Policy Updates

On February 3, 2026, the Consolidated Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2026 passed Congress and was signed into law by President Trump. The enacted bill includes extending coverage flexibilities for Medicare telehealth services through December 31, 2027.

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The longest shutdown in U.S. history may be over, but Congress's work is not over yet. Reopening the government after more than 40 days eases many fears but is just the first step in healing the harm caused by this lapse in funding. Now Congress must finish the job and pass the rest of the appropriations bills to fully fund the government for fiscal year 2026.

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The longest government shutdown continues, but recently the Senate took a crucial step toward reaching a deal. Late Sunday night, eight Democrats joined Republicans in a procedural vote to end debate and move forward to pass a legislative package that—if approved by the House—would end the shutdown.

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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) ran out of funds on November 1. The Trump Administration could fund the SNAP program through November using the SNAP Contingency Fund and other money available through the Child Nutrition Program.

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The 2025 government shutdown is entering the fourth week, setting course to become one of the longest shutdowns in American history. Congress remains at an impasse. The House has been out of session for more than a month since passing their partisan version of the budget.

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With Congress failing to extend the COVID-19 era Medicare telehealth flexibilities beyond September 30, licensed clinical social workers and other Medicare providers are forced to confront fresh uncertainty surrounding the statutory requirements applicable when providing Medicare services via telehealth.

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Beginning in May, the Department of Education began a negotiated rulemaking process to create new rules that would restrict which employers qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

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NASW has been working with our champions in Congress to advance the Expanding Seniors Access to Mental Health Services Act (S. 1797/H.R. 3808).

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On Friday, July 4, the Republican-led budget bill was signed into law. The bill, officially named the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, is the first of this Congress to use the reconciliation process. Both chambers agreed to speed up the timeline for bill drafting, markup, and passage through a detailed and highly partisan process.

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Throughout the pandemic NASW highlighted the critical importance of telehealth. The audio-only provision ensures that individuals without reliable internet access or those uncomfortable with video technology can still receive therapy and counseling. The delayed in-person requirement addresses barriers such as transportation challenges and geographic isolation, which often prevent clients from accessing consistent care

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