The following charts contain information about various federal and state advocacy opportunities.
- Federal Policy and Legislative Advocacy – Current Issues
- State Policy and Legislative Advocacy – Current Issues
- Federal/State Policy and Legislative Advocacy – Past Issues
Federal Policy and Legislative Advocacy – Current Issues
This chart includes policy and legislative opportunities at the federal level.
| Year Introduced | Issue | Type (Letter, Regulation Comments, Legislation) | Bill Number & Title | Description | Position Statements & Coalition and Triage Cancer Letter of Support | Status | Advocacy Opportunity | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Expansion of Medicaid | Bill | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/31/text | H.R.31 COVER Now Act - Cover Outstanding Vulnerable Expansion-eligible Residents Now Act | Under the program, local governments may provide coverage for individuals who are newly eligible for Medicaid under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (i.e., the Medicaid expansion population) for a maximum of 10 years, or until their respective states expand Medicaid. The bill provides a 100% federal matching rate for the first three years of program participation. | Support | Introduced by Representative Doggett (D-TX); referred to House Energy and Commerce Committee | ||||
| Proposal for new rule | Solicitation of Proposals for New and Modified Safe Harbors and Special Fraud | Proposes that HHS create a safe harbor to allow for assistance for non-medical expenses to be provided to individuals participating in clinical trials to increase diversity of participants. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ACS-CAN_-Proposed-Safe-Harbor_27Jan23Final.pdf | Letter sent through to HHS in response to a request for proposed policy changes. | |||||
| Curb Utilization Management Policies | Proposed Rule | https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/hhs-notice-benefit-and-payment-parameters-2024-proposed-rule | HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2024 Proposed Rule | Proposed rule from CMS fails to address copay accumulatoradjustment policies in this proposed rule. | Suggests additions to proposed rule | |||||
| Proposed Rule | https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2022/12/02/2022-26282/request-for-information-essential-health-benefits | HHS: Request for Information; Essential Health Benefits | In response to a request for information from HHS, Triage Cancer signed on with 49 other organizations to make suggestions on how the rules on Essential Health Benefits can be improved. | Proposed improvements to EBH rules | https://hivhep.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/EHB-Signon-Letter.pdf | Comment period closed on 1/31/2023 | ||||
| Eliminate Waiting Periods | Bill | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/549/text | HR 549 Metastatic Breast Cancer Access to Care Act | This legislation would provide immediate access to support and medical care for individuals with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) who already qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and are therefore eligible for Medicare. Under current law, these individuals must wait five months for SSDI and 24 months for Medicare benefits to take effect. This bill would waive both waiting periods, helping individuals with late-stage cancer get the benefits they are eligible to receive. | Support | Introduced by Representative Garbarino (R-NY); Referred to House Committee on Ways and Means | Contact your representative to ask them to support this legislation | https://www.commoncause.org/find-your-representative/ | ||
| Curb Utilization Management Policies | Federal Court Case | https://hivhep.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1.22-cv-2604_Amended-Compl_-11.18.22.pdf | DC District Court: No. 1:22-cv-2604: HIV and Hepatitis Policy Institute, et al. v. HHS | The Plaintiffs ask the court to tell HHS that they were wrong when they approved the use of copay accumulator programs and that the rule permitting them be stopped. | Support the Plaintiffs | https://hivhep.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Aimed-Alliance-amicus-brief.pdf | Filed 8/30/2022; Plaintiffs filed Motion for Summary Judgment on 2/2/2023; Defendants have until 3/2/2023 to respond | |||
| Curb Junk Plans | Bill | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/711?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22H.R.+711%22%5D%7D&s=1&r=2 | H.R. 711 Throw Away Junk Plans Act | To eliminate the exemption for junk plans from the ACA’s consumer protections | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/TC-Letter-of-Support-H.R.-711.pdf | Introduced by Representative Castor (D-Fl) | Contact your representative to ask them to support this legislation | https://www.commoncause.org/find-your-representative/ | |
| Curb Utilization Management Policies | Bill | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/830/text?s=1&r=2&q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22h.r.+830%22%5D%7D | H.R. 830 Help Ensure Lower Patient Copays Act (HELP Copays Act) | To prohibit the use of copay accumulator programs | Support | https://allcopayscount.org/resources/all-copays-count-coalition-supports-the-reintroduction-of-the-help-copays-act-h-r-830/ | Introduced by Representative Carter (R-GA) | Contact your representative to ask them to support this legislation | https://www.commoncause.org/find-your-representative/ | |
| Bill | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/773?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22HR+773%22%5D%7D&s=1&r=1 | H.R. 773 The Homelessness and Behavioral Health Care Coordination Act | The Homelessness and Behavioral Health Care Coordination Act would authorize a grant program within the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to help state and local governments, tribal entities, public housing agencies, and Continuums of Care better coordinate services for behavioral health, including substance use disorder, and homelessness. | Support | Introduced by Representative Dean (D-PA) | Contact your representative to ask them to support this legislation | https://www.commoncause.org/find-your-representative/ | |||
| Budget FY 2024 | Ask Congress to include funding for the Childhood Cancer STAR Act ($30M) the Childhood Cancer Data Initiative ($50M) | Support | Contact your legislators to ask them to support funding for these two initiatives. | https://advocacy.lls.org/a/227-appropriations-1?emci=e51f0e0f-61b8-ed11-a8e0-00224832e811&emdi=eb1f0e0f-61b8-ed11-a8e0-00224832e811&ceid=74169 | ||||||
| Insurance Coverage | Bill | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/485?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22hr+485%22%5D%7D&s=1&r=1 | H.R. 485 The Protecting Healthcare for All Patients Act | This bill will protect vulnerable Americans by banning the use of Quality-Adjusted Life Years (QALY) in all federal programs. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2023-0307-H.R.-485-QALY-Ban-Bill-Sign-on-Letter-FINAL.pdf | Introduced by Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA); referred to Ways and Means; referred to subcommitee on Health | Contact your representative to ask them to support this legislation | https://www.commoncause.org/find-your-representative/ | |
| Medicare | Request to CMS | Group request to CMS to solicit patient input and feedback when implementing rules and regulations related to the Inflation Reduction Act's changes to Medicare. | Support | https://tinyurl.com/mr3634su |
State Policy and Legislative Advocacy – Current Issues
This chart includes policy and legislative opportunities in various states.
| Year Introduced | State | Issue | Type (Letter, Regulation Comments, Legislation) | Bill Number & Title | Description | Position Statements & Coalition and Triage Cancer Letter of Support | Status | Advocacy Opportunity | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | New Mexico | Biomarker Testing | bill | https://www.nmlegis.gov/Sessions/23%20Regular/bills/house/HB0073.pdf | HB73 | Require that health plans provide coverage for biomarker testing | Support | Introduced 1/12/2023; Passed out of House Health and Human Services 1/27; Passed House Floor vote | Contact your State Representative and ask them to support this bill | https://www.nmlegis.gov/Members/Find_My_Legislator | |
| 2023 | New York | Biomarker Testing | bill | https://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?default_fld=&leg_video=&bn=S01196&term=2023&Summary=Y&Actions=Y&Committee%26nbspVotes=Y&Floor%26nbspVotes=Y&Memo=Y&Text=Y | S01196 | Require that health plans provide coverage for biomarker testing | Support | Introduced 1/10/2023; referred to insurance committee; will be heard in the House Consumer & Public Affairs committee on Thursday, 2/16 | Contact your State Representative and ask them to support this bill | Assembly Member Search | New York State Assembly | |
| 2023 | Washington | Biomarker Testing | Bill | https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5074&Year=2023&Initiative=false | SB 5074 (Companion Bill H 1450) | Require that health plans provide coverage for biomarker testing | Support | Introduced 1/9/2023; referred to Health and Long Term Care Committee; Committee Hearing 1/20/2023; passed out of committee; not scheduled for Appropriations, no additional movement expected | Contact your State Representative and ask them to support this bill | https://app.leg.wa.gov/DistrictFinder/ | |
| 2023 | Illinois | Paid Leave | Bill | https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/fulltext.asp?DocName=&SessionId=110&GA=102&DocTypeId=SB&DocNum=208&GAID=16&LegID=129513&SpecSess=&Session= | SB208 | Provide all workers in Illinois with up to 40 hours of paid leave per year for any reason | Support | Passed by both chambers on 1/10/2023; sent to Governor for signature | |||
| 2023 | Georgia | Biomarker Testing | Bill | https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/63669 | HB 85 | Require health benefit policy coverage for biomarker testing if supported by medical and scientific evidence | Support | Introduced 1/26/2023; Favorable Committee Report 2/9/2023; passed the vote House 2/15/2023; passed out of Senate Health and Human Services Committee on 3/7/2023 | Ask your representative to support this legislation | https://www.legis.ga.gov/find-my-legislator | |
| 2023 | Colorado | Biomarker Testing | Bill | https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb23-1110 | H23-1110 | Require health insurance coverage of Biomarker Testing | Support | Introduced 1/23/2023; Passed out of House Health & Insurance Commitee 2/21; in appropriations | Ask your representative to support this legislation | https://leg.colorado.gov/house-district-map | |
| 2023 | Oklahoma | Biomarker Testing | Bill | http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb513&Session=2300 | SB513 | Require health insurance coverage of Biomarker Testing | Support | Introduced 1/23/2023; passed out of House Consumer & Public Affairs committee; passed appropriations; floor vote expected in March | Ask your representative to support this legislation | http://www.oklegislature.gov/FindMyLegislature.aspx | |
| 2023 | Maryland | Biomarker Testing | Bill | Require health insurance coverage of Biomarker Testing | Support | ||||||
| 2023 | Illinois | Paid Famly Leave | Bill | https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/103/HB/10300HB1006.htm | HB1006 Paid Family Leave Act | Require employers to provide 6 weeks of paid leave to provide care for a new baby or adopted or fostered child or to provide care for a sick family member. | Support | Introduced 1/12/2023 | Ask your representative to support this legislation | https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/DistrictLocator/DistrictOfficialSearchByAddress.aspx | |
| 2023 | Connecticut | Biomarker Testing | Bill | https://cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&which_year=2023&bill_num=976 | SB 976 AN ACT CONCERNING HEALTH COVERAGE MANDATES FOR CERTAIN HEALTH CONDITIONS | Require Commercial Health Insurance plans to cover biomarker testing. | Support | Referred to Committee on 2/8/2023; Committee Hearing 2/14/2023 | Ask your representative to support this legislation | https://cga.ct.gov/asp/menu/cgafindleg.asp | |
| 2023 | Connecticut | Biomarker Testing | Bill | https://cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&which_year=2023&bill_num=6628 | HB 6288AN ACT CONCERNING MEDICAID COVERAGE OF BIOMARKER TESTING | Require Medicaid to cover Biomarker Testing | Support | Introduced 1/19/2023 | Ask your representative to support this legislation | https://cga.ct.gov/asp/menu/cgafindleg.asp | |
| 2023 | Kentucky | Biomarker Testing | Bill | https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/23rs/hb180.html | HB 180 AN ACT relating to coverage for biomarker testing. | Require Health Insurance coverage of Biomarker Testing | Support | Introduced 2/9/2023; passed out of committee 2/16; unanimously passed the House floor vote 2/22; now in the Senate | Ask your representative to support this legislation | https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/findyourlegislator/findyourlegislator.html | |
| 2023 | Florida | Biomarker Testing | Bill | https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/805 | HB 805: Health Insurance Coverage for Biomarker Testing | Require Health Insurance coverage of Biomarker Testing | Support | Introduced 2/14/2023 | Ask your representative to support this legislation | https://www.flsenate.gov/Senators/Find | |
| 2023 | Arkansas | Biomarker Testing | Bill | https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1121&ddBienniumSession=2023%2F2023R | HB 1121: Concerning Coverage For Biomarker Testing For Early Detection And Management For Cancer Diagnoses. | Require Health Insurance coverage of Biomarker Testing for cancer diagnoses | Support | Introduced 1/12/2023; in committee | Ask your representative to support this legislation | https://www.commoncause.org/find-your-representative/addr/ | |
| 2023 | Minnesota | Biomarker Testing | Bill | https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF1948&ssn=0&y=2023 | S1948/HF1978 | Require Health Insurance coverage of Biomarker testing | Support | Introduced 2/20/2023 | Ask your representative to support this legislation | https://www.leg.mn.gov/ | |
| 2023 | Nevada | Biomarker Testing | bill | https://www.leg.state.nv.us/App/NELIS/REL/82nd2023/Bill/9818/Overview | AB155 | Require Health Insurance coverage of Biomarker testing | Support | Introduced 2/13/2023; referred to commmitee on Health & Human Services | Ask your representative to support this legislation | https://www.leg.state.nv.us/whosmylegislator/ | |
| 2023 | Ohio | biomarker Testing | Bill | https://ohiohouse.gov/legislation/135/hb24 | HB 24: to require health benefit plan and Medicaid program coverage of biomarker testing | Require health insurance coverage of Biomarker testing | Support | Introduced 2/15/2023; referred to committee | Ask your representative to support this legislation | https://www.commoncause.org/find-your-representative/addr/ | |
| 2023 | Texas | Biomarker Testing | Bill | https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=88R&Bill=SB989 | SB 989: Relating to health benefit plan coverage for certain biomarker testing | Require health insurance coverage of Biomarker testing | Support | Filed 2/16/2023 | Ask your representative to support this legislation | https://www.commoncause.org/find-your-representative/addr/ | |
| 2023 | California | Insurance Coverage | Bill | https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240AB632 | AB 632 Health care coverage: prostate cancer screening | Would allow patients to receive prostate cancer screening without a deductible, copayment, or coinsurance for prostate cancer screening forthose at risk for prostate cancer. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Group-Letter-in-Support-of-AB-632.pdf | Introduced 2/9/2023; referred to committee on health | Ask your representative to support this legislation | https://www.commoncause.org/find-your-representative/addr/ |
| 2023 | California | Insurance Coverage | Budget Change Proposal | https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/Documents/Budget-Highlights/DHCS-FY-2023-24-GB-Highlights.pdf | 2023-24 Governor’s Budget Department of Health Care Services Highlights | The budget change would add funding for positions to support the implementation of the Cancer Care Equity Act, which was passed in 2022, and allows Medi-Cal patients with a complex cancer diagnosis the ability to request a referral to an NCI (National Cancer Institute) Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/SB-987-Budget-item-support-ltr3-5-23.pdf |
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Federal/State Policy and Legislative Advocacy – Past Issues
This chart includes past policy and legislative opportunities at the federal and state levels.
| Federal / State | Year Introduced | Issue | Type (Letter, Regulation Comments, Legislation) | Bill Number & Title | Description | Position Statements & Coalition and Triage Cancer Letter of Support | Status | Learn more | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal | 2020 | Additional Direction on Civil Rights Law and Emergency State Guidance During COVID-19 from HHS’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) | Letter | https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2020/03/28/ocr-issues-bulletin-on-civil-rights-laws-and-hipaa-flexibilities-that-apply-during-the-covid-19-emergency.html | Additional direction from Department of Health and Human Service’s (HHS’s) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) would make clear that state emergency triage guidance that would limit or restrict access to lifesaving care for certain patients with underlying conditions due to the COVID-19 pandemic violates federal antidiscrimination laws. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Emergency-Triage-Letter-to-OCR-5.20.20-Final.pdf | No additional guidance on civil rights and states' emergency response issued by the OCR. | https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/ocr-bulletin-3-28-20.pdf | |
| Federal | 2020 | Administrative Changes to HHS to Increase Patient Access During COVID-19 | Regulation | https://www.cms.gov/files/document/summary-covid-19-emergency-declaration-waivers.pdf | Joined the ACS CAN to urge HHS Secretary Alex Azar to ensure plan networks do not hinder access to Care, waive facility-specific pre-certification and prior authorization, provide considerations for home infusion services, allow Medicaid patients to recieve a 90-day supply of necessary medications, and clarify improvements to telehealth services. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Letter-to-HHS-Sec-Azar-on-Covid-Fixes-for-Cancer-Patients-FINAL.pdf | Updated CMS Blanket Waivers issued April 8, 2021 provide additional guidance and protections for patients and providers. | https://www.medicare.gov/what-medicare-covers/getting-prescriptions-in-disaster-or-emergency | |
| Federal | 2020 | Advancing Policies Supporting the Role of Oral Health in Fighting COVID-19 | Letter | https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/conditions/index.html | Proposed Legislation: Speaker Pelosi and Leaders McConnell, McCarthy, and Schumer to advancing policies promote oral health in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic would help prevent worstening long-standing disparities in oral health. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/OPENLetterSignedF-Medicaid-HEROS-Act.pdf | Action is still needed to address America's Oral Health Crisis. | https://www.oralhealth.network/home | |
| Federal | 2020 | Allowing Patients with Medicare Part D to use Drug Discount Cards through the Novel Coronavirus (COVID19) Pandemic | Regulation | https://www.medicare.gov/drug-coverage-part-d/what-medicare-part-d-drug-plans-cover/drug-plan-coverage-rules | Rescinding the ban on the use of copay cards in the Medicare Part D program through the Novel Coronavirus (COVID19) pandemic would facilitate access to and adherence with needed medicines. It would also improve beneficiaries’ overall ability to manage critical and pressing health-related and household expenses. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Patient-Group-Letter-to-OIG-on-Medicare-Part-D-Copay-Coupon-Assitance-FINAL-8.24.20.pdf | The ban was not rescinded through the Novel Coronavirus (COVID19) pandemic. | https://triagecancer.org/medicare-part-d | |
| Federal | 2020 | Biden-Harris Transition Team Prioritizing Health and Healthcare | Letter | https://www.whitehouse.gov/priorities/ | The Biden-Harris Transition Team taking action to end the COVID-19 pandemic, address racial injustices in healthcare, pursue affordable healthcare for all Americans, and lower health care costs will be key to turning the tide of the pandemic, restoring the economy, and saving lives. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Letter-from-320-organizations-to-urge-Biden-Harris-transition-team-to-prioritize-health-and-healthcare.pdf | The Biden-Harris administration's efforts to end the COVID-19 pandemic and address inequities in and access to healthcare are ongoing. However, they describe ending COVID-19, achieveing racial equity, and protecting American's access to healthcare as policy priorities. | https://familiesusa.org/resources/over-320-organizations-urge-biden-harris-transition-team-to-prioritize-health-and-health-care/ | |
| Federal | 2018 | Cancer Care Planning and Communications Act of 2018 | Bill | H.R.5160 - Cancer Care Planning and Communications Act of 2018 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/5160/text?format=txt | Proposed Legislation: The CCPC Act would establish a new Medicare service for cancer care planning. | Support | https://canceradvocacy.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/NCCS-CCPC-Fact-Sheet.pdf | This bill died in congress after being introduced on March 5, 2018. | https://triagecancer.org/tag/cancer-care-planning-and-communications-act |
| Federal | 2019 | Cancer Drug Parity Act | Bill | H.R. 1730/S. 741 - Cancer Drug Parity Act of 2019 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-bill/741/all-info | Proposed Legislation: The Cancer Drug Parity Act would reduce healthcare costs for cancer patients by requiring insurance companies to cover orally administered cancer drugs in the same way as intravenous (IV) chemotherapy. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Triage-Cancer-Letter-of-Support.pdf | The Cancer Drug Parity Act (H.R. 1730/S. 741) bill died after being referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. | https://triagecancer.org/cancer-drug-parity-act-support |
| Federal | 2019 | Cancer Drug Parity Act and Other Measures to Increase Access to Care and PPE during the Novel Coronavirus Pandemic | Bill | H.R.133 - Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/133 | Proposed Legislation: The Cancer Drug Parity Act, as well as other measures to increase access to care during the Novel Coronavirus Pandemic including increased funding for state Medicaid and the production of Personal Protective Equiptment (PPE), would ensure continuity of care for people with cancerand survivors. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/ACS-CAN-Cancer-Community-Letter-July-2020.pdf | The Cancer Drug Parity Act (H.R. 1730/S. 741) bill died after being referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. However, other recommendations were honored in subsequent pandemic relief bills. | https://triagecancer.org/does-the-latest-covid-bill-signed-by-the-president-help-you |
| Federal | 2021 | Changes to CMMI Part D Payment Modernization Models on Jan 18, 2019 | Regulation | https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/part-d-payment-modernization-model-calendar-year-cy-2022-fact-sheet | The Trump Administration's changes to CMMI Part D Payment Models would result in Part D plans in this model no longer having to cover “all or substantially all” drugs within five of the six protected classes (anticonvulsants, immunosuppressants, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and antineoplastics). | Oppose | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Six-Protected-Classes-Patient-and-Provider-Letter-Final.pdf | The Biden Administration released an updated Request for Applications (RFA) for the Part D Payment Modernization (PDM) Model for CY 2022 eliminating changes proposed during the previous administration. | https://innovation.cms.gov/innovation-models/part-d-payment-modernization-model | |
| Federal | 2019 | Clinical Treatment Act | Bill | H.R.913/S.4742 - The Clinical Treatment Act | https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/913 | Proposed Legislation: This bill would ensure states cover routine care costs of participation in an approved clinical trial for Medicaid enrollees with life-threatening conditions. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/HR-913-Community-Support-Letter.pdf | The Clinical Treatment Act (H.R.913/S.4742) bill died after being introduced to the House. | https://triagecancer.org/clinical-treatment-act-advocacy |
| Federal | 2019 | Coverage for Germline and Somatic Tumor NGS-based testing for Early-Stage Cancer Patients with Medicare | Regulation | https://www.cms.gov/medicare-coverage-database/details/nca-decision-memo.aspx?NCAId=296 | 63 organizations expressed serious concerns that the overly broad interpretation of national coverage determination for next generation sequencing will restrict patient access to medically necessary and relevant clinical tests and adversely impact cancer care and outcomes. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Group_Stakeholder_Letter_NGSNCD-FINAL-1-31-2019.pdf | A Jan. 27, 2020 decision memo from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that Medicare will cover next-generation sequencing (NGS) tests for qualified patients with any stage of female breast or ovarian cancer to determine if they have hereditary cancer-associated mutations. | https://www.cms.gov/medicare-coverage-database/details/ncd-details.aspx?NCDId=372 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Designating May as "National Cancer Research Month" | Bill | S.Res.253 - A resolution supporting the designation of May 2021 as "National Cancer Research Month" | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-resolution/253/text | Recognizing May as National Cancer Research Month celebrates and encourages our nation's continued investment in cancer research, which is vital to those diagnosed and their loved ones. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/NCRM-Resolution-Support-Letter | Agreed to in Senate on 06/07/2021 | https://www.aacr.org/patients-caregivers/awareness-months/national-cancer-research-month/ |
| Federal | 2019 | Emergency Funding For Critical Nonprofits During COVID-19 | Bill | H.R.133 - Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/133 | Legislation: Providing emergency funding would assure the stalled research supported by non-profit organizations, voluntary health associations, science societies, and foundations, can resume once researchers return to their labs. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Sign-on-letter-research-protections-for-non-profits-FINAL-5620.pdf | Additional funding provided in the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021’’ enacted December 21, 2020. | https://triagecancer.org/does-the-latest-covid-bill-signed-by-the-president-help-you |
| Federal | 2021 | Enforcing the CDC Moratorium on Evictions During COVID-19 | Regulation | https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/covid-eviction-declaration.html | CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky determined that the evictioning tenants could be detrimental to public health control measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Moratorium-letter-to-CFPBFTC-03.03.21-w-sign_ons.pdf | The CDC called for enforcement and extended moratorium until June 30, 2021. | https://triagecancer.org/does-the-latest-covid-bill-signed-by-the-president-help-you | |
| Federal | 2019 | Equitable Access to Testing and Treatment for COVID-19 | Bill | H.R.133 - Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/133 | Legislation: Providing equitable access to testing and treatment for COVID-19; equip states and localities with sufficient financial support to combat the crisis; provide protection and support to the health care workforce and others on the frontlines of the pandemic; assure access and capacity in the health system; and protect against high and unexpected health care costs would help protect American's overall well-being. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/FUSA-COVID-response-recs-sign-on-4.22.20-final.pdf | Much of these requests were honored in additional action taken to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. | https://triagecancer.org/does-the-latest-covid-bill-signed-by-the-president-help-you |
| Federal | 2019 | Funding for the Kidney CancerResearch Program for Fiscal Year 2021 | Bill | H.R.133 - Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/133 | This bill requires the Department of Defense to provide $50 million in research funding to develop innovative treatment options for kidney and renal pelvic cancer. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/12.08.2020-CR-Jt.-Approp-Ltr-KCRP-Request-for-FY-21.pdf | In FY21 KCRP received an additional appropriation of $50M to conduct kidney cancer research. | https://cdmrp.army.mil/kcrp/default |
| Federal | 2019 | Funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in FY 2020 | Letter | https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/H1865PLT_44.PDF | Legislation: One Voice Against Cancer (OVAC), a coalition of public interest groups representing millions of cancer researchers, physicians and nurses, patients, survivors and their families, urges congress to raise the FY 2020 budget caps for cancer research, treatment, prevention and detection. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/OVAC-Budget-Cap-Letter-February-2019.pdf | NIH received $41.68 billion in funding in FY 2020, an increase of $2.6 billion from FY 2019. | https://www.nia.nih.gov/research/blog/2018/10/we-have-budget-fy-2019#:~:text=The%20total%20NIH%20appropriation%20for,Alzheimer's%20and%20related%20dementias%20research. | |
| Federal | 2019 | Funding Increases for Cancer Research in FY 2021 | Bill | H.R.133 - Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/133 | Funding for (NIH) and (NCI) in FY2021 would be used to ensure that cancer research and clinical trials impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic can be restarted when safe to do so and for research related to COVID-19. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/FY2021_OVAC-Letter-Requesting-Funding-increases-for-cancer-research-and-prevention-11.24.2020.pdf | FY 2021 included a $1.25 billion budget increase for NIH, and a nearly $120 million increase for the NCI. | https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/what-we-do/nih-almanac/national-cancer-institute-nci |
| Federal | 2019 | Funding the DoD's Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program and its PRCRP in FY 2021 | Bill | H.R.133 - Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/133 | Funding for the Department of Defense’s (DoD) Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program and its Peer-Reviewed Cancer Research Program (PRCRP) in Fiscal Year 2021 (FY 2021) advances high-impact research for cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and survivorship to support service members, their families, and the American public at-large. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/ACS-CAN-FY-2021-CDMRP-letter-FINAL.pdf | Congress appropriated $115,000,000 for PRCRP in FY 2021. | https://cdmrp.army.mil/prcrp/default |
| State | 2021 | Health Insurance Coverage for Genetic Testing | Bill | LA SB 84 | http://www.legis.la.gov/Legis/BillInfo.aspx?i=240103 | This act facilitates cancer patients' access to genetic testing by requiring health plans to provide coverage for these services. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/LA-SB-84-Letter-of-Support | Effective date 1/1/2022 | |
| Federal | 2019 | Henrietta Lacks Enhancing Cancer Research Act of 2019 | Bill | H.R.1966/S. 946 - The Henrietta Lacks Enhancing Cancer Research Act of 2019 | https://www.congress.gov/116/plaws/publ291/PLAW-116publ291.pdf | Legislation: By analyzing the federal policies that directly impact participation rates in cancer clinical trials and then recommending potential policy changes across federal agencies, this act works to reduce barriers that keep patients from enrolling in clinical trials. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/S.-946-Endorsement-Letter-FINAL.pdf | This act became a public law on January 5, 2021. | https://www.congress.gov/116/plaws/publ291/PLAW-116publ291.pdf |
| Federal | 2021 | Increasing Access and Affordability of Health Care in American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 | Bill | H.R.1319 - American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1319/text | Provisions in the American Rescue plan work to improve health coverage affordability in the private market, build on the foundation of provisions in the existing health law and ensure access to vaccines, and focus on the needs of communities of color. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/COVID-19ReliefSupportLtr_021821_FINAL_830PM.pdf | Enacted March 11, 2021 | https://triagecancer.org/news-you-need-about-tax-time-more |
| Federal | 2019 | Medical Expense Savings Act | Bill | H.R.2073/S.110- Medical Expense Savings Act | https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-bill/110 | Proposed Legislation: This act would make permanent the 7.5 percent threshold for the medical expense deduction. Tax relief in this area can provide needed resources, especially important to middle income seniors with high medical costs. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/FINAL_Med_Ex_Coalition_12.14.2020.pdf | The Medical Expense Savings Act (H.R.2073/S.110) died after being referred to the Committee on Finance. | https://www.congress.gov/116/bills/s110/BILLS-116s110is.pdf |
| Federal | 2019 | Medicare National Coverage Determinations (NCD) | Regulation | https://www.cms.gov/medicare-coverage-database/details/nca-details.aspx?NCAId=296&bc=AIAAAAAACAAAAAAA& | Legislation: The bill will change the Medicare statutes to allow for germline testing of affected and unaffected carriers who meet personal and/or family history criteria (as defined by NCCN). It would also cover evidence-based increased screening and risk-reducing surgeries. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/NGS-NCD-Comments_90.2_May2019-FINAL.pdf | The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) covers Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) as a diagnostic laboratory test when performed in a CLIA-certified laboratory and ordered by a treating physician for qualified patients. | https://www.facingourrisk.org/privacy-policy-legal/advocacy/medicare-finalizes-genetic-testing-policy | |
| State | 2020 | Paid Sick Leave for New Yorkers | Bill | New York Assembly Bill A9506B | https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2019/a9506 | Building on protections created during the COVID-19 pandemic, this bill guarantees most New York residents one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked. | Support | Signed by the Governor 04/03/2021, effective 01/01/2021 | https://www.ny.gov/programs/new-york-paid-sick-leave | |
| Federal | 2021 | Requesting Prioritization of Cancer Patients for COVID-19 Vaccinations | Regulation | https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/underlying-conditions.html | Patients with active cancer and survivors of cancer must be provided priority access to a lifesaving COVID-19 vaccine. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/SignOnLetter-re-COVID-19-Vaccine-Prioritization-for-Cancer-Patients_FINAL.pdf | The CDC prioritized cancer patients in groups 4 and 6 for COVID-19 vaccination. | https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/specific-groups.html | |
| Federal | 2020 | Transparency in Denials of Coverage | Regulation | 85 FR 72158 | https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2020/11/12/2020-24591/transparency-in-coverage | A regulation issued by the Trump Administration requires all non-grandfathered plans, including employer-sponsored plans, to report billed charges and negotiated allowed amounts for covered medical care, starting in 2023. But, Triage Cancer recommends that Health and Human Services (HHS) audit insurers' claim denials, and investigate their efforts to add providers to their networks. | Support | Effective Date: 01/11/2021 | https://www.regulations.gov/document/IRS-2020-0044-0001 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Access to Screening and Treatment for Prostate Cancer Among Underserved and Minority Groups | Bill | S.Con.Res.5 - A concurrent resolution setting forth the congressional budget... | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-concurrent-resolution/5/text | Providing funding to address inequity and access to screening and treatment for prostate cancer in FY 2022 would further lower mortality rates and address concerning increases in late-stage prostate cancer disease. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/FoPCCC-Transition-Letter-FINAL.pdf | Passed in House on 02/05/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Restore robust funding to Consumer Assistance Program Funding for FY22 | Bill | S.Con.Res.5 - A concurrent resolution setting forth the congressional budget... | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-concurrent-resolution/5/text | Consumer Assistance Programs provide important resources for educating the public about their health insurance options and assist people navigating transitions in health insurance coverage due to changes in employment status, evolving family configurations, age, and other factors. Furthermore, CAPs can play an important role in ensuring that consumers understand their rights and receive protections against surprise medical bills that Congress intended. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/042621-CAP-Grant-Support-Letter-w-Logos-FINAL.pdf | Passed in House on 2/5/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Allocating $10 Billion in Funding for NIH in FY22 | Bill | S.Con.Res.5 - A concurrent resolution setting forth the congressional budget... | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-concurrent-resolution/5/text | Providing the National Institutes of Health (NIH) with at least $10 billion would help mitigate delays in cancer research caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Ad-Hoc-Group-Letter-Urging-Swift-Passage-of-FY22-Appropriations_Final.pdf | Passed 2/5/2021 with NIH Budget Increase of $2B | |
| Federal | 2021 | Comments in Response to Request for Information Regarding Reporting on PharmacyBenefits and Prescription Drug Costs | Comments | https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/06/23/2021-13138/request-for-information-regarding-reporting-on-pharmacy-benefits-and-prescription-drug-costs | Our recommendations to Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Xavier Becerra, include: requiring health plans to report on the treatment and accounting of copay assistance, collecting information on rebates and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), and carefully considering the impact of costs associated with prescription drugs on patients, their families, and society as a whole. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Letter-to-HHS-On-Standard-Plan-Options | Secretary Becerra responded to our letter on June 28th, 2021. | ||
| Federal | 2021 | Expanding Medicare | Bill | S.Con.Res.14 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-concurrent-resolution/14 | The Senate's proposed budget would lower patient spending and increase patient's access to care by expanding Medicare. This includes adding dental, vision, and hearing coverage, as well as expanding home and community-based services. This bill would also alleviate the financial crisis caused by COVID-19 by making increased child tax credit and cost-share subsidies from the American Rescue Plan permanent. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Senate-Budget-Resolution-Support | Agreed in House on 08/24/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Improving Patient Drug Affordability through Standardized Benefit Plans | Regulation | CMS-9906-P | https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/07/01/2021-13993/patient-protection-and-affordable-care-act-updating-payment-parameters-section-1332-waiver | We support the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the Department of the Treasury's proposed rule to offer standardized options for qualified health plans beginning in 2023, assisting patients better afford the prescription drugs and health services. We also believe that copay assistance should count towards their deductible and out-of-pocket maximum. We urge HHS to amend the Notice of Payment Parameters Rule for 2022 to prohibit the practice of not allowing such copay assistance to count by insurers. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Letter-Standardized-Benefit-Plans | Final Rule Published 9/27/2021; Effective 11/26/2021 | https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/09/27/2021-20509/patient-protection-and-affordable-care-act-updating-payment-parameters-section-1332-waiver |
| State- CA | 2021 | Health Insurance Coverage for Biomarker Testing | Bill | SB 535 | https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB535 | By requiring California health care plans to cover biomarker testing, this bill facilitates patient access to testing and reduces associated costs. This legislation will further protect patients’ access to care by prohibiting plans from requiring preauthorization for these services, eliminating pre-authorization for biomarker testing for patients with advanced or metastatic cancers. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/CA-SB-535-Letter-of-Support | Passed both chambers, signed into law on 10/6/2021 | https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB535 |
| State- CA | 2021 | Cancer Medication Recycling Act | Bill | SB-310 - The Cancer Medication Recycling Act | https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB310 | This legislation would facilitate patient access to oral cancer medications by creating an avenue for providers to donate unused medications to patients in need, increasing the likelihood that patients will correctly administer these life-saving medications. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/CA-SB-310-Letter-of-Support | Signed into law on 10/5/2021 | https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB310 |
| State- CA | 2021 | Health Insurance Coverage for Colorectal Cancer Testing | Bill | AB 342 | https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220AB342 | This legislation would facilitate patient access to colorectal cancer (CRC) testing by requiring insurance companies and health plans to provide coverage for follow-up tests without cost-sharing, reducing out-of-pocket medical costs and increasingly the likelihood that patients will proactively undergo follow up testing, rather than decline crucial testing due to costs. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/CA-AB-342-Letter-of-Support | Signed into law on 10/1/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Restore robust funding to Consumer Assistance Program Funding for FY22 | Bill | S.Con.Res.5 - A concurrent resolution setting forth the congressional budget... | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-concurrent-resolution/5/text | Consumer Assistance Programs provide important resources for educating the public about their health insurance options and assist people navigating transitions in health insurance coverage due to changes in employment status, evolving family configurations, age, and other factors. Furthermore, CAPs can play an important role in ensuring that consumers understand their rights and receive protections against surprise medical bills that Congress intended. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/042621-CAP-Grant-Support-Letter-w-Logos-FINAL.pdf | Passed in House on 2/5/2021 | |
| Federal | 2022 | Reduce the costs of drugs on Part D Medicare and extend tax credits and subsidies for Marketplace plans through 2025 | Bill | Inflation Reduction Act | Support | Signed into law on 08/16/2022 | https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/08/19/fact-sheet-the-inflation-reduction-act-supports-workers-and-families/#:~:text=The%20Inflation%20Reduction%20Act%20will%20protect%20Medicare%20recipients%20from%20catastrophic,for%20the%20first%20time%20ever. | |||
| California | 2022 | Access to Cancer Treatment for Medi-Cal beneficiaries | Bill | SB 987- Cancer Care Equity Act | https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB987 | The California Cancer Care Equity Act would ensure Medi-Cal beneficiaries who receive a complex cancer diagnosis have the choice to seek treatment at a comprehensive cancer center, increasing the number of Californians able to benefit from emerging therapies, clinical trials and appropriate cancer treatment specialized for particular types of cancer. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SB-987-Cancer-Coalition-Support.pdf | Signed in to law on 9/27/2022 | https://triagecancer.org/SB987FactSheet |
| California | 2022 | Biomarker Testing | Bill | SB 912 | Senate Bill 912 will require state-regulated plans, including Medi-Cal, to cover comprehensive biomarker testing when supported by medical and scientific evidence, including nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines. | Support | https://triaghttps://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/TC-Support-for-SB912.pdf | Vetoed by Governor on 9/29/2022 | https://www.fightcancer.org/increasing-access-biomarker-testing-sb912-lim%C3%B3n | |
| Federal | 2022 | Renewal of the Prescription Drug User Fee Act | Reauthorization needed at the end of the FY | Included within: H.R.7667 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/7667 | Equitable access to clinical trials and diverse participation requires deliberate planning to achieve. FDA has recently taken steps to encourage sponsors to develop diversity action plans through the release of draft guidance, but such plans are currently optional. Several provisions in the House-passed version of PDUFA would make such plans mandatory, and we urge Congress to include these diversity planning requirements in final PDUFA legislation. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/PDUFAConferenceCommunitySupportLetter2022 | 5 year reauthorization included in temporary budget bill passed on 9/30/2022 | |
| New Jersey | 2021 | State Guidelines for Step Therapy Protocols | Bill | S3051/A4815 Establishes certain guidelines for health insurance carriers concerning step therapy protocols. | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2020/A4815 | This act would ensure patient access to appropriate care by requiring health insurance carriers to base step therapy protocols on peer-reviewed data, exempting patients from step therapy when protocols would not be in the best interest of the patient, and establishing patients' right to a fair process for requesting exemptions. | Support | Passed by House, died in Senate Commerce Committee | ||
| Ohio | 2021 | Enact Vaccine Choice and Anti-Discrimination Act | Bill | HB 248-11 Enact Vaccine Choice and Anti-Discrimination Act | https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/legislation-summary?id=GA134-HB-248 | The legislature has heard that this bill’s purpose is to prevent the COVID-19 vaccine from becoming mandatory, but HB 248-11 applies to ALL immunizations, including childhood vaccines. If passed, this legislation has the potential to reverse decades of immunity from life-threatening, but vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, mumps, hepatitis, meningitis and polio. | Oppose | https://triagecancer.org/Vaccine-Coalition-Letter_6.14 | Died in the House Health Committee | |
| North Carolina | 2021 | Medicaid Expasion | Bill | H149 Will expand access to eligible adults up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level | https://lrs.sog.unc.edu/bill-summaries-lookup/H/149/2021/H149 | This bill would allow adults who do not qualify under another program to enroll in Medicaid if their income is below 138% of poverty. NC expects that about 600,000 low income individuals would become eligible under expansion criteria. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Triage-Cancer-Support-for-HB-149.pdf | Passed the Senate (6/2/2022), Returned to House, no further action taken | |
| New York | 2022 | Biomarker Testing | Bill | A09149 | https://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?default_fld=&leg_video=&bn=A09149&term=2021&Summary=Y | Assembly Bill A09149 will require increased coverage of Biomarker Testing for those on both public and private health insurance plans. Despite the clear benefits of biomarker testing, many insurance plans do not cover evidence-based biomarker testing for all patients who need it. Improving coverage for and access to biomarker testing across insurance types is key to reducing health disparities. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/NCOIL-biomarker-coalition-letter_FINAL.pdf | Died in insurance committee | |
| Pennsylvania | 2022 | The MRI Bill | Bill | S1225 | https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/BillInfo.cfm?syear=2021&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=1225 | This will clarify that the MRI/Ultrasound coverage extends to women with any of the following risk factors, and without the application of any deductible, copayment or coinsurance provisions contained in the policy or plan:personal history of atypical breast histologies;personal history or family history of breast cancer;genetic predisposition for breast cancer;prior therapeutic thoracic radiation therapy;extremely dense or heterogeneously dense breast tissue based on breast composition categories of the Breast Imaging and Reporting Data System established by the American College of Radiology. | Support | Passed by the Senate, referred to the House Insurance committee, no further action taken | ||
| Minnesota | 2022 | Biomarker Testing | bill | HF4899/SF4610 | https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF4899&ssn=0&y=2022 | Health plans required to provide coverage for biomarker testing. | Support | No action taken | ||
| Federal | 2021 | Access to Breast Cancer Diagnosis (ABCD) Act | Bill | S.1067/H.R.5769 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1067. | This bill prohibits private health insurance plans from imposing higher cost-sharing requirements on breast cancer diagnostic examinations than initial breast cancer screening examinations. Diagnostic examinations are generally required after an initial screening detects an abnormality and typically require additional mammogram images (e.g., x-rays). | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Letters-of-Support-for-ABCD-Combined.pdf | Introduced in Senate 4/12/2021; Introduced in House 10/28/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Access to Screening and Treatment for Prostate Cancer Among Underserved and Minority Groups | Bill | S.Con.Res.5 - A concurrent resolution setting forth the congressional budget... | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-concurrent-resolution/5/text | Providing funding to address inequity and access to screening and treatment for prostate cancer in FY 2022 would further lower mortality rates and address concerning increases in late-stage prostate cancer disease. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/FoPCCC-Transition-Letter-FINAL.pdf | ||
| Federal | 2021 | Better Care Better Jobs Act | Bill | H.R.4131/S.2210 - Better Care Better Jobs Act | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2210?r=97&s=6 | Investing $400 billion in Medicaid home- and community-based services (HCBS) would make states eligible for HCBS planning grants, as well as permanent enhanced federal Medicaid match funding to expand and strengthen HCBS access and workforce. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Better-Care-Better-Jobs-Act | Introduced in both House and Senate 06/24/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Cancer Care Planning and Communications Act | Bill | H.R.4414 -The Cancer Care Planning and Communications Act | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/4414?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22H.R.+4414%22%5D%7D&s=1&r=1 | This legislation would facilitate cancer patients’ access to comprehensive cancer care plans by allowing doctors to bill Medicare for their time crafting these plans, improving patients’ health literacy and survivorship outcomes. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/The-Cancer-Care-Planning-and-Communications-Act-Letter | Introduced to House on 07/13/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Cigna's Letters to Patients and Providers on Cosentyx | Letter | https://www.cigna.com/employers-brokers/insights/informed-on-reform/wellness-programs-and-incentives | Cigna's recent Cosentyx initiative coerces a non-medical switch in medication that may harm those suffering from autoimmune diseases and other chronic conditions. | Oppose | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Cigna-Sign-on-Letter-FINAL4.162.pdf | Cigna continues to incentivize patients to switch. | Contact Cigna to ask Chief Clinical Officer Steve Miller to rescind this incentive. | |
| Federal | 2021 | CONNECT for Health Act of 2021 | Bill | S.1512/H.R. 2903 - CONNECT for Health Act of 2021 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1512 | This legislation facilitates access to telehealth services for Medicare beneficiaries by removing barriers to coverage, including geographic requirements which currently restrict access for those in rural areas. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/CONNECT-Act-of-2021 | Introduced in House 4/28/2021; Introduced in Senate 04/29/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Cover Outstanding Vulnerable Expansion-Eligible Residents Now Act | Bill | H.R.3961 - COVER Now Act | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3961?s=1&r=3 | This act would allow the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to work directly with individual counties and cities to expand Medicaid coverage in their region, even if their State has declined to accept federal resources for Medicaid expansion. | Support | Introduced in House 06/17/2021 | ||
| Federal | 2021 | Credit for Caring Act | Bill | S.1670/H.R. 3321 - Credit for Caring Act of 2021 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1670?s=1&r=9 | This bill reduces costs for caregivers by creating a tax credit of up to $5,000 for 30% of the cost of long-term care expenses exceeding $2,000 in a taxable year. Eligible caregivers must earn more than $7,500 a year and pay for long-term care for their spouse or dependent relative. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Credit-For-Caring-Letter | Introduced in Senate 05/18/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | DIVERSE Trials Act | Bill | S.2706/H.R.5030 - DIVERSE Trials Act | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2706 | To address health inequities by increasing racially diverse participation in clinical trials, this act allows sponsors of trials to allieviate costs for patients by reimbursing patients for non-medical costs associated with their trial participation, such as travel, parking, food, or lodging. This legislation also allows trial sponsors to provide free access to technologies associated with the trial. Plus, it creates a program for awarding grants to organizations providing community support for clinical trial enrollment. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/DIVERSE-Trials-Act-Letters | Introduced in Senate on 08/10/2021; Introduced in House on 08/13/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Excellus BlueCross BlueShield's Decision on Prior Authorization for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Therapy | Letter | https://provider.excellusbcbs.com/authorizations/medical | This change effectively excludes cemiplimab from coverage, leaving patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) without access to it. We recommend that Excellus amend its prior authorization policy to remove the step therapy requirements for patients with advanced NSCLC whose tumors have high PD-L1 expression. | Oppose | https://triagecancer.org/Excellus-BCBS-Letter | Ask Excellus to remove step therapy for advanced NSCLC patients | ||
| Federal | 2021 | Family and Medical Insurance Leave Act (FAMILY Act) | Bill | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/804?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22FAMILY+delauro%22%5D%7D&r=4&s=5 | This bill would alleviate the financial burden associated with emergency medical care by entitling employees to family and medical leave insurance (FMLI), providing two thirds of their regular pay for 60 days. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/facts-paid-family-and-medical-leave | Introduced in House 02/04/2021 | ||
| Federal | 2021 | Improving Access to Mental Health Act of 2021 | Bill | H.R.2035 - Improving Access to Mental Health Act of 2021 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/2035/actions?r=6&s=1 | This legislation will facilitate patient access to mental health services by increasing Medicare reimbursement rates for clinical social workers, access to mental health services for residents of skilled nursing facilities, and supports for beneficiaries managing emotional and social effects of medical conditions. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Improving-Access-to-Mental-Health-Act-of-2021-Letters | Introduced in House 03/18/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act of 2021 | Bill | H.R.3173/S.3018 - Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act of 2021 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3173?s=1&r=5 | This act streamlines the process for prior authorizations for Medicare Advantage (MA) plans by establishing an electronic prior authorization (ePA) program. | Support | https://triagecancer.org//The-Improving-Seniors-Timely-Access-to-Care-Act-of-2021-Letter | Passed out of House Ways and Means Committee on 7/27/2022, in the Energy and Commerce Committee Health Subcommittee; Introduced in Senate 10/20/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Lowering Medicare Premiums and Prescription DrugCosts Act | Bill | S.1844/H.R.5099 - Lowering Medicare Premiums and Prescription DrugCosts Act | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1844/text?r=4&s=1 | This act helps reduce barriers to care by expanding and streamlining financialassistance for Medicare Part A, Part B and Part D beneficiaries. | Support | https://www.aging.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Lowering%20Medicare%20Premiums%20and%20Prescription%20Drug%20Costs%20Act%20-%20One%20Pager.pdf?eType=EmailBlastContent&eId=274324d7-62ef-43ba-a354-20b529cb91dc | Introduced in Senate 05/26/2021; Introduced in House on 8/24/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Lymphedema Treatment Act | Bill | S.1315/H.R. 3630 - Lymphedema Treatment Act | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1315/text?r=6&s=1 | This act provides Medicare coverage for certain lymphedema compression treatment items, reducing associated costs to facilitate patients' access to necessary supplies. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Lymphedema-Treatment-Act | Included in the Omnibus Bill in Decemer 2022, Effective 1/1/2024 | https://lymphedematreatmentact.org/ |
| Federal | 2021 | Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act of 2021 | Bill | H.R.1946 - Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act of 2021 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1946/all-info?r=1&s=1HR | This act would provide Medicare coverage for multi-cancer early detection screening tests, improving patient access and reducing costs. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/MCED-Support-March-2021-and-May-2022.pdf | Introduced in House on 03/16/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Metastatic Breast Cancer Access to Care Act | Bill | H.R.3183/S.1312 - Metastatic Breast Cancer Access to Care Act | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1312/actions | This legislation will facilitate the timely delivery of patients' financial help and medical care by eliminating the five-month waiting period for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and 24-month waiting period to access Medicare coverage for individuals with metastatic breast cancer. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Metastatic-Breast-Cancer-Letters.pdf | Introduced in Senate 04/22/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Patient-Centered Drug Pricing Policies for Autoimmune Patients | Bill | H.R. 3 - Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22H.R.+3+Elijah+E.+Cummings+Lower+Drug+Costs+Now+Act%22%5D%7D&r=1&s=1 | H.R. 3 would use other countries' reference price methodology to set drug prices to a maximum fair price (MFP). These countries use a Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALY) metric, which would discriminate against seniors and disabilities, resulting in the rationing of their care. Instead, we recommend protecting co-pay assistance, instituting federal cost-sharing caps, and mandating transparency for Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBM) operations to lower drug prices for patients. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Patient-Centered-Drug-Pricing-Letters | Introduced in House 04/22/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Protecting Seniors Through Immunization Act of 2021 | Bill | S. 912/H.R. 1978 - Protecting Seniors Through Immunization Act | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/912/text | This act will help strengthen vaccine uptake by improving education and equitable access to recommended vaccines for Medicare beneficiaries. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/AVAC-Protecting-Seniors-Support | Introduced in the House 3/17/2021; Introduced in Senate 03/23/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act of 2021 & Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act of 2022 | Bill | H.R.4110 - Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act of 2021; S.3656 Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act of 2022 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/4110/all-info | This act would facilitate patient access to medically-appropriate genetic testing for cancer risk and other risk reducing interventions by providing Medicare coverage for these services. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Support-Letters-for-Reducing-Hereditary-Cancer-Act-Combined.pdf | Introduced in House 06/23/2021; Introduced in Senate 2/16/2022 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Safe Step Act | Bill | S.464/H.R.2163 - Safe Step Act | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/464?overview=closed | This legislation would require employer-sponsored health insurance plans to create clear step-therapy exception protocols, laying out steps for getting medications approved without step therapy. If the first drug patients must take before "stepping-up" to their preferred drug a) would not be effective, b) is expected to be ineffective and delaying treatment would cause irreversible consequences, c) would cause an allergic reaction, b) would prevent the patient from completing daily activities, or e) would disrupt an already-stable drug regimen, the request must be approved. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Safe-Step-Act-Letters | Introduced in Senate on 02/25/2021; Introduced in House, 03/23/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Seniors Prescription Drug Relief Act | Bill | S. 2327- Seniors Prescription Drug Relief Act | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2327?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22S.+2327+%28IS%29+-+Seniors+Prescription+Drug+Relief+Act%22%5D%7D&s=1&r=1 | The Seniors Prescription Drug Relief Act alleviates costs for Medicare Part D beneficiaries by capping out-of-pocket costs at $3,100, allowing patients to pay high prescription drug costs through monthly payment plans, and reducing prescription drug co-insurance from 25 to 20 percent during the “doughnut hole” period. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Seniors-Prescription-Drug-Relief-Act-Letter-of-Support | Introduced in Senate on 07/13/2021; many of the provisions of this law were incorporated into the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 and signed into law on 08/16/2022 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Supplementary Security Income (SSI) Restoration Act of 2021 | Bill | H.R.3824/S.2065 - The Supplementary Security Income (SSI) Restoration Act of 2021 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2065 | The SSI Restoration Act updates regulations for the Supplemental Security Income program to increase benefits available to low-income Americans with disabilities and older Americans. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/SSI-Restoration-Letter-of-Support | Introduced in Senate 06/11/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | VALID Act of 2021 | Bill | H.R. 4128/S. 2209 VALID Act of 2021 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2209?overview=closed | This act would create a regulation specific to vitro clinical tests (IVCTs), separate from the regulatory framework for other medical devices. IVCTs would be subject to a premarket review process, notably including a Technology Certification Program. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/VALID-Act-Letters-of-Support-Combined.pdf | Introduced in Senate 6/24/2021 | |
| Federal | 2021 | Paid Family Medical Leave | Bill | S. CON. RES. 14 | https://www.congress.gov/117/bills/sconres14/BILLS-117sconres14es.pdf | Paid Family and Medical Leave provisions included in the FY 2022 Budget Reconciliation Proposal to institute a comprehensive, universal, paid family and medical leave plan for workers, including caregivers of older adults and people with disabilities. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/paidleave-10-29 | Paid Family Medical Leave was not included in the Budget for FY22 | |
| Federal | 2022 | Increase Funding for NIH in FY23 to $49 Billion | Forthcoming Budget Resolution FY23 | Increasing funding for the National Institutes of Health will help make progress to address health challenges, including COVID-19. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/FY-2023-Ad-Hoc-Group-Recommendation_5.10.22_Final.pdf | ||||
| Federal | 2022 | Provide robust funding to Consumer Assistance Program Funding for FY23 | Forthcoming Budget Resolution FY23 | Consumer Assistance Programs provide important resources for educating the public about their health insurance options and assist people navigating transitions in health insurance coverage due to changes in employment status, evolving family configurations, age, and other factors. Furthermore, CAPs can play an important role in ensuring that consumers understand their rights and receive protections against surprise medical bills that Congress intended. | Support | |||||
| Federal | 2022 | Response to Public Comment Period Requesting Information Regarding Reporting on PharmacyBenefits and Prescription Drug Costs | FTC Request for Information | https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2022/04/federal-trade-commission-extends-public-comment-period-request-information-impact-pharmacy-benefit | PBMs play a large part in how patients access and afford their prescription medications. We call on the FTC to use all the power within its purview to help alleviate these harmful policies and practices that make access to prescription drugs out of reach for patients and impact the health of our nation. We support increased regulation of the PBMs. | Support | https://hivhep.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/FTC-Public-Comments-on-PBM-Practices-5.24.22-1.pdf | Period for Public Comments to FTC ended 5/25/2022 | ||
| Federal | 2022 | Restore robust funding to Consumer Assistance Program Funding for FY23 | Forthcoming Budget Resolution FY23 | Consumer Assistance Programs provide important resources for educating the public about their health insurance options and assist people navigating transitions in health insurance coverage due to changes in employment status, evolving family configurations, age, and other factors. Furthermore, CAPs can play an important role in ensuring that consumers understand their rights and receive protections against surprise medical bills that Congress intended. | Support | |||||
| Federal | 2022 | Health Equity and Accountability Act of 2022 | Bill | H.R. 7585 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/7585 | Achieving health equity – the highest level of health for everyone – is a critical imperative for this country, not only because it is at the heart of our shared values of fairness, justice, and equal opportunity, but because it is impossible to have a sustainable healthcare system without it. The Health Equity and Accountability Act (HEAA) can provide the tools necessary to address these health inequities and ensure that health and health care disparities elimination are prioritized. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/HEAA-Letter-of-Support | Passed the out of the House 6/8/2022 and received by the Senate 6/9/2022 | |
| Federal | 2022 | Building a Sustainable Workforce for Healthy Communities Act | Bill | H.R. 8151/S. 3479 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/3479 https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/8151?s=1&r=22 | Reauthorizes funding allotted to the CDC for Community Health Workers through 2027 | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Sign-on_Building-Sustainable-CHW-Workforce_PIH_9-8-22.pdf | Introduced in the Senate 1/11/2022, and in the House 6/21/2022 | |
| Federal | 2022 | Saving Access to Laboratory Services Act | Bill | H.R. 8188/S. 4449 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/8188 https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/4449 | Updates Medicare's payment system for laboratory testing to provide improved access to testing and foster innovation. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Stakeholder-Letter-in-Support-of-SALSA-9-13-22.pdf | Introduced 6/22/2022 | |
| Federal | 2022 | Preserving Access to Home Health Act of 2022 | Bill | H.R. 8581/S. 4605 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/8581?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22HR+8581%22%2C%22HR%22%2C%228581%22%5D%7D&s=1&r=1 | Prevent cuts in Medicare's rates to Home Health Care rates from going into effect | Support | Introduced 7/28/2022 and referred to committee | ||
| Federal | 2021 | Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act (AKACA) | Bill | HR 3089/S 1544 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3089/actions | Establishes a limited streamlined federal Medicaid screening and enrollment pathway for providers caring for children so that children on Medicaid can receive prompt care in another state when the care is not available in their home state. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/AKACA-Updated-Endorsement-Letter-Fall-2022.pdf | Introduced 5/2021, referred to committee | |
| Federal | 2022 | Palliative Care and Hospice Education and Training Act (PCHETA) | Bill | S 4260 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/4260 | Improves training programs for Palliative Care and Hospice Education to increase the field of professionals with this training as the demand for such services is expected to grow. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Triage-Cancer-Letter-of-Support-for-PCHETA.pdf | Introduced 5/19/2022, referred to committee | |
| Federal | 2021 | Prostate Specific Antigen Screeing for High RIsk Insured Mens Act (PSA for HIM Act) | Bill | HR 1176 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1176/all-actions?s=1&r=95 | The PSA for HIM Act would waive deductibles, copayments, and coinsurances for prostate cancer screenings for those with a family history of prostate cancer or who are African-American. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/HR-1176-Endorsement-Letter.pdf | Introduced 2/19/2021 | |
| Federal | 2022 | Stop the Wait Act of 2022 | Bill | H.R.6583/S.3575 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/6583/text | Would eliminate the five month waiting period for SSDI and the 2 year waiting period for Medicare for those who are deemed disabled by the Social Security Administration | Support | Introduced in both the House and Senate Feb 2022 | ||
| Federal | 2022 | Comprehensive Cancer Survivorship Act | Bill | https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/uploadedfiles/the_comprehensive_cancer_survivorship_act_ccsa_-_bill_text.pdf | The CCSA will set new standards of care to improve the experience for survivors, their families, and caregivers, throughout their survivorship journey, from diagnosis to end of life. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/CCSA-Letter-of-Support.pdf | Introduced December 14, 2022 |