hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Expands who can certify and supervise care in Medicare/Medicaid nursing homes.
Reps. Kiggans (R-VA) and Dingell (D-MI) introduced this bill.
In committee, no House vote yet
This bill, introduced by Republican Representative Jennifer Kiggans (VA-02) and Democratic Representative Debbie Dingell (MI-06), aims to allow nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and clinical nurse specialists to certify and supervise care in skilled nursing and nursing facilities under Medicare and Medicaid. It is currently being reviewed by House committees, which is an early stage in the legislative process before it can be considered for a vote.
Introduced Jan 15, 2026
This bill was introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and the Ways and Means Committee. It must be approved by these committees before it can be considered for a vote by the full House. If passed by the House, it would then move to the Senate for consideration and a vote, and finally to the President to become law.
If this bill passes, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and clinical nurse specialists would be authorized to perform duties previously limited to physicians in skilled nursing and nursing facilities. This means these professionals could certify your need for care, supervise your health care plan, and be involved in explaining your rights as a resident. The goal is to streamline care delivery by expanding the pool of qualified providers.
Supporters Say
Supporters would argue this bill increases access to care by using more types of qualified health professionals.
Critics Say
Critics might raise concerns about the scope of practice or the level of physician oversight for certain medical decisions.
Proponents believe that allowing nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and clinical nurse specialists to take on more responsibilities can help address healthcare staffing shortages and improve efficiency in nursing facilities, especially in areas with fewer physicians. Opponents, if any emerge, might express reservations about shifting physician responsibilities to other providers, potentially citing differences in training or the need for physician-led teams in complex cases.