[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 85 (Tuesday, May 19, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Page S2369]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            RECOGNIZING THE INTERNATIONAL HEARING SOCIETY'S

 Mr. PETERS. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the 
International Hearing Society as they celebrate 75 years of advocacy, 
education, and support for hearing aid specialists in Michigan and 
around the world.
  Since its founding in 1951, IHS has grown to become the leading 
organization representing the interests of hearing aid specialists, 
spanning a vast network of healthcare professionals, advocates, and 
policymakers. Through this work, the organization aims to live up to 
its mission of ``advancing global hearing healthcare by strengthening 
professionals through education, advocacy, and ethical patient care.'' 
It is a privilege to recognize such an important Michigan institution 
as they celebrate this anniversary.
  For over seven decades, IHS has grown to meet the needs of its 
expanding membership of healthcare providers through the sharing of 
best practices that ensures a stable continuity of care. The 
organization demonstrates its commitment to education and quality care 
by offering industry-standard specialist accreditations, competence 
certifications, and a multitude of expertly crafted online courses for 
aspiring specialists. Not only do these opportunities provide critical 
support for providers, but they also expand hearing healthcare 
accessibility for patients and improve quality of service systemwide.
  IHS also maintains a robust network of advocates at the State, 
Federal, and international level, ensuring that hearing health 
providers can communicate their needs and expertise to lawmakers. The 
organization has continuously supported legislation intended to expand 
access to hearing aid specialists for millions of Americans, 
particularly veterans and those from rural and disadvantaged 
backgrounds. Their work has led to a meaningful expansion of hearing-
related care and quality of service in the United States, and the 
country is better for it.
  Given their 75 years of service, I ask you to join me in recognizing 
International Hearing Society as they celebrate this momentous 
occasion. I am grateful for the valuable work they have done to improve 
hearing care for countless Michiganders and fellow Americans, and I 
wish them all the best as they continue to support specialists and 
patients alike for years to come. 

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