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Rural Health
News by Topic: Policy

Aug 12, 2026 - The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is requesting comments on an information collection titled "Electronic Funds Transfer Authorization Agreement" regarding electronic collection and verification of payment information for Medicare providers/suppliers. Comments are due October 13, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Aug 12, 2026 - The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is seeking nominations for the National Vaccine Advisory Committee, which provides advice and makes recommendations to the Director of the National Vaccine Program. Nominations are due 30 days from publication of this notice.
Source: Federal Register
Aug 11, 2026 - Notice from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requesting comments on the process used to accelerate Medicare coverage through the Regulatory Alignment for Predictable and Immediate Device (RAPID) coverage pathway for new technologies. The RAPID coverage pathway will provide accelerated Medicare beneficiary access to certain eligible Class II and Class III Food and Drug Administration Breakthrough-designated Devices. Comments are due October 13, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Aug 11, 2026 - The Department of Homeland Security has issued an interim final rule and request for comments regarding mandatory electronic filing (e-filing) for certain benefits in the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services process. Includes information on requesting a waiver, the availability of broadband in rural areas, and the e-filing process for H-1B visas. The interim final rule is effective August 11, 2026 and comments are due October 13, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Aug 11, 2026 - Notice from the Health Resources and Services Administration providing the Health Center Program Scope of Project Policy Manual which offers guidance on the Health Center Program project under section 330 of the Public Health Service (PHS) Act. Also includes a link to comments on a previous draft of the manual.
Source: Federal Register
Aug 10, 2026 - Announces additional resources and flexibilities from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to assist with the ongoing public health emergency (PHE) in Washington beginning August 1, 2026 related to wildfires. Shares information and resources for those impacted and responding to the wildfires, including CMS waivers, a disaster toolkit, dialysis care, medical equipment and supplies replacement, access to Medicare Part D medications, and health information privacy and accessibility resources.
Source: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Aug 10, 2026 - Notice of final rule from the Department of Homeland Security amending regulations regarding the 9-11 Response and Biometric Entry-Exit Fee for certain H-1B and L-1 petitions. Includes a summary of comments on the policy. The regulation is effective September 9, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Aug 10, 2026 - Notice from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) seeking comments on a new computer matching program between the FCC, the Universal Service Administrative Company, and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services to verify the eligibility of applicants and subscribers to Lifeline. This program is designed to facilitate and support access to affordable broadband services for low-income consumers and families. Comments are due by September 9, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Aug 10, 2026 - The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is seeking comments on an information collection titled "Extension to the Currently Approved 0930-0395 0930-0395 Generic Clearance for Grant Program Monitoring Activities." The proposed reports in this information collection are used to provide oversight across SAMHSA grant programs. Comments are due within 30 days of this notice.
Source: Federal Register
Aug 7, 2026 - Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) from the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) proposing to rescind and replace the Head Start Program Performance Standards. Among other things, the proposed revisions intend to reduce Federal regulation and duplication; empower states, local programs, and families with greater authority and flexibility; advance the health and well-being of children and communities; and reinforce evidence-based standards for health, nutrition, and physical activity. Comments are due by October 6, 2026.
Source: Federal Register