In response to a joint proposal, America’s Essential Hospitals expressed concern about mandating the public posting of payer-specific negotiated rates and urged the departments of Labor, Treasury, and Health and Human Services to seek alternatives that better serve consumers.

The guidance comes in response to a recent federal court decision striking down a regulation expanding the availability of association health plans.

The United States District Court for the District of Columbia ruled that expanding the availability of association health plans illegally circumvents the Affordable Care Act and violates the intent of federal insurance laws.

Senators left Washington earlier than expected to campaign for midterm elections after confirming 15 federal judicial nominees and failing to overturn a regulation expanding short-term insurance plans.

The new guidance outlines the types of rules association health plans must follow under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act and reiterates that states and the Department of Labor have a joint responsibility to regulate such plans.

Under the final rule , short-term, limited-duration insurance plans can be issued for up to 12 months, with a maximum duration of 36 months after renewals and extensions.

Senate action on opioid legislation has been delayed by the debate over the Supreme Court nomination and what to include in the final package; Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said senators likely will consider opioid legislation after the August recess.

The Department of Labor has issued a final rule expanding the definition of "employer" for purposes of establishing association health plans.

Lawmakers previously aimed to pass an opioid package by Memorial Day; Committee hearings focus on the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Act, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the president's blueprint to lower drug prices.

CMS stands by its decision to prohibit states from directing payments under managed care, but responds to association concerns by adding flexibility to the policy.