba.org/news-media/news/details/47935/ncba-members-bring-cattle-industry-priorities-to-washington-during-legislative-conference
[Category: Agriculture]
U.S. Survey Finds Increase in Use of Alternative Medicines Like Melatonin Among Children
ITASCA, Illinois, April 24 [Category: Medical] -- The American Academy of Pediatrics issued the following news release:
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U.S. Survey Finds Increase in Use of Alternative Medicines Like Melatonin Among Children
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A study based on three cycles of a national survey has found that the use of alternative medicines has increased among children. The study, titled, "Changes in Dietary Supplement Use Among Children and Adolescents in the United States, 2015-2016 to 2021-2023," published online on April 24 in the AAP's open access journal Pediatrics Open Science, used data on children and adolescents
... Show Full Article
ITASCA, Illinois, April 24 [Category: Medical] -- The American Academy of Pediatrics issued the following news release:
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U.S. Survey Finds Increase in Use of Alternative Medicines Like Melatonin Among Children
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A study based on three cycles of a national survey has found that the use of alternative medicines has increased among children. The study, titled, "Changes in Dietary Supplement Use Among Children and Adolescents in the United States, 2015-2016 to 2021-2023," published online on April 24 in the AAP's open access journal Pediatrics Open Science, used data on children and adolescentsaged 0 to 19 from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey for the most recent three cycles: 2015-2016, 2017-2020, and 2021-2023.
Data from the two oldest cycles were pooled and compared to the 2021-2023 cycle and found that the increase was primarily driven by melatonin, probiotics, and fiber supplements with both probiotic use and fiber supplement use more than doubling. Overall and across all cycles, over 35% of children and adolescents surveyed used dietary supplements.
Changes were noted by demographic data - in particular, once children reached adolescence - where iron, zinc, probiotics, and weight-loss supplements were more often used by girls and melatonin and bodybuilding supplements being used more often by boys. Despite data showing that one in five children took multivitamins or minerals across cycles, authors noted increases in single vitamins such as Vitamin D, zinc, and iron.
Authors state that many of these supplements have been implicated in adverse drug events or poisonings in younger children and that there is limited evidence to support their safety and effectiveness.
Authors also state that the increase in melatonin use is of concern as emergency department visits for melatonin ingestions among the pediatric population have been on the rise. Evidence also shows that the melatonin content in these supplements often exceeds the amount labeled, the study states.
The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 67,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults.
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Original text here: https://www.aap.org/en/news-room/news-releases/pediatrics2/2026/u.s.-survey-finds-increase-in-use-of-alternative-medicines-like-melatonin-among-children
Nearly Half of Middle-Class Americans Lack Confidence They Will Have Enough Retirement Savings, Gen X and Millennials are the Least Confident, ACLI Finds
WASHINGTON, April 24 (TNSrep)-- The American Council of Life Insurers issued the following news release on April 23, 2026:
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Nearly Half of Middle-Class Americans Lack Confidence They Will Have Enough Retirement Savings, Gen X and Millennials are the Least Confident, ACLI Finds
ACLI Financial Resilience Index rises in Q4 2025, but retirement readiness remains a concern
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The American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) today released the latest Financial Resilience Index and accompanying survey, which measures middle-class households' ability to manage financial challenges and plan for a stable
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 24 (TNSrep)-- The American Council of Life Insurers issued the following news release on April 23, 2026:
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Nearly Half of Middle-Class Americans Lack Confidence They Will Have Enough Retirement Savings, Gen X and Millennials are the Least Confident, ACLI Finds
ACLI Financial Resilience Index rises in Q4 2025, but retirement readiness remains a concern
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The American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) today released the latest Financial Resilience Index and accompanying survey, which measures middle-class households' ability to manage financial challenges and plan for a stablefuture.
The survey, conducted by YouGov, shows that middle-class retirement preparedness may be at a crossroads, especially among Americans nearing retirement age. Gen X Americans, now aged 45-60, are particularly anxious about retirement, with nearly six in ten (59%) reporting they are "not very" or "not at all" confident about their retirement savings. Millennials are close behind, with 51% expressing similar concerns. Overall, 46% of Americans lack confidence in their retirement savings.
The April Financial Resilience Index, which looks at data from the fourth quarter of 2025, found that middle-class financial resilience improved compared to the third quarter of 2025 and was above historical norms. However, as economic pressures persisted, financial resilience in Q4 2025 was still below that of Q4 2024.
"While the lack of retirement confidence among middle class Americans is concerning, the fact that Americans approaching their retirement years are the least confident paints an even more sobering picture," said ACLI President & CEO David Chavern. "Even as economic conditions improved late last year, families are struggling to bridge the gap between where they are and where they need to be for a secure retirement. "
Survey Findings: The Retirement Confidence Gap
The survey also found that:
* 41% of middle-class households haven't looked for information or guidance about planning for retirement in the past year. Of those who haven't looked, 56% lack confidence that they will have enough savings to live comfortably throughout retirement.
* Middle-class households with life insurance are significantly more likely to feel confident about retirement (56%) compared to those without (44%). This demonstrates the protective role comprehensive financial planning plays in retirement readiness.
* When seeking retirement guidance, middle-class households are turning primarily to digital sources rather than professional advice. 30% used online research, while only 20% consulted a financial advisor or insurance agent.
Financial Resilience Improves in Q4 2025
Elevated inflation for household and recreation expenses continues to pose an affordability challenge for the middle class. However, the Q4 2025 Headline Index improved by 7.5 points from the previous quarter, driven by above-average resource gains and moderating cost pressures. Wage growth has slowed since peaking in early 2023, but it held steady in 2025 and is still better than average, helping middle-class households manage affordability challenges.
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About the Financial Resilience Index
ACLI's Financial Resilience Index, which is released quarterly, measures the ability of the middle-class to manage life's challenges and plan for a stable future. The index tracks 26 different variables that represent typical cost pressures for middle-class households (like housing, gas and childcare) and the financial resources that are available to meet them (like income, access to credit and retirement assets). By tracking the direction and magnitude of cost pressures and resources, the index reflects how middle-class financial resilience changes over time, and what is driving improvement or decline.
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About the Financial Resilience Survey
ACLI's Financial Resilience Survey is a nationally representative survey conducted by YouGov on behalf of ACLI, as a complement to the Financial Resilience Index. The survey explores how middle-class respondents understand their own financial resilience by asking questions about economic mobility, financial stressors, financial stability, and safety nets. The quarterly survey consists of two questions about financial resilience, one recurring question that will be asked at the same time each year and one that will vary within the larger theme of middle-class financial health, stress, and resilience. Respondents of all household income levels respond to the survey, with reporting focused on middle-class respondents - those earning $50,000-$150,000 in annual household income.
ACLI's latest Financial Resilience Survey was conducted online within the United States by YouGov on behalf of ACLI from March 11 - 16, 2026 among 3,707 adults ages 18 and older. The survey sample includes 1,476 respondents from middle-class households as well as 1,459 respondents from lower-income households and 329 respondents from upper-income households. The report and related materials only highlight comparisons between subgroups that are statistically significant. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables and subgroup sample sizes, please contact ACLI.
For more information about both the index and the survey please visit: Financial Resilience Index (https://www.acli.com/news-and-analysis/financial-resilience-index).
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About ACLI
The American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) is the leading trade association driving public policy and advocacy on behalf of the life insurance industry. 90 million American families rely on the life insurance industry for financial protection and retirement security. ACLI's member companies are dedicated to protecting consumers' financial wellbeing through life insurance, annuities, retirement plans, long-term care insurance, disability income insurance, reinsurance, and dental, vision and other supplemental benefits. ACLI's 275 member companies represent 94 percent of industry assets in the United States.
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Original text here: https://www.acli.com/posting/nr26-028
[Category: Insurance]
Navigating Headwinds and Positioning Recreational Boating for Growth
CHICAGO, Illinois, April 24 [Category: Business] -- The National Marine Manufacturers Association posted the following news release:
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Navigating Headwinds and Positioning Recreational Boating for Growth
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Like captains navigating an open sea, we in the marine industry don't get to choose the conditions that surround us-but we do get to choose how we respond.
For several years, marine manufacturers have encountered lingering inflationary pressures, elevated borrowing costs and, more recently, tariff uncertainties that have kept many households cautious. Those persistent dynamics have
... Show Full Article
CHICAGO, Illinois, April 24 [Category: Business] -- The National Marine Manufacturers Association posted the following news release:
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Navigating Headwinds and Positioning Recreational Boating for Growth
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Like captains navigating an open sea, we in the marine industry don't get to choose the conditions that surround us-but we do get to choose how we respond.
For several years, marine manufacturers have encountered lingering inflationary pressures, elevated borrowing costs and, more recently, tariff uncertainties that have kept many households cautious. Those persistent dynamics havesoftened boat sales and extended buying cycles.
Two forces are greatly influencing near-term consumption: confidence and affordability.
Consumer confidence remains one of the strongest indicators for new boat demand. When people feel stable and secure in their financial outlook, they are more willing to invest in discretionary purchases. When uncertainty rises, buyers hesitate.
Affordability then moves to the forefront. Credit remains plentiful, but borrowing costs have stayed elevated, impacting monthly payments, particularly for first-time and entry-level boat buyers.
On the business side, global conditions, from geopolitical unrest to evolving trade policy, continue to influence how companies price, hire and invest. Consequently, many leading boat builders and dealers are taking a measured approach to capital investments until conditions stabilize.
Within that context, NMMA estimates new powerboat unit sales were down approximately 10 percent in 2025 and short of 220,000 units-levels not seen since just after the Great Recession. Meanwhile, the pre-owned market, an important entry point for budget conscious households and first-time participants, struggled but continued to anchor overall demand, accounting for roughly 75 to 80 percent of total boat sales.
Through it all, Manufacturers and dealers have remained resilient and responded with discipline. They tightened production where needed, managed inventory and staffing carefully, and stayed focused on long-term competitiveness and product innovation.
Despite a challenging year, the market witnessed some bright spots in new boat sales, such as aluminum fishing boats, personal watercraft, a resilient luxury segment and a buoyant sharing economy across rentals and clubs.
Unit sales tell one story but there is another we cannot lose sight of: overall participation in the boating lifestyle is healthy.
Existing boaters and anglers continue to prioritize time on the water. That activity is a major reason the boating and fishing sector remains the number one contributor to America's $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy.
It is also encouraging that NMMA's quarterly survey of senior executives shows manufacturers are cautiously optimistic. And we all know that an energized U.S. consumer will energize the marine industry, and increased market stability will drive greater business activity and optimism.
In uncertain times, it serves us well to remember our industry's unique strength. Boating delivers something Americans value more than ever: meaningful experiences and connection-to family, friends and an unrivaled health and wellness lifestyle in nature. Boating is not just a purchase; it is transformative. And the demand for time on the water remains powerful.
Read the full article in Soundings Trade Only
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Original text here: https://www.nmma.org/press/article/25475
NFDA Members Showed Up for the Funeral Service Profession and Stood Up for Those They Serve
BROOKFIELD, Wisconsin, April 24 -- The National Funeral Directors Association issued the following news release on April 23, 2026:
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NFDA Members Showed Up for the Funeral Service Profession and Stood Up for Those They Serve.
Funeral professionals advocate for families, honor the deceased and advance funeral service at NFDA's 2026 Advocacy Summit.
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The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) once again demonstrated why it is the leading voice of funeral service in the United States and around the world, bringing an unmatched show of strength, credibility and purpose to Washington,
... Show Full Article
BROOKFIELD, Wisconsin, April 24 -- The National Funeral Directors Association issued the following news release on April 23, 2026:
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NFDA Members Showed Up for the Funeral Service Profession and Stood Up for Those They Serve.
Funeral professionals advocate for families, honor the deceased and advance funeral service at NFDA's 2026 Advocacy Summit.
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The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) once again demonstrated why it is the leading voice of funeral service in the United States and around the world, bringing an unmatched show of strength, credibility and purpose to Washington,D.C., for the 2026 Advocacy Summit.
"Funeral service professionals have a powerful story to tell, and our members brought that story directly to Capitol Hill in a meaningful way," said NFDA President Dan Ford, CFSP, CCSP. "They're not speaking in generalities. They're sharing real experiences from the families and communities they serve every day and that really resonated with lawmakers. What truly sets NFDA apart is that our advocacy doesn't stop when the Summit ends. Because we have a full-time lobbyist in Washington, D.C., we are advancing the profession's priorities every day. This event amplifies that work in a highly visible and impactful way."
Elevating the Voice of Funeral Service
During their meetings with members of Congress and their staff, NFDA members advocated for key legislative priorities affecting funeral homes, grieving families and communities nationwide, including:
* Consensual Donation and Research Integrity Act (S.1270 / H.R.2589) - NFDA members confronted the reality of unethical body brokers by demanding dignity, transparency and accountability because the deceased deserve respect, not exploitation.
* Funeral Coverage Act (H.R. 2436) - Association members stood up for grieving families by supporting legislation that expands the use of tax free HSA funds to help pay for funeral and burial expenses.
* Death Tax Repeal Act (S.587 / H.R.1301) - NFDA fought for tax reform that will protect family owned funeral businesses so they can remain pillars of their communities and continue caring for families with compassion and stability.
* Multiple bills to improve funeral and burial benefits for veterans - NFDA members honored those who served by advocating for veterans' funerals and burial benefits that reflect our nation's gratitude.
* No IRIS Act (S.623 / H.R.1415) - NFDA pushed for sound science to be used by the EPA as the assess formaldehyde.
More than 160 NFDA members representing 36 states and Washington, D.C., conducted 205 meetings with federal lawmakers, delivering a clear message: funeral service is essential, grieving families must be protected and the funeral profession will be heard. Meetings took place across both chambers of Congress, including 69 Senate meetings and 136 House meetings, ensuring broad engagement with lawmakers and their staff on issues impacting funeral service and the families they serve. This level of access and engagement reflects NFDA's leadership in advocacy. NFDA is the only national funeral service association with a full-time lobbyist in Washington, D.C., ensuring the profession maintains a consistent, credible voice where policy decisions are made.
With comprehensive issue briefings, talking points and on-the-ground support from NFDA staff, participants were well-prepared to engage in substantive, solutions-focused conversations with policymakers.
"One of the most effective ways to educate policymakers is by connecting them directly with the professionals doing the work," said Lesley Witter, NFDA senior vice president of advocacy and federal lobbyist. "Our members bring credibility, compassion and firsthand insight to every conversation. NFDA's strength is our consistent presence in Washington. We are actively engaged year-round in the legislative and regulatory process, building relationships and ensuring funeral service is understood and making sure the voice of funeral service is heard where decisions are made. That consistency drives real results."
More Than Meetings, a Lasting Impact
Beyond the numbers, the Advocacy Summit created meaningful opportunities for funeral service professionals to build relationships with elected officials and serve as trusted resources on issues affecting their communities. For many attendees, the experience was both impactful and inspiring.
"It's a little overwhelming at first, but [NFDA] give[s] you all the tools you need to succeed," said Kelly Walker of Anderson's Tribute Center in Hood River, Oregon. "It makes you feel like your voice is important. It's been an empowering experience that I would recommend to anybody."
"This is how our nation works - how we make change, how we advocate for ourselves," said Logan Bryant of Smith Funeral & Cremation Service in Maryville, Tennessee. "It's an incredible chance to participate in our nation's democracy and represent the families we serve."
A Year-Round Commitment to Advocacy
While the Advocacy Summit is a cornerstone event, NFDA's work in Washington, D.C., continues every day. With a dedicated full-time lobbyist, NFDA ensures that funeral service remains visible, respected and well-represented at the federal level.
At a time when legislative and regulatory decisions increasingly impact small businesses and the families they serve, that sustained presence is critical.
Looking Ahead
NFDA will continue to build on the momentum generated at this year's Summit, strengthening relationships with policymakers and advancing priorities that support funeral service professionals and the grieving families they serve nationwide.
The 2027 NFDA Advocacy Summit will take place April 28 through 30, 2027, at The Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C., and is open to any member who wants to make a difference in their profession and for the families they serve.
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NFDA is the world's leading and largest funeral service association, serving 20,000 individual members who represent nearly 11,000 funeral homes in the United States and 49 countries around the world. NFDA is the trusted leader, beacon for ethics and the strongest advocate for the profession. NFDA is the association of choice because it offers funeral professionals comprehensive educational resources, tools to manage successful businesses, guidance to become pillars in their communities and the expertise to foster future generations of funeral professionals. NFDA is headquartered in Brookfield, Wis., and has an office in Washington, D.C. For more information, visit NFDA.org.
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Original text here: https://nfda.org/news/media-center/nfda-news-releases/id/10071/nfda-members-showed-up-for-the-funeral-service-profession-and-stood-up-for-those-they-serve
[Category: Human Resources/Personnel]
IFPA Litigation Co Plaintiffs on OCC Interim Final Actions Affirming Federal Preemption
WASHINGTON, April 24 [Category: Financial Services] -- The American Bankers Association posted the following news release:
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IFPA Litigation Co Plaintiffs on OCC Interim Final Actions Affirming Federal Preemption
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WASHINGTON -
The Illinois Bankers Association, Illinois Credit Union League, American Bankers Association and America's Credit Unions issued the following joint statement in response to the OCC's issuance of two interim final actions affirming that federal law preempts the Illinois Interchange Fee Prohibition Act (IFPA) and confirming the agency's legal authorities:
"We welcome
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 24 [Category: Financial Services] -- The American Bankers Association posted the following news release:
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IFPA Litigation Co Plaintiffs on OCC Interim Final Actions Affirming Federal Preemption
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WASHINGTON -
The Illinois Bankers Association, Illinois Credit Union League, American Bankers Association and America's Credit Unions issued the following joint statement in response to the OCC's issuance of two interim final actions affirming that federal law preempts the Illinois Interchange Fee Prohibition Act (IFPA) and confirming the agency's legal authorities:
"We welcomethe Office of the Comptroller of the Currency's interim final actions confirming both preemption of the Illinois Interchange Fee Prohibition Act by federal law and national banks' federal powers. The OCC's actions make it clear that states cannot interfere with national bank powers that President Lincoln and Congress placed firmly under federal authority more than 160 years ago and remain essential to the effective functioning of our banking system.
"These actions are consistent with the OCC's prior amicus filings in this case and with the agency's public commitment - both in this administration and the previous one - to defend federal preemption. They reinforce the firm legal foundation of our ongoing appeal and underscore that Illinois' misguided law is unlawful and should not be implemented. The OCC's actions should also send a strong signal to other states to follow the law and not repeat Illinois' mistake.
"We appreciate the OCC's clear affirmation that federal law must govern national banking activities. We encourage the NCUA to follow the OCC's lead and similarly defend federal credit union laws to ensure that IFPA is halted for all financial institutions and that a consistent national framework is preserved going forward."
About the American Bankers Association
The American Bankers Association is the voice of the nation's $25.3 trillion banking industry, which is composed of small, regional and large banks that together employ over 2 million people, safeguard $20.1 trillion in deposits and extend $13.5 trillion in loans.
About the Illinois Bankers Association
The Illinois Bankers Association, the voice of Illinois' banking industry, is a full-service trade association dedicated to creating a positive business climate that benefits the entire banking industry and the communities they serve. Founded in 1891, the IBA brings together state and national banks and savings banks employing over 105,000 people in nearly 4,500 offices.
About America's Credit Unions
America's Credit Unions is the unified voice for not-for-profit credit unions, representing more than 95% of the industry's assets and their more than 144 million members nationwide. America's Credit Unions provides strong advocacy, resources and services to advance, empower, and protect credit unions and the people and communities they serve. For more information about America's Credit Unions, visit AmericasCreditUnions.org.
About the Illinois Credit Union League
The Illinois Credit Union League is the primary trade association for more than 200 state and federal credit unions in Illinois. It focuses on providing legislative and regulatory advocacy, compliance assistance and information, and a wide range of educational and training services to those credit unions, who serve about 4.1 million members. More information can be found at www.icul.com.
About the American Bankers Association
The American Bankers Association is the voice of the nation's $25.3 trillion banking industry, which is composed of small, regional and large banks that together employ over 2 million people, safeguard $20.1 trillion in deposits and extend $13.5 trillion in loans.
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Original text here: https://www.aba.com/about-us/press-room/press-releases/ifpa-litigation-co-plaintiffs-on-occ-interim-final-actions-affirming-federal-preemption
AHCA/NCAL Applauds the Introduction of the Medicare Advantage Improvement Act of 2026
WASHINGTON, April 24 (TNSrpt) -- The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living posted the following news release:
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AHCA/NCAL Applauds the Introduction of the Medicare Advantage Improvement Act of 2026
The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), the nation's largest organization representing long term and post-acute care providers, praised lawmakers for the introduction of the Medicare Advantage Improvement Act of 2026 (H.R. 8375). The bill was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by a bipartisan group
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 24 (TNSrpt) -- The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living posted the following news release:
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AHCA/NCAL Applauds the Introduction of the Medicare Advantage Improvement Act of 2026
The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), the nation's largest organization representing long term and post-acute care providers, praised lawmakers for the introduction of the Medicare Advantage Improvement Act of 2026 (H.R. 8375). The bill was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by a bipartisan groupof members, many of whom are physicians.
"The Medicare Advantage Improvement Act of 2026 represents a significant step towards ensuring Medicare Advantage delivers on its promise to America's seniors," said Clif Porter, President and CEO of AHCA/NCAL. "We commend these lawmakers for developing a better way to enable seniors to have timely access to care and hold plans accountable. We urge continued bipartisan support and swift passage through Congress."
The bipartisan Medicare Advantage Improvement Act of 2026 is led by Representatives John Joyce (PA-13), Kim Schrier (WA-08), Gregory Murphy (NC-03), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Mariannette Miller Meeks (IA-01), Ami Bera (CA-06), and Beth Van Duyne (TX-24). Upon introduction, the bill was referred to the House Committees on Ways and Means and Energy and Commerce. It is the most sweeping attempt to enhance Medicare Advantage (MA) to date, including provisions to:
* Protect patients from inappropriate delays and denials;
* Standardize coverage criteria between MA and traditional Medicare;
* Increase transparency surrounding prior authorizations and compliance;
* Penalize plans that fail to meet oversight and compliance benchmarks;
* Reduce administrative burdens through real-time and automated systems;
* Promote prompt payments;
* Prevent retroactive "clawback" of payments for pre-approved, reapproved, and delivered care and services; and
* Strengthen patient access to post-acute care providers.
More seniors are enrolling in Medicare Advantage plans than traditional Medicare because it offers many perks appealing to seniors; however, large, insurer-led MA plans are too often denying or delaying beneficiaries' access to necessary skilled nursing and post-acute care. From 2019 to 2022, the top MA insurers denied prior authorization requests for post-acute care more frequently than for other services. This has contributed to a doubling of seniors leaving MA for traditional Medicare in their final year of life--shifting costs onto taxpayers.
"This bill addresses many of the obstacles driven by insurer-led Medicare Advantage plans that were making it unnecessarily difficult for seniors and their families to navigate care options and receive coverage for medically necessary care," said Nisha Hammel, Vice President of Reimbursement Policy and Population Health at AHCA/NCAL. "Coverage decisions for Medicare Advantage beneficiaries must be driven by each patient's needs and clinical necessity, with appropriate oversight that ensures compliance and patient protections."
AHCA/NCAL has been a consistent advocate on addressing MA challenges in post-acute care. AHCA/NCAL and its Post-Acute Care Coalition partners submitted recommendations to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services on improving MA prior authorization processes last fall. In addition, in a report based on a survey of skilled nursing care providers, AHCA found that denials or delays of medically necessary post-acute care by MA plans occur daily and/or weekly for two-thirds of providers.
The Better Way, AHCA's forward-looking policy agenda to deliver bold solutions for quality long term and post-acute care, identifies MA as one of its key priorities. Through "Reaffirming the Promise of Medicare Advantage," the organization offers several recommendations for alignment among providers, residents, policymakers and the public.
Learn more about the Medicare Advantage Improvement Act of 2026 HERE (https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases/dr-miller-meeks-congressional-doctors-introduce-bipartisan-bill-restore).
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REPORT: https://www.ahcancal.org/News-and-Communications/Fact-Sheets/FactSheets/Provider-Insights-Medicare-Advantage.pdf
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Original text here: https://www.ahcancal.org/News-and-Communications/Press-Releases/Pages/AHCA-NCAL-Applauds-Introduction-Medicare-Advantage-Improvement-Act-2026.aspx
[Category: Health Care]
