Trade Associations
Here's a look at documents from national and international trade associations
Featured Stories
IDFA Welcomes House Appropriations Support for Key Dairy Priorities
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The International Dairy Foods Association issued the following news release on April 23, 2026:
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IDFA Welcomes House Appropriations Support for Key Dairy Priorities
The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today welcomed action by the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration to advance its FY2027 funding bill, including key dairy priorities.
Michael Dykes, president and CEO of IDFA, released the following statement:
"IDFA applauds the Subcommittee for maintaining strong support for dairy across
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WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The International Dairy Foods Association issued the following news release on April 23, 2026:
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IDFA Welcomes House Appropriations Support for Key Dairy Priorities
The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today welcomed action by the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration to advance its FY2027 funding bill, including key dairy priorities.
Michael Dykes, president and CEO of IDFA, released the following statement:
"IDFA applauds the Subcommittee for maintaining strong support for dairy acrossfederal nutrition and innovation programs. The bill's $4 million investment in Healthy Fluid Milk Incentives Projects builds on the program's proven success in stretching SNAP dollars and helping SNAP participants purchase more milk. Additionally, provisions in the bill preserve dairy benefits in WIC and ensure that whole and 2% milk, made available by the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, is applicable to all school meals, securing access to nutrient-dense foods that parents and children need. Sustained funding for the Dairy Business Innovation Initiative will also help drive innovation, strengthen regional supply chains, and create new market opportunities for dairy farmers and processors. IDFA thanks Chairman Andy Harris and Ranking Member Sanford Bishop, Jr. and Subcommittee members for their support of the dairy industry priorities contained in the FY27 funding bill. We look forward to working with Congress to include these priorities in the final FY2027 appropriations package."
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The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), Washington, D.C., represents the nation's dairy manufacturing and marketing industry, which supports more than 3 million jobs that generate $198 billion in direct wages and $779 billion in overall economic impact. IDFA's diverse membership ranges from multinational organizations to single-plant companies, from dairy companies and cooperatives to food retailers and suppliers, all on the cutting edge of innovation and sustainable business practices. Together, they represent most of the milk, cheese, ice cream, yogurt and cultured products, and dairy ingredients produced and marketed in the United States and sold throughout the world. Delicious, safe and nutritious, dairy foods offer unparalleled health and consumer benefits to people of all ages.
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Original text here: https://www.idfa.org/news/idfa-welcomes-house-appropriations-support-for-key-dairy-priorities
[Category: Food/Beverage]
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
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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
National Marine Manufacturers Association: American Boating Congress
CHICAGO, Illinois, April 24 [Category: Business] -- The National Marine Manufacturers Association posted the following news release:
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Looking for the ABC Agenda? Find it here
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For those attending the recreational boating industry's premier advocacy event, the American Boating Congress (ABC), the latest agenda offers a detailed look at the policy discussions that will drive this year's advocacy in Washington, D.C.
Taking place May 4-6, ABC will convene industry leaders and policymakers to focus on the most pressing issues facing recreational boating. This year's program includes a fireside
... Show Full Article
CHICAGO, Illinois, April 24 [Category: Business] -- The National Marine Manufacturers Association posted the following news release:
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Looking for the ABC Agenda? Find it here
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For those attending the recreational boating industry's premier advocacy event, the American Boating Congress (ABC), the latest agenda offers a detailed look at the policy discussions that will drive this year's advocacy in Washington, D.C.
Taking place May 4-6, ABC will convene industry leaders and policymakers to focus on the most pressing issues facing recreational boating. This year's program includes a firesidechat between NMMA President and CEO Frank Hugelmeyer and National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Chief Conservation Officer Holly Bamford, highlighting how conservation and access can work together. Attendees will also hear updates on NOAA's review of the 2008 vessel speed rule and how marine technology is helping to reduce risk while protecting access to our waterways.
The agenda features in-depth policy discussions on reauthorizing the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund and advancing priorities in the Water Resources Development Act, both critical to expanding recreation infrastructure and maintaining access nationwide. Additional sessions will cover trade and tariff developments, including USMCA and Section 301 actions, as well as the evolving regulatory landscape around PFAS, TSCA, and workplace safety standards.
With 95 percent of boats sold in the United States made domestically and 93 percent of boat builders operating as small businesses, ABC provides a critical platform to ensure policymakers understand the impact of their decisions on American manufacturing and outdoor recreation.
View the full agenda here: https://www.nmma.org/advocacy/take-action/abc
Thank you to our American Boating Congress sponsors and co-hosts for their support this year:
Official Sponsors: Yamaha, MarineMax and Informa Markets (Executive); Brunswick (President); Suzuki Marine, Correct Craft, Tiara Yachts (Admiral), Vetus Yanmar, BoatUS, Smokercraft Boats, Volvo Penta, Indmar Marine, Honda Marine (Captain); Design Concepts - Marine Concepts, BRP, Northpoint Financial, International Yacht Brokers Association, Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, Transhield, Center for Sportfishing Policy, imtra (First Mate); Faria Beede, Monterey and Blackfin Boats, Uflex USA, Suntex Marinas, Chaparral Boats, Infolink (Purser).
Supporting Sponsors: Brunswick, ILMOR Marine, Patrick Industries, Boats Group, alliant group, Sunbrella, Regulator Marine, Firecrown Media, BoatUS, Faria Beede, Rollick, National Marine Electronics Association.
Co-Hosts: National Marine Lenders Association, MTA of New Jersey, Massachusetts MTA, Association of Marina Industries, Michigan Boating Industries Association, American Sportfishing Association, Ohio MTA, Marine Industries Association of South Florida.
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Original text here: https://www.nmma.org/press/article/25478
Key tort reform priority headed to Missouri governor's desk
JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri, April 24 [Category: Business] -- The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry posted the following news:
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Key tort reform priority headed to the governor's desk
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State lawmakers delivered a significant victory for the business community this week when the Senate passed legislation to protect employers from predatory lawsuits. The bill now goes to the governor for his consideration.
SBs 907, 1154 and 1272, were shepherded through the legislative process by Sen. Brad Hudson (R-Cape Fair) and the bill's House handler, Rep. Brian Seitz (R-Branson). This legislation
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JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri, April 24 [Category: Business] -- The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry posted the following news:
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Key tort reform priority headed to the governor's desk
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State lawmakers delivered a significant victory for the business community this week when the Senate passed legislation to protect employers from predatory lawsuits. The bill now goes to the governor for his consideration.
SBs 907, 1154 and 1272, were shepherded through the legislative process by Sen. Brad Hudson (R-Cape Fair) and the bill's House handler, Rep. Brian Seitz (R-Branson). This legislationaddresses frivolous lawsuits alleging website accessibility violations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The Missouri Chamber is committed to ensuring Missouri businesses offer equal access to their products and services for all people. The predatory lawsuits addressed by the bill target minor technical issues instead of advancing meaningful accessibility improvements.
The legislation would help protect businesses by establishing a legal process to challenge these types of lawsuits. If a lawsuit is found to be abusive, the court could award attorney fees and costs back to the business.
During debate on the Senate floor, Hudson noted that this bill never received a "no" vote as it made its way through the legislative process. Calling it an "all hands-on deck effort," Hudson thanked several other lawmakers for filing legislation to tackle this problem.
Those who would be protected under this legislation include all entities registered with the Secretary of State's Office, churches, and non-profit groups.
"The bill covers not only websites, but web content to more fully cover items that might be sued on," Hudson noted. "By listing web content in addition to the web site, we will more adequately protect the small business owners of Missouri."
Topics:
Chamber & Capitol News | Missouri Chamber of Commerce Legal Climate
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Original text here: https://mochamber.com/news-archive/key-tort-reform-priority-headed-to-the-governors-desk/
Grants awarded nationwide to support student health, emergency readiness
DALLAS, Texas, April 24 [Category: Health Care] -- The American Heart Association posted the following news release:
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Grants awarded nationwide to support student health, emergency readiness
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Approximately 1 in 5 children in the United States live with obesity -the same number of children who get the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity. To support student health and well-being nationwide, the American Heart Association and the National Football League (NFL) recently awarded grants to 188 schools in 45 states through the Association's school-based programs, Kids Heart Challenge(tm)
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DALLAS, Texas, April 24 [Category: Health Care] -- The American Heart Association posted the following news release:
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Grants awarded nationwide to support student health, emergency readiness
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Approximately 1 in 5 children in the United States live with obesity -the same number of children who get the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity. To support student health and well-being nationwide, the American Heart Association and the National Football League (NFL) recently awarded grants to 188 schools in 45 states through the Association's school-based programs, Kids Heart Challenge(tm)and American Heart Challenge(tm).
This is the second round of grants awarded this year from the $350,000 annual funding pool provided by the NFL through NFL PLAY 60, a campaign supported by the American Heart Association to improve the health of young people by getting them active for at least 60 minutes every day. The expanded funding pool builds on the existing school grant program established by the American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, which in this latest cycle funded CPR readiness programs in schools.
"Educators know what their students need to thrive, and this grant program is designed to help them get there by providing schools with health-focused and cardiac emergency readiness resources that might not otherwise be attainable," said Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association. "We are grateful to the NFL's support in helping to ensure that children everywhere have equal opportunities to live longer, healthier lives, regardless of who they are or where they live."
NFL PLAY 60 grants support specific areas of need identified by schools and educators, including physical activity equipment, FLAG football, recess enhancements and inclusive physical education, and well-being resources.
NFL PLAY 60 is an initiative designed to help children develop healthy habits for a better chance at a longer, healthier life. Rooted in science, the program encourages kids to get a minimum of 60 minutes of vigorous physical activity each day to meet the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.
NFL mascots in the NFL PLAY 60 Ambassador Class are also working to inspire kids to move more to support mental and physical well-being. The current ambassador class includes Freddie Falcon, Atlanta Falcons; Gumbo, New Orleans Saints; Rampage, Los Angeles Rams; Roary, Detroit Lions; Rowdy, Dallas Cowboys; Sir Purr, Carolina Panthers; and T-Rac, Tennessee Titans.
During the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the Association and NFL are also working together to claim the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS(r) title for most people to complete CPR training in one hour. The feat will be attempted with support from Damar Hamlin's Chasing M's foundation and the most followed doctor on social media, Doctor Mike, on Friday, April 24, from 1-2 p.m. ET at Acrisure Stadium. The effort is designed to encourage fans, families and communities to join the Nation of Lifesavers(tm) by learning the simple, lifesaving skill of Hands-Only CPR. Participation is free and registration is open at heart.org/NFLDraft.
Grant applications are accepted year-round, and another group of recipients will be announced in June. More information on NFL PLAY 60 resources and available grant opportunities can be found online at heart.org/NFLPLAY60.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public's health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
About NFL PLAY 60
NFL PLAY 60 is the League's national youth health and wellness platform. For nearly 20 years, the initiative has empowered millions of youth to get physically active for at least 60 minutes a day and provided support for programs and resources so that kids everywhere can lead a healthy lifestyle. Alongside the NFL's 32 NFL clubs and partners, the PLAY 60 movement will continue to serve and motivate the next generation of youth to get active and PLAY 60. For more information, visit NFL.com/PLAY60.
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Original text here: https://newsroom.heart.org/news/grants-awarded-nationwide-to-support-student-health-emergency-readiness
Consumer and Environmental Organizations Applaud and Support California Energy Commission's Fuel-Saving Tire Efficiency Standards
WASHINGTON, April 24 [Category: Consumer Services] -- The Consumer Federation of America posted the following news release:
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Consumer and Environmental Organizations Applaud and Support California Energy Commission's Fuel-Saving Tire Efficiency Standards
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Consumer and environmental advocacy organizations applauded draft standards which would ensure that replacement tires are similarly efficient as those on new cars. These standards, if approved, will help reduce fueling costs and protect air quality.
Last month several consumer and environmental groups signaled their support for CEC's
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 24 [Category: Consumer Services] -- The Consumer Federation of America posted the following news release:
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Consumer and Environmental Organizations Applaud and Support California Energy Commission's Fuel-Saving Tire Efficiency Standards
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Consumer and environmental advocacy organizations applauded draft standards which would ensure that replacement tires are similarly efficient as those on new cars. These standards, if approved, will help reduce fueling costs and protect air quality.
Last month several consumer and environmental groups signaled their support for CEC'seffort.
These proposed standards come at a time when many replacement tires on the market are less efficient than those sold with new vehicles. Drivers buy replacement tires expecting the same level of performance only to find that they can end up with less fuel-efficient replacements. Once approved and fully implemented these proposed standards could save drivers nearly $200 in gasoline costs over the lifetime of a set of replacement tires, according to an independent analysis by Evergreen Economics prepared for the California
Energy Commission (CEC). This same study projects that California drivers will save nearly $1 billion annually in fuel costs from this rule.
"With a worsening affordability crisis, we strongly support this common-sense rule, which delivers cost savings, improves efficiency, and promotes a healthier environment for consumers," said Robert Herrell, Executive Director for the Consumer Federation of California.
"Efficient tires are a cost-effective way to deliver important fuel savings for consumers, which is why most automakers install them from the factory," said Chris Harto, Manager, Sustainability Advocacy at Consumer Reports. "This rule will ensure those savings carry over into the replacement tires market-without sacrificing safety and tire life."
"People expect a replacement set of tires to be as good or better than their old tires. This rule is a commonsense measure to reduce the lifetime cost to fuel vehicles while protecting air quality and reducing fine particulate matter from regular tire wear," said Karim D. Marshall, Director of Climate and Energy Policy at the Consumer Federation of America. "This rule is an important step towards consumers having more information and control over their purchasing decisions."
"This is a big win for Californians. Tire standards offer a simple way to improve affordability, sustainability, and air quality for Californians," said Dan Jacobson, Senior Advisor to Environment California.
"While the federal government attacks the clean air and efficiency standards that protect our health and our wallets, California must keep moving forward," said Beth Hammon, Senior Advocate at NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council). "This rule does exactly that -saving drivers nearly $1 billion a year in fuel costs, cutting emissions equivalent to taking 400,000 gas-powered cars off the road, and reducing the pollution that threatens our health and climate."
"Tire standards are a straightforward solution to make everyday life more affordable and sustainable for California drivers," said Bill Magavern, Policy Director for the Coalition for Clean Air.
"Consumers are purchasing replacement tires that leave them buying more fuel to travel the same distance," said Brian Fadie, State Policy Manager with the Appliance Standards Awareness Project. "These standards will lower costs by ensuring that replacement tires are as efficient as the ones on new cars."
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Original text here: https://consumerfed.org/press_release/consumer-and-environmental-organizations-applaud-and-support-california-energy-commissions-fuel-saving-tire-efficiency-standards/
AARP: Federal Court Allows Major Disability Rights Case to Proceed, Citing Potential Violations in Home-Based Care
WASHINGTON, April 24 -- AARP issued the following news release:
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Federal Court Allows Major Disability Rights Case to Proceed, Citing Potential Violations in Home-Based Care
Concord, N.H.-- A federal judge has ruled that Fitzmorris v. New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, a major disability rights case, will move forward, finding there is evidence that the State's Medicaid-funded long-term care services are failing residents who rely on in-home services to live safely in their communities.
New Hampshire's Choices for Independence (CFI) program is intended to help eligible
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 24 -- AARP issued the following news release:
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Federal Court Allows Major Disability Rights Case to Proceed, Citing Potential Violations in Home-Based Care
Concord, N.H.-- A federal judge has ruled that Fitzmorris v. New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, a major disability rights case, will move forward, finding there is evidence that the State's Medicaid-funded long-term care services are failing residents who rely on in-home services to live safely in their communities.
New Hampshire's Choices for Independence (CFI) program is intended to help eligibleolder adults and people with disabilities live independently in their communities. Plaintiffs allege the State failed to properly administer the program, putting participants at serious risk of unnecessary institutionalization in nursing facilities and other institutions, in violation of federal law.
The U.S. District Court for the District of New Hampshire denied motions for summary judgment, concluding that material facts remain in dispute and must be resolved at trial. The Court found that Plaintiffs presented "ample evidence" that individuals are not receiving the services they are entitled to in the community, and "sufficient evidence" that the State's failure to monitor service delivery in real time is contributing to and worsening these gaps.
The CFI program includes a range of services designed to support people in their homes, including help with daily activities such as cooking, cleaning, bathing, and toileting, as well as transportation and intermittent nursing care. When those services are delayed or denied, individuals can be left with no option but institutional placement.
"New Hampshire residents should not be forced into institutions because the State fails to follow the law," said William Alvarado Rivera, Senior Vice President of Litigation at AARP Foundation. "The Court's decision makes clear that older adults and people with disabilities are not receiving the services they need. We will continue the work needed to ensure our clients' rights to live at home and in their communities are protected."
"This order allows the Plaintiffs to keep pressing the State to fix our broken CFI system. People's lives are at stake, and we remain determined to create a future where CFI participants can access the services they need to live independently," said Jennifer Eber, Litigation Director at Disability Rights Center-NH. "We urge the State to join us in this effort. Instead of spending millions of taxpayer dollars defending a flawed system, those resources should be invested in real solutions that protect and empower CFI participants."
The Court also emphasized the need for stronger State government oversight across the system, noting inadequate reimbursement rates and additional evidence that gaps in care were not effectively addressed. While case management agencies do play a critical role in coordinating services, the opinion highlights the role of the State in consistent monitoring to ensure participants receive necessary care.
The decision further underscores that strengthening the system is both critical for protecting individuals' rights and also makes fiscal sense. The Court noted that home- and community-based care is significantly more cost-effective than institutional care, with the State spending far less per person through the CFI program than it does for care in nursing facilities.
The lawsuit, filed in January 2021, names the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services and its commissioner, Lori Weaver, as defendants. In November 2021, the Court rejected the State's motion to dismiss, allowing the Plaintiffs to proceed with their claims. The Court certified the case as a class action in 2023.
The class is represented by AARP Foundation, Nixon Peabody, New Hampshire Legal Assistance, and Disability Rights Center-New Hampshire.
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About AARP Foundation
AARP Foundation works for and with vulnerable people over 50 to end senior poverty and reduce financial hardship by building economic opportunity. As a charitable affiliate of AARP, we serve AARP members and nonmembers alike. Through vigorous legal advocacy and evidence-based solutions, and by strengthening supportive community connections, we foster resilience, advance equity and restore hope. To learn more, visit aarpfoundation.org or follow @AARPFoundation on social media.
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About Nixon Peabody
Nixon Peabody LLP is an American Lawyer top-100 law firm in the United States and our attorneys work across the globe. Our firm delivers exceptional service to our clients and our communities by combining high performance, entrepreneurial spirit, deep engagement, and an unwavering commitment to a culture of collaboration and humanity. Visit us at www.nixonpeabody.com.
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About Disability Rights Center-New Hampshire
Disability Rights Center - New Hampshire protects, advances, and strengthens the legal rights and advocacy interests of all people with disabilities. More information about DRC-NH can be found at www.drcnh.org.
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About New Hampshire Legal Assistance
New Hampshire Legal Assistance is a nonprofit law firm working to make justice a reality for and with people who experience economic hardship that threatens their basic human needs. Through representation and systemic advocacy, NHLA offers civil legal aid that addresses the effects and root causes of poverty. More information about NHLA can be found at www.nhla.org.
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Original text here: https://www.aarp.org/press/releases/2026-04-23-federal-court-allows-major-disability-rights-case-to-proceed-citing-potential-violations-in-home-based-care/
[Category: Sociological]
