Week in Washington

Reconciliation Round 2?

Discussions around congressional funding of the Department of Homeland Security (including TSA and ICE) continues. One potential avenue would be to pass funding for most of Homeland Security (excluding ICE) and then have Republicans pass a reconciliation bill to fund ICE. In that event, it is possible that health items could be included in a reconciliation bill. The Senate and House are scheduled to go on recess for two weeks after Friday, so if no agreement is reached soon, travel conditions are expected to continue to degrade.

CMS releases Administrative Rule

CMS issued a final rule adopting the first HIPAA standards for electronic health care claims attachments (using X12N v6020 and HL7 attachments implementation guidance), plus electronic signature standards—aimed at reducing fax/mail-based documentation and admin burden.

Helium Shortage

One under covered consequence of the current Iran war is a shortage of helium. About one-third of the world’s liquefied helium is produced in Qatar, which has stopped production due to the war. Helium is needed for MRI scanners as well as other medical procedures and research. Helium shortages could shift utilization patterns.

ACA Survey

KFF released survey data on 2025 Marketplace enrollees. The survey found that about 10% of 2025 Marketplace enrollees were now uninsured. Furthermore, the report noted that about 17% of 2026 Marketplace enrollees were not confident they could afford their premium for the entire year.