Currently, at least 24 bills in nine states focus on transgender patients, and four states in 2023 have legalized restrictions on gender-affirming care.

A coalition of 22 states argues that the vaccine mandate has intensified workforce shortages at health care facilities and limited patient access to care.

New laws in Wisconsin and Utah criminalize threats against health care workers, while other state legislatures consider similar bills.

At least 20 states are pursuing legislation to limit access to gender-affirming care for transgender youth, while some states have proposed legislation to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

The highly contagious COVID-19 delta variant has been found in all 50 states and experts warn unvaccinated individuals and younger populations are highly susceptible. This variant presents a significant threat in states with low vaccination rates, including Arkansas, Missouri, Nevada, and Utah.

In recent weeks, several states passed legislation related to the COVID-19 public health crisis, including bills establishing vaccination authority, patient rights, and data reporting requirements. Utah on April 10 will lift its statewide mask mandate.

The Department of Health and Human Services distributed a lateral flow COVID-19 diagnostic test to states and territories across the country. Several states — including Arkansas, Kentucky, Nevada, New York, Oregon, and Utah—are using the tests to target vulnerable populations.

Many states are beginning to lift restrictions put in place to reduce the spread of COVID-19, including resuming elective surgeries in hospitals. Meanwhile, the National Association of Medicaid Directors urges the administration work with Medicaid directors to distribute needed funds to providers.