New opportunities in the 120th Congress: What's next for HME
Congress has returned for a lame-duck session after the midterm elections. With a crowded year-end calendar, it is unclear what legislation can pass before the 119th Congress adjourns. The new year still brings real opportunity: the 120th Congress will be sworn in Jan. 3, 2027, and AAHomecare is already preparing.
The industry heads into the transition with a win. On Nov. 10, the president signed the Choices for Increased Mobility Act (H.R. 1703) into law. It took more than six years of advocacy by AAHomecare, our members and our partners, and it shows what persistent, bipartisan advocacy can do.
Saying goodbye to champions
Several longtime HME champions will not return in January, including Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), lead sponsor of the DMEPOS Relief Act (H.R. 2005). Rep. Greg Murphy (R-NC), has been a leading champion of the Access to Medical Supplies Act (H.R. 10787), which would protect access to ostomy and urological supplies, and Rep. David Valadao, sponsor of the Soar Act (H.R. 2902). We thank these lawmakers for their leadership on behalf of patients and providers.
Welcoming new allies
The incoming class also brings new friends, as well as an old friend coming back. Rep-elect Jerry Carl (R-AL) will be returning in the 120th Congress. Former member of Congress Carl ran DME businesses in the past and worked with AAHomcare regarding concerns with the DMEPOS competitve bidding program. Sen.-elect Josh Turek (D-IA), has used a wheelchair his entire life and previously worked for a mobility equipment provider. He visited Washington to advocate for the Choices for Increased Mobility Act. Sen.-elect James Talarico (D-TX), lives with Type 1 diabetes. Both bring firsthand understanding of the equipment our members provide, particularly complex rehab technology, continuous glucose monitors, and insulin pumps.
Our government affairs team and lobbyists have identified more potential allies in the incoming class. AAHomecare is working with consumer groups, state associations and other stakeholder partners to find existing relationships with these members elect. Now is the time to reach out and introduce yourself and your business, before their schedules fill up after they’re sworn in.
A new balance of power
The election reshaped the balance of power on Capitol Hill. There are 255 Democrats and 169 Republicans in the new House of Representatives, and 55 Democrats and 44 Republicans in the Senate, as of Nov. 13.
Shifts in control can open the door to bipartisan negotiation, and patient access to home medical equipment has long drawn support from both sides of the aisle. That puts HME priorities in a strong position for 2027.
Sharpening our message
After the elections, AAHomecare met with stakeholder partners in Arlington, Virginia, to refine our messaging for the new Congress. Patient access will be front and center. We will also continue to raise concerns about CMS regulatory overreach with Congress and the administration.
You’ll see this message in issue briefs, media outreach, and talking points AAHomecare shares with the 120th Congress. It will also shape our preparation for the Washington Legislative Conference, May 12-13, 2027.
The opportunities are there, but we need your help to build these relationships and move our priorities forward when our bills are reintroduced in the new year. Tell us about your relationships with members-elect, reach out to Stephanie Legree, stephaniel@aahomecare.org.