{"description":"Documents matching 'head start programs have covid'","count":574,"total_pages":29,"next_page_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/documents?conditions%5Bterm%5D=head+start+programs+have+covid&format=json&page=2","results":[{"title":"COVID-19 Mitigation Policy Requirement in Head Start Programs; Recission","type":"Rule","abstract":"This direct final rule (DFR) removes the requirement that Head Start programs have a COVID-19 mitigation policy. This requirement was included in the final rule titled \"Mitigating the Spread of COVID-19 in Head Start Programs,\" which ACF published on January 6, 2023. Specifically, this rescission removes the requirement from the Head Start Program Performance Standards (Performance Standards) that Head Start programs have a COVID-19 mitigation policy developed in consultation with their Health and Mental Health Services Advisory Committee (HMHSAC), formerly the Health Services Advisory Committee (HSAC). This DFR meets the deregulatory requirements of Executive Order 14192, Unleashing Prosperity Through Deregulation, and is aligned with Executive Order 14148, Initial Rescissions of Harmful Executive Orders and Actions.","document_number":"2025-23452","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/12/19/2025-23452/covid-19-mitigation-policy-requirement-in-head-start-programs-recission","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2025-12-19/pdf/2025-23452.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2025-23452.pdf?1766065527","publication_date":"2025-12-19","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES","name":"Health and Human Services Department","id":221,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/health-and-human-services-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/221","parent_id":null,"slug":"health-and-human-services-department"},{"raw_name":"Administration for Children and Families","name":"Children and Families Administration","id":49,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/children-and-families-administration","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/49","parent_id":221,"slug":"children-and-families-administration"}],"excerpts":"comments. \n \n \n SUMMARY: \n \n This direct final rule (DFR) removes the requirement that <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> <span class=\"match\">programs</span> <span class=\"match\">have</span> a <span class=\"match\">COVID</span>-19 mitigation policy. This requirement was included in the final rule titled “Mitigating the Spread of <span class=\"match\">COVID</span>-19 in <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> <span class=\"match\">Programs</span>,” which ACF published on January 6, 2023. Specifically, this rescission removes the requirement from the <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> <span class=\"match\">Program</span> Performance Standards (Performance Standards) that <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> <span class=\"match\">programs</span> <span class=\"match\">have</span> a <span class=\"match\">COVID</span>-19 mitigation policy developed in consultation with their Health and Mental Health Services"},{"title":"Head Start Program CLASS Implementation Date Delay","type":"Rule","abstract":"This final rule describes how the Office of Head Start officially delays the date for programs to meet the new competitive threshold for the Instructional Support domain of the Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS[supreg]) used to determine whether a Head Start agency will be subject to an open competition under the Designation Renewal System (DRS). The implementation date in the Head Start Program Performance Standards that raises the CLASS[supreg] Instructional Support competitive threshold from 2.3 to 2.5 was August 1, 2025. This final rule officially delays this implementation date to August 1, 2027.","document_number":"2024-25440","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/11/06/2024-25440/head-start-program-class-implementation-date-delay","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2024-11-06/pdf/2024-25440.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2024-25440.pdf?1730814313","publication_date":"2024-11-06","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES","name":"Health and Human Services Department","id":221,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/health-and-human-services-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/221","parent_id":null,"slug":"health-and-human-services-department"},{"raw_name":"Administration for Children and Families","name":"Children and Families Administration","id":49,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/children-and-families-administration","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/49","parent_id":221,"slug":"children-and-families-administration"}],"excerpts":"and Human Services \n HSPPS—<span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> <span class=\"match\">Program</span> Performance Standards \n OHS—Office of <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> \n II. Executive Summary \n \n This final rule describes how the Office of <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> (OHS) officially delays the date for <span class=\"match\">programs</span> to meet the new competitive threshold for the Instructional Support domain of the Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS®) used to determine whether a <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> agency will be subject to an open competition under the Designation Renewal System (DRS). The implementation date in the <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> <span class=\"match\">Program</span> Performance Standards (HSPPS)"},{"title":"Supporting the Head Start Workforce and Consistent Quality Programming","type":"Rule","abstract":"This final rule makes regulatory changes to the Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS) to support and stabilize the Head Start workforce and improve the quality of services Head Start programs provide to children and families. These changes include requirements for wages and benefits, breaks for staff, and enhanced support for staff health and wellness. The changes also include enhancements to mental health services to better integrate mental health into every aspect of program service delivery. Enhancements are also included in the areas of family service worker family assignments, identifying and meeting community needs, ensuring child safety, services for pregnant women and other pregnant people, and alignment with State early childhood systems. Finally, the changes include minor clarifications to promote better transparency and clarity of understanding for grant recipients.","document_number":"2024-18279","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/08/21/2024-18279/supporting-the-head-start-workforce-and-consistent-quality-programming","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2024-08-21/pdf/2024-18279.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2024-18279.pdf?1723821314","publication_date":"2024-08-21","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES","name":"Health and Human Services Department","id":221,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/health-and-human-services-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/221","parent_id":null,"slug":"health-and-human-services-department"}],"excerpts":"645A, 648A, and 653 of the <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> Act (the Act) (42 U.S.C. 9835, 9836a, 9839(c), 9840, 9840a, 9843a, and 9848), as amended by the Improving <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> for School Readiness Act of 2007 (Pub. L. 110-134). Under these sections, the Secretary is required to establish performance standards and other regulations for <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> and Early <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> <span class=\"match\">programs</span>. Specifically, the Act requires the Secretary to “. . . modify, as necessary, <span class=\"match\">program</span> performance standards by regulation applicable to <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> agencies and <span class=\"match\">programs</span> . . .” \n 1 \n \n and explicitly"},{"title":"Request for Information: Office of Head Start Tribal Programs","type":"Notice","abstract":"Prioritizing and directing resources to American Indian and Alaskan Native (AI/AN) programs to implement, expand, and/or enhance their Head Start services to tribal children and families is critical for meeting federal trust responsibility; preserving, and promoting Native language, culture, and traditions; and addressing the impact of historical trauma on Native Americans. As part of the Administration for Children and Families' (ACF) commitment to partnering with tribal nations to provide high-quality Head Start programming, in addition to regular tribal consultations, the Office of Head Start (OHS) invites public comment on the rules, regulations, and available training and technical assistance (TTA) supports impacting the AI/AN Head Start community. This Request for Information (RFI) seeks input on topics including eligibility; program options; quality environments; child health and safety; tribal language preservation, maintenance, revitalization, and restoration; family and community engagement; workforce; training and technical assistance; partnerships with state systems; facilities; fiscal operations; early childhood systems; and others, to improve the quality of Head Start services in areas of great need and affirm the federal government's commitment to protect Native communities.","document_number":"2024-05573","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/03/18/2024-05573/request-for-information-office-of-head-start-tribal-programs","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2024-03-18/pdf/2024-05573.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2024-05573.pdf?1710506716","publication_date":"2024-03-18","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES","name":"Health and Human Services Department","id":221,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/health-and-human-services-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/221","parent_id":null,"slug":"health-and-human-services-department"},{"raw_name":"Administration for Children and Families","name":"Children and Families Administration","id":49,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/children-and-families-administration","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/49","parent_id":221,"slug":"children-and-families-administration"}],"excerpts":"percent) were preschool-age children (ages 3 to 5 years) served in <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> <span class=\"match\">programs</span> and 5,244 (24 percent) were infants, toddlers, and pregnant women served in Early <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> <span class=\"match\">programs</span>. AI/AN funded enrollment accounted for 2.6 percent of the total funded enrollment in <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> and Early <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span>. \n AI/AN <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> <span class=\"match\">programs</span> are unique because they help fulfill the federal government's trust and responsibility to protect the interests of tribal nations and communities. The <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> Act preserves and reinforces the federal government's commitment"},{"title":"Supporting the Head Start Workforce and Consistent Quality Programming","type":"Proposed Rule","abstract":"We propose to add new requirements to the Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS) to support and stabilize the Head Start workforce, including requirements for wages and benefits, breaks for staff, and enhanced supports for staff health and wellness. We also propose to enhance several existing requirements and add new requirements to promote consistent quality of services across Head Start programs. This includes proposed enhancements to requirements for mental health services to better integrate these services into every aspect of programs as well as elevate the role of mental health consultation to support the well-being of children, families, and staff. Enhancements are also proposed in the areas of family service, worker family assignments, identifying and meeting community needs, ensuring child safety, services for pregnant women and people, and alignment with State early childhood systems. Finally, we propose minor clarifications to existing standards to promote better transparency and clarity of understanding for grant recipients.","document_number":"2023-25038","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/11/20/2023-25038/supporting-the-head-start-workforce-and-consistent-quality-programming","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2023-11-20/pdf/2023-25038.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2023-25038.pdf?1700083040","publication_date":"2023-11-20","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES","name":"Health and Human Services Department","id":221,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/health-and-human-services-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/221","parent_id":null,"slug":"health-and-human-services-department"},{"raw_name":"Administration for Children and Families","name":"Children and Families Administration","id":49,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/children-and-families-administration","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/49","parent_id":221,"slug":"children-and-families-administration"}],"excerpts":"Section 1305.2 establishes definitions for key terms used throughout the HSPPS. These include terms to define <span class=\"match\">programs</span> that operate <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> services, including \n Early <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> Agency, <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> Agency, \n and \n <span class=\"match\">Program</span>. \n We begin by explaining proposed changes to clarify these terms and definitions used to describe <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> and Early <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> <span class=\"match\">programs</span>. Our proposed changes will also promote more consistent use of these terms throughout the HSPPS and in sub-regulatory policy guidance and training and technical assistance (TTA) materials developed"},{"title":"Removal of the Vaccine Requirements for Head Start Programs","type":"Rule","abstract":"This final rule removes the vaccine and testing requirements included in the Interim Final Rule with Comment Period (IFC) titled, \"Vaccine and Mask Requirements To Mitigate the Spread of COVID-19 in Head Start Programs,\" which the Administration for Children and Families published on November 30, 2021. Specifically, this rescission removes the requirement from the Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS) that all Head Start staff, contractors whose activities involve contact with or providing direct services to children and families, and volunteers working in classrooms or directly with children are fully vaccinated for COVID-19. The associated HSPPS requirement that staff who are exempt from the vaccination requirement have \"at least weekly\" COVID-19 testing is also removed.","document_number":"2023-13423","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/06/26/2023-13423/removal-of-the-vaccine-requirements-for-head-start-programs","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2023-06-26/pdf/2023-13423.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2023-13423.pdf?1687524316","publication_date":"2023-06-26","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES","name":"Health and Human Services Department","id":221,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/health-and-human-services-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/221","parent_id":null,"slug":"health-and-human-services-department"},{"raw_name":"Administration for Children and Families","name":"Children and Families Administration","id":49,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/children-and-families-administration","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/49","parent_id":221,"slug":"children-and-families-administration"}],"excerpts":"noted, ACF issued a Final Rule, Mitigating the Spread of <span class=\"match\">COVID</span>-19 in <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> <span class=\"match\">Programs</span>, on January 6, 2023, that requires <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> <span class=\"match\">programs</span> to <span class=\"match\">have</span> an evidence-based <span class=\"match\">COVID</span>-19 mitigation policy developed in consultation with the <span class=\"match\">program's</span> Health Services Advisory Committee (HSAC). ACF recommends that <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> <span class=\"match\">programs</span> use vaccines and tests as part of their mitigation policy to reduce the spread of <span class=\"match\">COVID</span>-19 and reduce the likelihood of mortality or morbidity from infection. <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> <span class=\"match\">programs</span> may choose to include their own requirements to support"},{"title":"Submission for Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Review; Revisions to Recordkeeping To Mitigate the Spread of COVID-19 in Head Start (OMB #: 0970-0583)","type":"Notice","abstract":"The Office of Head Start (OHS), Administration for Children and Families (ACF), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, requests public comment on an extension with changes to recordkeeping requirements for ACF Head Start grant recipients. A Final Rule published on January 6, 2023, added a recordkeeping requirement that Head Start grant recipients update their program policies and procedures to include an evidence-based COVID-19 mitigation policy. OHS requested and received emergency approval from OMB to implement the updated recordkeeping requirement as required in the Final Rule. Approval was for 6 months. Subsequently, a final rule was published on June 26, 2023, which removed all previously approved vaccination recordkeeping requirements and the requirement to maintain a testing protocol. This request is to remove these requirements from the information collection and extend approval of the remaining recordkeeping requirement under this OMB number for an additional 3 years.","document_number":"2023-13893","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/06/30/2023-13893/submission-for-office-of-management-and-budget-omb-review-revisions-to-recordkeeping-to-mitigate-the","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2023-06-30/pdf/2023-13893.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2023-13893.pdf?1688042717","publication_date":"2023-06-30","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES","name":"Health and Human Services Department","id":221,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/health-and-human-services-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/221","parent_id":null,"slug":"health-and-human-services-department"},{"raw_name":"Administration for Children and Families","name":"Children and Families Administration","id":49,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/children-and-families-administration","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/49","parent_id":221,"slug":"children-and-families-administration"}],"excerpts":"ACTION: \n Request for public comments. \n \n \n SUMMARY: \n The Office of <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> (OHS), Administration for Children and Families (ACF), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, requests public comment on an extension with changes to recordkeeping requirements for ACF <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> grant recipients. A Final Rule published on January 6, 2023, added a recordkeeping requirement that <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> grant recipients update their <span class=\"match\">program</span> policies and procedures to include an evidence-based <span class=\"match\">COVID</span>-19 mitigation policy. OHS requested and received emergency approval"},{"title":"Mitigating the Spread of COVID-19 in Head Start Programs","type":"Rule","abstract":"This final rule removes the requirement for universal masking for all individuals ages 2 and older. This final rule requires that Head Start programs have an evidence-based COVID-19 mitigation policy, developed in consultation with their Health Services Advisory Committee. This final rule does not address the vaccination and testing requirement, which is still under review. The vaccine requirement remains in effect.","document_number":"2022-28451","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/01/06/2022-28451/mitigating-the-spread-of-covid-19-in-head-start-programs","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2023-01-06/pdf/2022-28451.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2022-28451.pdf?1672956315","publication_date":"2023-01-06","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES","name":"Health and Human Services Department","id":221,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/health-and-human-services-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/221","parent_id":null,"slug":"health-and-human-services-department"},{"raw_name":"Administration for Children and Families","name":"Children and Families Administration","id":49,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/children-and-families-administration","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/49","parent_id":221,"slug":"children-and-families-administration"}],"excerpts":"section 641A of the <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> Act allows the Secretary to “modify, as necessary, <span class=\"match\">program</span> performance standards by regulation applicable to <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> agencies and <span class=\"match\">programs</span>.” In developing this modification, the Secretary included relevant considerations pursuant to section 641A(a)(2) of the <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> Act, 42 U.S.C. 9836a(a)(2). The Secretary finds it necessary and appropriate to set health and safety standards for <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> <span class=\"match\">programs</span> to ensure they respond to the evolving <span class=\"match\">COVID</span>-19 pandemic to keep the environment where <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> services are provided"},{"title":"Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards; Pedestrian Head Protection, Global Technical Regulation No. 9; Incorporation by Reference","type":"Proposed Rule","abstract":"NHTSA proposes a new Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) that would ensure passenger vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 4,536 kilograms (kg) (10,000 pounds (lb)) or less are designed to mitigate the risk of serious to fatal injury in child and adult pedestrian crashes. The proposed standard would establish test procedures simulating a head-to-hood impact and performance requirements to minimize the risk of head injury. This NPRM is based on a Global Technical Regulation (GTR) on pedestrian protection, with focused enhancements to address safety problems and a regulatory framework unique to the United States.","document_number":"2024-20653","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/09/19/2024-20653/federal-motor-vehicle-safety-standards-pedestrian-head-protection-global-technical-regulation-no-9","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2024-09-19/pdf/2024-20653.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2024-20653.pdf?1726663522","publication_date":"2024-09-19","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION","name":"Transportation Department","id":492,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/transportation-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/492","parent_id":null,"slug":"transportation-department"},{"raw_name":"National Highway Traffic Safety Administration","name":"National Highway Traffic Safety Administration","id":345,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/national-highway-traffic-safety-administration","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/345","parent_id":492,"slug":"national-highway-traffic-safety-administration"}],"excerpts":"Pedestrians sustaining life-threatening injuries typically <span class=\"match\">have</span> <span class=\"match\">head</span> and thorax injuries caused by contact with the vehicle. A NHTSA study using both U.S. and German crash data found that the <span class=\"match\">head</span> and lower extremities are the most common injury locations on a struck pedestrian.\n 31 \n \n The <span class=\"match\">head</span>, legs, and thorax are the most common locations for serious injury, and the <span class=\"match\">head</span>, legs, and pelvis/hip are the most common locations for disabling injuries. A NHTSA study analyzing the potential effect of the <span class=\"match\">head</span>, upper leg and lower leg component test procedures"},{"title":"Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Expedited Review and Public Comment: Revisions to Recordkeeping To Mitigate the Spread of COVID-19 in Head Start (OMB #: 0970-0583)","type":"Notice","abstract":"The Office of Head Start, Administration for Children and Families (ACF), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is requesting expedited review from OMB and inviting public comments on revisions to the recordkeeping requirements under Recordkeeping to Mitigate the Spread of COVID-19 in Head Start (OMB #: 0970-0583). A Final Rule requires grant recipients to update their program policies and procedures to include an evidence-based COVID-19 mitigation policy developed in consultation with their Health Services Advisory Committee.","document_number":"2023-00429","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/01/12/2023-00429/office-of-management-and-budget-omb-expedited-review-and-public-comment-revisions-to-recordkeeping","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2023-01-12/pdf/2023-00429.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2023-00429.pdf?1673444720","publication_date":"2023-01-12","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES","name":"Health and Human Services Department","id":221,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/health-and-human-services-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/221","parent_id":null,"slug":"health-and-human-services-department"},{"raw_name":"Administration for Children and Families","name":"Children and Families Administration","id":49,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/children-and-families-administration","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/49","parent_id":221,"slug":"children-and-families-administration"}],"excerpts":"Request for public comments. \n \n \n SUMMARY: \n \n The Office of <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span>, Administration for Children and Families (ACF), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is requesting expedited review from OMB and inviting public comments on revisions to the recordkeeping requirements under \n Recordkeeping to Mitigate the Spread of <span class=\"match\">COVID</span>-19 in <span class=\"match\">Head</span> <span class=\"match\">Start</span> \n (OMB #: 0970-0583). A Final Rule requires grant recipients to update their <span class=\"match\">program</span> policies and procedures to include an evidence-based <span class=\"match\">COVID</span>-19 mitigation policy developed in consultation with their"},{"title":"Visas: Enhancing Vetting and Combatting Fraud in the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program","type":"Rule","abstract":"The Department of State (\"Department\") is amending regulations governing the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program (\"DV Program\") to improve the integrity of, and combat fraud in, the program. These amendments require a petitioner to the DV Program to provide valid, unexpired passport information and to upload a scan of the biographic and signature page in the electronic entry form or to otherwise indicate that he or she is exempt from this requirement. Additionally, the Department is standardizing and amending its regulations to add the word \"shall\" to simplify guidance for consular officers; ensure the use of the term \"sex\" in lieu of \"gender\"; and replace the term \"age\" in the DV Program regulations with the phrase \"date of birth\" to accurately reflect the information collected and maintained by the Department during the immigrant visa process.","document_number":"2026-04737","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/03/11/2026-04737/visas-enhancing-vetting-and-combatting-fraud-in-the-diversity-immigrant-visa-program","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2026-03-11/pdf/2026-04737.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2026-04737.pdf?1773146710","publication_date":"2026-03-11","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF STATE","name":"State Department","id":476,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/state-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/476","parent_id":null,"slug":"state-department"}],"excerpts":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/diversity-visa-<span class=\"match\">program</span>-entry/diversity-visa-<span class=\"match\">program</span>-statistics.html. \n \n \n \n Table 1—Diversity Visa <span class=\"match\">Program</span> Participation Levels 2016-2025 <span class=\"match\">Program</span> Years \n \n   \n Diversity Visa <span class=\"match\">Program</span> \n <span class=\"match\">Program</span> year \n Entrants \n Selectees \n \n Visas\n issued *** \n \n \n \n Pre-Requirement \n 2016 \n 11,391,146 \n 91,563 \n 46,718 \n \n \n   \n 2017 \n 12,437,190 \n 83,910 \n 49,976 \n \n \n   \n 2018 \n 14,692,258 \n 89,540 \n 49,713 \n \n \n   \n 2019 \n 14,352,013 \n 87,610 \n 45,889 \n \n \n   \n 2020 \n 14,722,798 \n 83,884 \n * 19,125 \n \n \n Passport"},{"title":"Visas: Enhancing Vetting and Combatting Fraud in the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program","type":"Proposed Rule","abstract":"The Department of State (\"Department\") proposes to amend regulations governing the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program (\"DV Program\") to improve the integrity and combat fraud in the program. The Department proposes to require petitioners to the DV Program to provide valid, unexpired passport information and a scan of the biographic and signature page uploaded to their electronic entry form, or otherwise indicate that they are exempt from this requirement. Additionally, the Department also proposes to standardize and amend language in 22 CFR part 42, including by adding the word \"shall\" to simplify guidance for consular officers; ensuring the use of the term \"sex\" in lieu of \"gender\" as mandated by Executive Order 14168; and replacing the term \"age\" in 22 CFR 42.33(h)(1)(i) with the phrase \"date of birth\" to accurately reflect the information collected and maintained by the Department during the immigrant visa process.","document_number":"2025-14784","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/08/05/2025-14784/visas-enhancing-vetting-and-combatting-fraud-in-the-diversity-immigrant-visa-program","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2025-08-05/pdf/2025-14784.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2025-14784.pdf?1754311512","publication_date":"2025-08-05","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF STATE","name":"State Department","id":476,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/state-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/476","parent_id":null,"slug":"state-department"}],"excerpts":"notice and comment rulemaking as it is undertaking here.\n \n \n \n \n 19 \n  \n See Diversity Visa <span class=\"match\">Program</span> Statistics: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/diversity-visa-<span class=\"match\">program</span>-entry/diversity-visa-<span class=\"match\">program</span>-statistics.html. \n \n \n \n Table 1—Diversity Visa <span class=\"match\">Program</span> Participation Levels 2016-2023 <span class=\"match\">Program</span> Years \n \n   \n Diversity visa <span class=\"match\">program</span> \n <span class=\"match\">Program</span> year \n Entrants \n Selectees \n Visas issued \n \n \n Pre-Requirement \n 2016 \n 11,391,146 \n 91,563 \n 46,718 \n \n \n   \n 2017 \n 12,437,190 \n 83,910 \n 49,976 \n \n \n   \n 2018 \n 14,692,258 \n 115"},{"title":"Medicare and Medicaid Programs; CY 2026 Payment Policies Under the Physician Fee Schedule and Other Changes to Part B Payment and Coverage Policies; Medicare Shared Savings Program Requirements; and Medicare Prescription Drug Inflation Rebate Program","type":"Rule","abstract":"This major final rule addresses: changes to the physician fee schedule (PFS); other changes to Medicare Part B payment policies to ensure that payment systems are updated to reflect changes in medical practice, relative value of services, and changes in the statute; codification of establishment of new policies for: the Medicare Prescription Drug Inflation Rebate Program under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022; the Ambulatory Specialty Model; updates to the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program expanded model; updates to drugs and biological products paid under Part B; Medicare Shared Savings Program requirements; updates to the Quality Payment Program; updates to policies for Rural Health Clinics and Federally Qualified Health Centers; update to the Ambulance Fee Schedule regulations; codification of the Inflation Reduction Act and Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 provisions; updates to the Medicare Promoting Interoperability Program.","document_number":"2025-19787","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/11/05/2025-19787/medicare-and-medicaid-programs-cy-2026-payment-policies-under-the-physician-fee-schedule-and-other","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2025-11-05/pdf/2025-19787.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2025-19787.pdf?1761945018","publication_date":"2025-11-05","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES","name":"Health and Human Services Department","id":221,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/health-and-human-services-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/221","parent_id":null,"slug":"health-and-human-services-department"},{"raw_name":"Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services","name":"Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services","id":45,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/centers-for-medicare-medicaid-services","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/45","parent_id":221,"slug":"centers-for-medicare-medicaid-services"}],"excerpts":"rebatable drug for which a manufacturer provides a discount under the 340B <span class=\"match\">Program</span> for the applicable period beginning October 1, 2025, as well as the establishment of a voluntary 340B data repository for Part D claims for testing purposes. \n This final rule modifies policies for the Shared Savings <span class=\"match\">Program</span>, which is a voluntary <span class=\"match\">program</span> that <span class=\"match\">started</span> in 2012. The <span class=\"match\">program</span> allows healthcare providers to form or participate in Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs), to be held accountable for the quality and total cost of care for an assigned population"},{"title":"Medicare and Medicaid Programs; CY 2026 Payment Policies Under the Physician Fee Schedule and Other Changes to Part B Payment and Coverage Policies; Medicare Shared Savings Program Requirements; and Medicare Prescription Drug Inflation Rebate Program","type":"Proposed Rule","abstract":"This major proposed rule addresses: changes to the physician fee schedule (PFS); other changes to Medicare Part B payment policies to ensure that payment systems are updated to reflect changes in medical practice, relative value of services, and changes in the statute; codification of establishment of new policies for: the Medicare Prescription Drug Inflation Rebate Program under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022; the Ambulatory Specialty Model; updates to the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program expanded model; updates to drugs and biological products paid under Part B; Medicare Shared Savings Program requirements; updates to the Quality Payment Program; updates to policies for Rural Health Clinics and Federally Qualified Health Centers update to the Ambulance Fee Schedule regulations; codification of the Inflation Reduction Act and Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 provisions; updates to the Medicare Promoting Interoperability Program.","document_number":"2025-13271","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/07/16/2025-13271/medicare-and-medicaid-programs-cy-2026-payment-policies-under-the-physician-fee-schedule-and-other","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2025-07-16/pdf/2025-13271.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2025-13271.pdf?1752524111","publication_date":"2025-07-16","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES","name":"Health and Human Services Department","id":221,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/health-and-human-services-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/221","parent_id":null,"slug":"health-and-human-services-department"},{"raw_name":"Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services","name":"Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services","id":45,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/centers-for-medicare-medicaid-services","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/45","parent_id":221,"slug":"centers-for-medicare-medicaid-services"}],"excerpts":"of a Part D rebate amount, and proposes a methodology for removal of units for a Part D rebatable drug for which a manufacturer provides a discount under the 340B <span class=\"match\">Program</span>, as well as the establishment of a 340B data repository for Part D claims. \n This rulemaking proposes to modify policies for the Shared Savings <span class=\"match\">Program</span>, which is a voluntary <span class=\"match\">program</span> that <span class=\"match\">started</span> in 2012. The <span class=\"match\">program</span> allows healthcare providers to form or participate in Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs), to be held accountable for the quality and total cost of care for an assigned"},{"title":"Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Calendar Year 2026 Home Health Prospective Payment System (HH PPS) Rate Update; Requirements for the HH Quality Reporting Program and the HH Value-Based Purchasing Expanded Model; Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) Competitive Bidding Program Updates; DMEPOS Accreditation Requirements; Provider Enrollment; and Other Medicare and Medicaid Policies","type":"Rule","abstract":"This final rule sets forth routine updates to the Medicare home health payment rates in accordance with existing statutory and regulatory requirements. In addition, this final rule finalizes permanent and temporary behavior adjustments and recalibrates the case- mix weights and update the functional impairment levels; comorbidity subgroups; and low-utilization payment adjustment (LUPA) thresholds for CY 2026. This final rule also finalizes changes to the face-to-face encounter policy and changes to the Home Health Quality Reporting Program (HH QRP) and the expanded Health Value-Based Purchasing (HHVBP) Model requirements. In addition, it updates the Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) Competitive Bidding Program (CBP). Lastly it finalizes: a technical change to the HH conditions of participation; updates to DMEPOS supplier conditions of payment; updates to provider and supplier enrollment requirements; and changes to DMEPOS accreditation requirements.","document_number":"2025-21767","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/12/02/2025-21767/medicare-and-medicaid-programs-calendar-year-2026-home-health-prospective-payment-system-hh-pps-rate","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2025-12-02/pdf/2025-21767.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2025-21767.pdf?1764364516","publication_date":"2025-12-02","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES","name":"Health and Human Services Department","id":221,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/health-and-human-services-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/221","parent_id":null,"slug":"health-and-human-services-department"},{"raw_name":"Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services","name":"Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services","id":45,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/centers-for-medicare-medicaid-services","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/45","parent_id":221,"slug":"centers-for-medicare-medicaid-services"}],"excerpts":"QRP currently includes 19 measures for the CY 2026 <span class=\"match\">program</span> year, as described in table C-19. \n BILLING CODE 4120-01-P \n \n \n ER02DE25.043 \n \n \n BILLING CODE 4120-01-C \n D. Removal of the “<span class=\"match\">COVID</span>-19 Vaccine: Percent of Patients/Residents Who Are Up to Date” (Patient/Resident <span class=\"match\">COVID</span>-19 Vaccine Measure) Beginning With the CY 2026 HH QRP \n In the CY 2026 HH PPS proposed rule, we proposed to remove the <span class=\"match\">COVID</span>-19 Vaccine: Percent of Patients/Residents Who Are Up to Date” measure (“Patient/Resident <span class=\"match\">COVID</span>-19 Vaccine” measure) beginning with the CY 2026 HH QRP"},{"title":"Medicare Program; Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment Systems for Acute Care Hospitals (IPPS) and the Long-Term Care Hospital Prospective Payment System and Policy Changes and Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Rates; Requirements for Quality Programs; and Other Policy Changes","type":"Proposed Rule","abstract":"This proposed rule would revise the Medicare hospital inpatient prospective payment systems (IPPS) for operating and capital- related costs of acute care hospitals; make changes relating to Medicare graduate medical education (GME) for teaching hospitals; update the payment policies and the annual payment rates for the Medicare prospective payment system (PPS) for inpatient hospital services provided by long-term care hospitals (LTCHs); update and make changes to requirements for certain quality programs; and make other policy-related changes.","document_number":"2026-07203","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/04/14/2026-07203/medicare-program-hospital-inpatient-prospective-payment-systems-for-acute-care-hospitals-ipps-and","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2026-04-14/pdf/2026-07203.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2026-07203.pdf?1775852113","publication_date":"2026-04-14","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES","name":"Health and Human Services Department","id":221,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/health-and-human-services-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/221","parent_id":null,"slug":"health-and-human-services-department"},{"raw_name":"Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services","name":"Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services","id":45,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/centers-for-medicare-medicaid-services","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/45","parent_id":221,"slug":"centers-for-medicare-medicaid-services"}],"excerpts":"Reduction <span class=\"match\">Program</span> and Hospital Acquired Condition Reduction <span class=\"match\">Program</span>—Administration Issues.\n \n \n Ngozi Uzokwe, \n ngozi.uzokwe@cms.hhs.gov, \n Hospital Acquired Condition Reduction <span class=\"match\">Program</span> and Hospital Readmissions Reduction <span class=\"match\">Program</span>—Measures Issues.\n \n \n Julia Venanzi, \n julia.venanzi@cms.hhs.gov, \n Hospital Inpatient Quality Reporting <span class=\"match\">Program</span> and Hospital Value-Based Purchasing <span class=\"match\">Program</span>—Administration Issues.\n \n \n Melissa Hager, \n melissa.hager@cms.hhs.gov, \n and Ngozi Uzokwe, \n ngozi.uzokwe@cms.hhs.gov \n —Hospital Inpatient Quality Reporting <span class=\"match\">Program</span> and"},{"title":"Administrative Leave for Workforce Realignment and Other Purposes","type":"Proposed Rule","abstract":"The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) proposes to amend its regulations to more fully address the appropriate uses of administrative leave, including use in connection with deferred resignation programs and other workforce realignment initiatives, and for other purposes. OPM is also proposing to amend its regulation on resignations to clarify when an agency may accept or deny an employee's request to withdraw a resignation in the context of a deferred resignation program.","document_number":"2026-13073","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/06/29/2026-13073/administrative-leave-for-workforce-realignment-and-other-purposes","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2026-06-29/pdf/2026-13073.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2026-13073.pdf?1782477918","publication_date":"2026-06-29","agencies":[{"raw_name":"OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT","name":"Personnel Management Office","id":406,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/personnel-management-office","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/406","parent_id":null,"slug":"personnel-management-office"}],"excerpts":"employees do not <span class=\"match\">have</span> a work schedule that makes them account for specific hours through work or time off.\n \n Section630.1402—Definitions \n OPM is proposing to remove the definition of “<span class=\"match\">head</span> of the agency” from § 630.1402. The definition was developed to be used in connection with the originally proposed version of § 630.1403(a)(5)(i) that appeared in proposed regulations published by OPM on July 13, 2017 (82 FR 32263), and that required approval of administrative leave policies by the <span class=\"match\">head</span> of the agency. The definition of “<span class=\"match\">head</span> of the agency” allowed"},{"title":"Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program: Program Purpose and Work Requirement Provisions of the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023","type":"Rule","abstract":"This final rule implements three provisions of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) of 2023, affecting the program purpose and individuals subject to the able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWD) time limit for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). These changes do the following: add language about assisting low-income adults in obtaining employment and increasing their earnings to the program purpose; update and define exceptions from the ABAWD time limit; and adjust the number of discretionary exemptions available to State agencies each year. This rule also clarifies procedures for when State agencies must screen for exceptions to the time limit and verification requirements for exceptions.","document_number":"2024-29072","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/12/17/2024-29072/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-program-purpose-and-work-requirement-provisions-of-the","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2024-12-17/pdf/2024-29072.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2024-29072.pdf?1734356716","publication_date":"2024-12-17","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE","name":"Agriculture Department","id":12,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/agriculture-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/12","parent_id":null,"slug":"agriculture-department"},{"raw_name":"Food and Nutrition Service","name":"Food and Nutrition Service","id":200,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/food-and-nutrition-service","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/200","parent_id":12,"slug":"food-and-nutrition-service"}],"excerpts":"final regulatory flexibility analysis “shall not apply to any proposed or final rule if the <span class=\"match\">head</span> of the agency certifies that the rule will not, if promulgated, <span class=\"match\">have</span> a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.” The Department has certified that this rule would not <span class=\"match\">have</span> a significant impact on a substantial number of small entities because the changes required by the regulations are directed toward State agencies operating SNAP <span class=\"match\">programs</span>. \n Congressional Review Act \n \n Pursuant to the Congressional Review Act (5 U.S.C. 801"},{"title":"Medicare Program: Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment Systems; Quality Reporting Programs; Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating; Hospital Price Transparency; and Notice of Closure of a Teaching Hospital and Opportunity To Apply for Available Slots","type":"Rule","abstract":"This final rule with comment period revises the Medicare Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) and the Medicare Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) payment system for calendar year 2026 based on our continuing experience with these systems. We also describe the changes to the amounts and factors used to determine the payment rates for Medicare services paid under the OPPS and those paid under the ASC payment systems. In addition, this final rule with comment period announces the closure of a teaching hospital and the opportunity to apply for available slots, and updates and refines the requirements for the Hospital Outpatient Quality Reporting Program, Rural Emergency Hospital Quality Reporting Program, Ambulatory Surgical Center Quality Reporting Program, Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating, and hospitals to make public their standard charge information and enforcement of hospital price transparency, as well as summarizes comments received in response to a request for information on measure concepts regarding Well-Being and Nutrition for consideration in future years for the OQR, REHQR, and ASCQR programs.","document_number":"2025-20907","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/11/25/2025-20907/medicare-program-hospital-outpatient-prospective-payment-and-ambulatory-surgical-center-payment","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2025-11-25/pdf/2025-20907.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2025-20907.pdf?1763759710","publication_date":"2025-11-25","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES","name":"Health and Human Services Department","id":221,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/health-and-human-services-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/221","parent_id":null,"slug":"health-and-human-services-department"},{"raw_name":"Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services","name":"Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services","id":45,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/centers-for-medicare-medicaid-services","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/45","parent_id":221,"slug":"centers-for-medicare-medicaid-services"},{"raw_name":"Office of the Secretary"}],"excerpts":"• \n Cross-<span class=\"match\">Program</span> Updates for the Hospital Outpatient Quality Reporting (OQR), Rural Emergency Hospital Quality Reporting (REHQR), and Ambulatory Surgical Center Quality Reporting (ASCQR) <span class=\"match\">Programs</span>: \n We are finalizing the removal of: (1) the <span class=\"match\">COVID</span>-19 Vaccination Coverage Among Healthcare Personnel (HCP) measure from the Hospital OQR and ASCQR <span class=\"match\">Program</span> measure sets beginning with the CY 2024 reporting period/CY 2026 payment determination; (2) the Hospital Commitment to Health Equity (HCHE) measure from the Hospital OQR and REHQR <span class=\"match\">Program</span> measure sets"},{"title":"Medicare Program; Ensuring Safety Through Domestic Security With Made in America Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Essential Medicine Procurement by Medicare Participating Hospitals","type":"Proposed Rule","abstract":"This advance notice of proposed rulemaking solicits public comment on potential options we may consider for Medicare participating hospitals to help foster a more resilient supply chain for American- made personal protective equipment and essential medicines to secure our nation's health and safety and to reflect the additional resource costs incurred when procuring these domestically manufactured items. We seek input on a possible new \"Secure American Medical Supplies\" friendly designation that could be earned by hospitals that demonstrate their commitment to domestic procurement. In addition, we seek input on potential ways such a designation could facilitate the creation of new, streamlined payment policies to support hospitals in their efforts. We are also seeking input on a potential new structural quality measure as part of the Hospital Inpatient Quality Reporting (IQR) Program that could promote hospital commitments to invest in domestic procurement to secure our nation's health and safety.","document_number":"2026-01730","html_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/01/29/2026-01730/medicare-program-ensuring-safety-through-domestic-security-with-made-in-america-personal-protective","pdf_url":"https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2026-01-29/pdf/2026-01730.pdf","public_inspection_pdf_url":"https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2026-01730.pdf?1769465709","publication_date":"2026-01-29","agencies":[{"raw_name":"DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES","name":"Health and Human Services Department","id":221,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/health-and-human-services-department","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/221","parent_id":null,"slug":"health-and-human-services-department"},{"raw_name":"Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services","name":"Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services","id":45,"url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/centers-for-medicare-medicaid-services","json_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/api/v1/agencies/45","parent_id":221,"slug":"centers-for-medicare-medicaid-services"}],"excerpts":"patient safety that may result from more resilient domestic supply chains for critical PPE and essential medicines? \n V. Hospital IQR <span class=\"match\">Program</span> Measure \n This section discusses the background and history of the Hospital IQR <span class=\"match\">Program</span> and a request for information on a structural measure of domestic procurement. \n A. Background and History of the Hospital IQR <span class=\"match\">Program</span> \n The Hospital IQR <span class=\"match\">Program</span> is a pay-for-reporting <span class=\"match\">program</span> intended to measure the quality of hospital inpatient services, improve the quality of care provided to Medicare beneficiaries, and"}]}