The House on Aug. 24 passed a procedural rule to advance the budget resolution for fiscal year (FY) 2022 and set the stage for the chamber’s development of a “human infrastructure” package under the budget reconciliation process. In a concession to moderate Democrats, the rule also calls for the House to vote by Sept. 27 on the Senate-passed bipartisan physical infrastructure legislation.
House committees will meet later this week to mark up their portions of the reconciliation legislation. Of note for essential hospitals, the House Committee on Ways and Means is expected to convene Sept. 9 to begin marking up its section and could take multiple days to complete its work. The House Committee on Energy and Commerce is expected to mark up its section of the reconciliation package Sept. 13.
Senate Letter to HHS on Provider Relief Fund Disbursement
A bipartisan group of senators on Aug. 26 sent a letter urging Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra to implement a more robust and transparent plan for disbursing the remaining dollars in the Provider Relief Fund.
The letter notes HHS’ shifting guidance and technical issues have caused many providers, especially rural providers, to miss out on funding. The letter calls for HHS to distribute remaining funds immediately.
America’s Essential Hospitals Fall Policy Assembly
America’s Essential Hospitals invites you to join us online Oct. 19–20 for our Fall Policy Assembly. Participants will gain insights on the outlook for essential hospital advocacy priorities and the legislative and political landscape on Capitol Hill. Register today!
