APA Federal Policy UpdateWeek of January 19, 2026Federal Hill & Budget Update The U.S. House has passed a funding bill for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that rejects proposed deep cuts and provides $116.6 billion in discretionary funding, closely mirroring the Senate’s version. Because the Senate is currently in recess, action will be needed when senators return in late January to avoid a federal government shutdown ahead of the January 30 deadline. APA Services has issued an action alert urging Congress to finalize FY26 funding while protecting key psychology and behavioral health programs. In addition, congressional leaders announced a bipartisan health care package included with the HHS appropriations bill. The agreement includes reforms related to pharmacy benefit managers, extensions of several public health programs, continued telehealth flexibilities through the end of 2027, and increased funding for community health centers. Some elements of the package, particularly PBM reforms, are expected to face opposition. APA Policy Update APA advocacy staff recently participated in a closed-door congressional listening session on innovations in obesity care and treatment, highlighting barriers to reimbursement for behavioral interventions under Medicare Part B. Health psychologist Dr. Alyson Pashby emphasized the essential role psychologists play in obesity treatment and the need for reimbursement reform. APA also cosponsored a congressional briefing on advancing science related to child and adolescent brain development through its board role with Friends of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). The briefing featured research on youth social media use and the effects of cannabis use during pregnancy. |
