[House Report 119-696]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]


119th Congress   }                                      {      Report
                        HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
 2d Session      }                                      {     119-696
_______________________________________________________________________

                                     


                   DEPARTMENTS OF LABOR, HEALTH, AND
                   HUMAN SERVICES, AND EDUCATION, AND
                    RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
                               BILL, 2027

                               ----------                              

                              R E P O R T

                                 OF THE

                      COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS
                        HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

                             together with

                             MINORITY VIEWS

                        [TO ACCOMPANY H.R. 9260]




    [GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]






 June 11, 2026.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the 
              State of the Union and ordered to be printed
































119th Congress   }                                      {      Report
                        HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
 2d Session      }                                      {     119-696
_______________________________________________________________________

                                     


                   DEPARTMENTS OF LABOR, HEALTH, AND

                   HUMAN SERVICES, AND EDUCATION, AND

                    RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

                               BILL, 2027

                               __________

                              R E P O R T

                                 OF THE

                      COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS

                        HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

                             together with

                             MINORITY VIEWS

                        [TO ACCOMPANY H.R. 9260]








    [GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]







 June 11, 2026.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the 
              State of the Union and ordered to be printed
                                   _______
                                   
                 U.S. GOVERNMENT PUBLISHING OFFICE 
                 
54-742 PDF                   WASHINGTON : 2024 






























119th Congress   }                                      {      Report
                        HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
 2d Session      }                                      {     119-696

======================================================================



 
  DEPARTMENTS OF LABOR, HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, AND EDUCATION, AND 
               RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS BILL, 2027

                                _______
                                

 June 11, 2026.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the 
              State of the Union and ordered to be printed

                                _______
                                

          Mr. Aderholt, from the Committee on Appropriations, 
                        submitted the following

                              R E P O R T

                             together with

                             MINORITY VIEWS

                        [To accompany H.R. 9260]

    The Committee on Appropriations submits the following 
report in explanation of the accompanying bill making 
appropriations for the departments of Labor, Health and Human 
Services (except the Food and Drug Administration, the Agency 
for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, and the Indian 
Health Service), and Education, and the Committee for Purchase 
from People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled, Corporation for 
National and Community Service, Corporation for Public 
Broadcasting, Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, 
Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission, Institute of 
Museum and Library Services, Medicaid and CHIP Payment and 
Access Commission, Medicare Payment Advisory Commission, 
National Council on Disability, National Labor Relations Board, 
National Mediation Board, Occupational Safety and Health Review 
Commission, Railroad Retirement Board, and Social Security 
Administration for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2027, 
and for other purposes.

      

                        INDEX TO BILL AND REPORT

                                                            Page number

                                                            Bill Report
List of Abbreviations......................................
                                                                      6
Summary of Estimates and Appropriation.....................
                                                                      9
General Summary of the Bill................................
                                                                      9
Bill Wide Requirements.....................................
                                                                      9
Title I--Department of Labor:                                   2
                                                                     13
        Employment and Training Administration.............     2
                                                                     13
                Training and Employment Services...........     2
                                                                     15
                Job Corps..................................     8
                                                                     20
                Community Service Employment for Older 
                    Americans..............................
                                                                     21
                Federal Unemployment Benefits and 
                    Allowances.............................     9
                                                                     21
                State Unemployment Insurance and Employment 
                    Service
                    Operations.............................    10
                                                                     22
                Advances to the Unemployment Trust Fund and 
                    Other Funds............................    17
                                                                     24
                Program Administration.....................    17
                                                                     24
        Veterans' Employment and Training..................    17
                                                                     24
        Employee Benefits Security Administration..........    21
                                                                     26
        Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation...............    21
                                                                     26
        Office of Workers' Compensation Programs...........    23
                                                                     28
                Salaries and Expenses......................    23
                                                                     28
                Special Benefits...........................    23
                                                                     28
                Energy Employees Occupational Illness 
                    Compensation Fund......................    26
                                                                     29
                Special Benefits for Disabled Coal Miners..    26
                                                                     29
                Black Lung Disability Trust Fund...........    27
                                                                     29
        Wage and Hour Division.............................    23
                                                                     27
        Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs.....
                                                                     28
        Office of Labor-Management Standards...............    23
                                                                     28
        Occupational Safety and Health Administration......    27
                                                                     30
        Mine Safety and Health Administration..............    30
                                                                     31
        Bureau of Labor Statistics.........................    32
                                                                     32
        Office of Disability Employment Policy.............    32
                                                                     33
        Departmental Management............................    33
                                                                     34
        General Provisions.................................    35
                                                                     36
Title II--Department of Health and Human Services:             49
                                                                     38
        Health Resources and Services Administration.......    49
                                                                     38
                Primary Health Care........................    49
                                                                     38
                Health Workforce...........................    49
                                                                     41
                Maternal and Child Health..................    54
                                                                     48
                Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program................    55
                                                                     55
                Health Systems.............................    55
                                                                     56
                Rural Health...............................    56
                                                                     57
                HRSA-Wide Activities and Program Support...    58
                                                                     62
                Vaccine Injury Compensation Program........    59
                                                                     64
        Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.........    59
                                                                     65
                Immunization and Respiratory Diseases......    59
                                                                     66
                Viral Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted 
                    Disease, and
                    Tuberculosis Prevention................    60
                                                                     67
                Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases..    60
                                                                     68
                Chronic Disease Prevention and Health 
                    Promotion..............................    60
                                                                     74
                Birth Defects, Developmental Disabilities, 
                    Disabilities and Health................    61
                                                                     80
                Public Health Scientific Services..........    61
                                                                     83
                Environmental Health.......................    61
                                                                     85
                Injury Prevention and Control..............    61
                                                                     87
                National Institute for Occupational Safety 
                    and Health.............................    62
                                                                     88
                Energy Employees Occupational Illness 
                    Compensation
                    Program................................    62
                                                                     91
                Global Health..............................    62
                                                                     92
                Public Health Preparedness and Response....    63
                                                                     93
                CDC-Wide Activities and Program Support....    65
                                                                     94
                Buildings and Facilities...................    64
                                                                     98
        National Institutes of Health......................    67
                                                                     98
                National Cancer Institute..................    67
                                                                     99
                National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute..    67
                                                                    106
                National Institute of Dental and 
                    Craniofacial Research..................    67
                                                                    109
                National Institute of Diabetes and 
                    Digestive and Kidney
                    Diseases...............................    67
                                                                    110
                National Institute of Neurological 
                    Disorders and Stroke...................    68
                                                                    111
                National Institute of Allergy and 
                    Infectious Diseases....................    68
                                                                    118
                National Institute of General Medical 
                    Sciences...............................    68
                                                                    121
                Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute 
                    of Child Health and Human Development..    68
                                                                    123
                National Eye Institute.....................    69
                                                                    126
                National Institute of Environmental Health 
                    Sciences...............................    69
                                                                    127
                National Institute on Aging................    69
                                                                    127
                National Institute of Arthritis and 
                    Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases......    69
                                                                    128
                National Institute on Deafness and Other 
                    Communication Disorders................    69
                                                                    129
                National Institute of Nursing Research.....    70
                                                                    129
                National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and 
                    Alcoholism.............................    70
                                                                    130
                National Institute on Drug Abuse...........    70
                                                                    130
                National Institute of Mental Health........    70
                                                                    132
                National Human Genome Research Institute...    70
                                                                    133
                National Institute of Biomedical Imaging 
                    and Bioengineering.....................    70
                                                                    133
                National Center for Complementary and 
                    Integrative Health.....................    71
                                                                    134
                National Institute on Minority Health and 
                    Health Disparities.....................    71
                                                                    134
                John E. Fogarty International Center.......    71
                                                                    135
                National Library of Medicine...............    71
                                                                    135
                National Center for Advancing Translational 
                    Sciences...............................    72
                                                                    136
                Office of the Director.....................    72
                                                                    137
                Buildings and Facilities...................    74
                                                                    153
                Advanced Research Projects Agency for 
                    Health.................................    74
                                                                    153
        Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services 
            Administration.................................    74
                                                                    155
                Mental Health..............................    74
                                                                    157
                Substance Abuse Treatment..................    77
                                                                    166
                Substance Abuse Prevention.................    78
                                                                    171
                Health Surveillance and Program Support....    78
                                                                    174
        Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.........
                                                                    174
        Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services...........    79
                                                                    174
                Grants to States for Medicaid..............    79
                                                                    174
                Payments to the Health Care Trust Funds....    80
                                                                    175
                Program Management.........................    80
                                                                    175
                Health Care Fraud and Abuse Control Account    82
                                                                    198
        Administration for Children and Families...........    83
                                                                    199
                Payments to States for Child Support 
                    Enforcement and
                    Family Support Programs................    83
                                                                    199
                Low Income Home Energy Assistance..........    84
                                                                    199
                Refugee and Entrant Assistance.............    85
                                                                    199
                Promoting Safe and Stable Families.........    92
                                                                    203
                Child Care and Development Block Grant.....    86
                                                                    203
                Social Services Block Grant................    87
                                                                    204
                Children and Families Services Programs....    87
                                                                    205
                Payments for Foster Care and Permanency....    92
                                                                    213
        Administration for Community Living................    93
                                                                    214
        Administration for Strategic Preparedness and 
            Response.......................................    96
                                                                    221
                Research, Development, and Procurement.....    96
                                                                    226
                Operations, Preparedness, and Emergency 
                    Response...............................    98
                                                                    233
        Office of the Secretary............................    99
                                                                    237
                General Departmental Management............    99
                                                                    237
                Medicare Hearings and Appeals..............   102
                                                                    257
                Office of the National Coordinator for 
                    Health Information Technology..........   102
                                                                    257
                Office of Inspector General................   102
                                                                    258
                Office for Civil Rights....................   103
                                                                    259
                General Provisions.........................   103
                                                                    260
Title III--Department of Education:                           133
                                                                    264
                Office of Elementary and Secondary 
                    Education..............................   133
                                                                    264
                Education for the Disadvantaged............   133
                                                                    264
                Impact Aid.................................   134
                                                                    267
                School Improvement Programs................   135
                                                                    268
                Safe Schools and Citizenship Education.....   139
                                                                    270
                Indian Education...........................   137
                                                                    272
                Innovation and Improvement.................   137
                                                                    273
        Office of English Language Acquisition.............
                                                                    276
        Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative 
            Services.......................................   140
                                                                    276
                Special Education..........................   140
                                                                    276
                Rehabilitation Services....................   145
                                                                    279
                Special Institutions for Persons with 
                    Disabilities...........................   147
                                                                    281
                  American Printing House for the Blind....   147
                                                                    281
                  National Technical Institute for the Deaf   147
                                                                    281
                  Gallaudet University.....................   147
                                                                    282
        Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education...   148
                                                                    282
        Office of Postsecondary Education..................   149
                                                                    290
                Higher Education...........................   149
                                                                    290
                Howard University..........................   152
                                                                    298
                College Housing and Academic Facilities 
                    Loans..................................   152
                                                                    299
                Historically Black College and University 
                    Capital Financing Program Account......   152
                                                                    299
        Office of Federal Student Aid......................   148
                                                                    284
                Student Financial Assistance...............   148
                                                                    287
                Student Aid Administration.................   149
                                                                    289
        Institute of Education Sciences....................   153
                                                                    299
        Departmental Management............................   153
                                                                    301
        General Provisions.................................   154
                                                                    306
Title IV--Related Agencies:                                   167
                                                                    309
        Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or 
            Severely Disabled..............................   167
                                                                    309
        Corporation for National and Community Service 
            (AmeriCorps)...................................   168
                                                                    309
        Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service.........   174
                                                                    311
        Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission...   175
                                                                    312
        Institute of Museum and Library Services...........   175
                                                                    312
        Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission....   176
                                                                    313
        Medicare Payment Advisory Commission...............   176
                                                                    313
        National Council on Disability.....................   176
                                                                    314
        National Labor Relations Board.....................   176
                                                                    314
        National Mediation Board...........................   177
                                                                    314
        Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission...   178
                                                                    315
        Railroad Retirement Board..........................   178
                                                                    315
        Social Security Administration.....................   180
                                                                    315
Title V--General Provisions:                                  186
                                                                    320
House of Representatives Report Requirements...............
                                                                    323
        Minority Views.....................................
                                                                    323
        Full Committee Votes...............................
                                                                    327
        Comparative Statement of Budget Authority..........
                                                                    345
        Budgetary Impact Tables............................
                                                                    417
        Committee Hearings.................................
                                                                    419
        Ramseyer...........................................
                                                                    421
        Changes in the Application of Existing Law.........
                                                                    461
        Appropriations Not Authorized by Law...............
                                                                    470
        Transfers of Funds.................................
                                                                    474
        Rescissions of Funds...............................
                                                                    478
        Disclosure of Earmarks and Congressionally Directed 
            Spending.......................................
                                                                    479
                         List of Abbreviations

    The following is a list of commonly used abbreviations and 
acronyms that appear in this report.
  AI--Artificial Intelligence
  ACL--Administration for Community Living
  AHRQ--Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
  ASPR--Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response
  BARDA--Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority
  CBRN--Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear
  CDC--Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
  CHIP--Children's Health Insurance Program
  CMS--Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
  CNCS--Corporation for National and Community Service
  CTSA--Clinical and Translational Science Awards
  CTE--Career and Technical Education
  DOD--Department of Defense
  DOE--Department of Energy
  DOL--Department of Labor
  EBSA--Employee Benefits Security Administration
  ESEA--Elementary and Secondary Education Act
  ETA--Employment and Training Administration
  FDA--Food and Drug Administration
  FIC--Fogarty International Center
  FMSHRC--Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission
  FTE--Full-time Equivalent
  GAO--Government Accountability Office
  GLS--Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act
  HBCUs--Historically Black Colleges and Universities
  HCFAC--Health Care Fraud and Abuse Control
  HELP--Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions
  HHS--Health and Human Services
  HRSA--Health Resources and Services Administration
  HIPSA--Health Professional Shortage Area
  IC--Institute and Center
  IDEA--Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
  IHE--Institutions of Higher Education
  IMLS--Institute of Museum and Library Services
  LEA--Local Educational Agency
  MACPAC--Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission
  MCM--Medical Countermeasures
  MedPAC--Medicare Payment Advisory Commission
  MHBG--Community Mental Health Services Block Grant
  MSHA--Mine Safety and Health Administration
  NCATS--National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences
  NCES--National Center for Education Statistics
  NCI--National Cancer Institute
  NEI--National Eye Institute
  NHGRI--National Human Genome Research Institute
  NHLBI--National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
  NIA--National Institute on Aging
  NIAAA--National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
  NIAID--National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
  NIAMS--National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal 
        and Skin Diseases
  NIBIB--National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bio-
        engineering
  NICHD--Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child 
        Health and Human Development
  NIDA--National Institute on Drug Abuse
  NIDCD--National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication 
        Disorders
  NIDCR--National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research
  NIDDK--National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and 
        Kidney Disease
  NIDRR--National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation 
        Research
  NIEHS--National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
  NIGMS--National Institute of General Medical Sciences
  NIH--National Institutes of Health
  NIMH--National Institute of Mental Health
  NIMHD--National Institute on Minority Health and Health 
        Disparities
  NINDS--National Institute of Neurological Disorders and 
        Stroke
  NINR--National Institute of Nursing Research
  NLM--National Library of Medicine
  NLRB--National Labor Relations Board
  NSF--National Science Foundation
  NTID--National Technical Institute for the Deaf
  OAA--Older Americans Act
  OAR--Office of AIDS Research
  OCR--Office for Civil Rights
  ODEP--Office of Disability Employment Policy
  OFCCP--Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs
  OIG--Office of the Inspector General
  OLMS--Office of Labor-Management Standards
  OMB--Office of Management and Budget
  OMH--Office of Minority Health
  OMHA--Office of Medicare Hearings and Appeals
  ONC--Office of the National Coordinator for Health 
        Information Technology
  ORR--Office of Refugee Resettlement
  ORWH--Office of Research on Women's Health
  OSHA--Occupational Safety and Health Administration
  OWCP--Office of Workers' Compensation Programs
  OWH--Office of Women's Health
  PBGC--Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation
  PHS--Public Health Service
  PPA--Program, Project, or Activity
  PPHF--Prevention and Public Health Fund
  PRNS--Programs of Regional and National Significance
  RSA--Rehabilitation Services Administration
  SAMHSA--Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services 
        Administration
  SEA--State Educational Agency
  SPRANS--Special Projects of Regional and National 
        Significance
  SSA--Social Security Administration
  SSI--Supplemental Security Income
  STEM--Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
  SUPTRS--Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery 
        Services Block Grant
  UAC--Unaccompanied Alien Children
  UI--Unemployment Insurance
  USAID--U.S. Agency for International Development
  VETS--Veterans' Employment and Training Services
  VISTA--Volunteers in Service to America
  WANTO--Women in Apprenticeship and Non-Traditional 
        Occupations
  WHD--Wage and Hour Division
  WIA--Workforce Investment Act
  WIOA--Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
                Summary of Estimates and Appropriations

    The following table compares on a summary basis the 
appropriations, including trust funds for fiscal year 2027, the 
budget request for fiscal year 2027, and the Committee 
recommendation for fiscal year 2027 in the accompanying bill.

                                         2027 LABOR, HHS, EDUCATION BILL
                                 [Discretionary funding in thousands of dollars]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   Fiscal Year--                   2027 Committee compared to--
         Budget Activity         -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   2026 Enacted    2027 Budget-   2027 Committee   2026 Enacted     2027 Budget
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Labor.............     $13,459,430     $10,206,762      $9,776,305      -3,683,125        -430,457
Department of Health and Human       114,797,239      98,602,461     110,767,281      -4,029,958     +12,164,820
 Services.......................
Department of Education.........      78,793,603      77,192,582      70,655,376      -8,138,227      -6,537,206
Related Agencies................      17,079,804      15,516,381      16,966,419        -113,385      +1,450,038
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                      General Summary of the Bill

    For fiscal year 2027, the Committee recommends a total of 
$189,279,000,000 in current year discretionary funding--the 
302(b) allocation--and $208,165,381,000 in overall programmatic 
funding, including offsets and adjustments. The fiscal year 
2027 recommendation is a decrease of $15,964,695,000 below the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    The Committee notes that the President's budget request 
includes several important proposals to reform and reorganize 
the Federal government. The Committee applauds these efforts to 
improve efficiency while reducing waste, fraud, and abuse. The 
Committee notes that the authorizing committees of jurisdiction 
have not yet had the opportunity to consider every 
reorganizational proposal. Accordingly, the Committee's bill 
and report reflect do not make significant changes to the 
organizational structure of the agencies funded herein. The 
Committee looks forward to working with the authorizing 
committees of jurisdiction as they act on the proposed 
organizational reforms submitted as part of the budget request.

                         Bill Wide Requirements

    In cases where this report directs the submission of a 
report, that report is to be submitted to the Committee on 
Appropriations of the House of Representatives. Where this 
report refers to the Committee or the Committee on 
Appropriations, unless otherwise noted, this reference is to 
the House of Representatives Subcommittee on Labor, Health and 
Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies.
    Each department and agency funded by this Act shall follow 
the directives set forth by this Act and the accompanying 
report and shall not reallocate resources or reorganize 
activities except as provided herein. Funds for individual 
programs and activities are displayed in the detailed table at 
the end of the report accompanying this Act. Funding levels 
that are not displayed in the detailed table are identified 
within this report. Any action to eliminate or consolidate 
programs, projects, and activities should be pursued through a 
proposal in the President's Budget so it can be considered by 
the Committee.
    This report provides additional direction and specificity 
on the uses of funds provided by the accompanying bill. For all 
purposes, including the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit 
Control Act of 1985, with respect to appropriations contained 
in the accompanying bill, the terms ``program, project, and 
activity'' shall mean any item for which a dollar amount is 
contained in appropriations acts (including joint resolutions 
providing continuing appropriations) or accompanying reports of 
the House of Representatives and the Senate Committees on 
Appropriations, or accompanying conference reports and joint 
explanatory statements of the committee of conference.
    The Committee directs agencies to submit any reprogramming 
or transfer requests in compliance with requirements of the 
accompanying act, as applicable, and to provide a thorough 
explanation of the proposed reallocations, including a detailed 
justification of increases and reductions. The Committee 
directs each agency to manage the expenditures of its programs 
and activities to remain within the amounts appropriated by 
Congress.
    Budget Submission.--As part of the President's Budget 
Request, each department is directed to provide the Committee 
in electronic format, a table that corresponds with every 
program line found in the detailed table at the end of this 
report. Such a table shall include a column for the most 
recently enacted appropriation, the current year, and the 
budget year, assuming current law.
    In addition, the Committee continues to expect delivery of 
all congressional justifications and budget summary documents 
no later than the day of the President's Budget Appendix 
publication online. The department shall notify the Committee 
24 hours in advance of any anticipated delay.
    As part of the congressional justifications submitted to 
the Committee, each agency is directed to include a table, for 
each program funded in the most recently enacted full year 
appropriation or proposed for funding or elimination in the 
budget request, that includes the following: last year of 
authorization; authorization level; appropriations in the last 
year of authorization (if applicable); appropriations in the 
most recently enacted full year appropriation (if applicable); 
amount proposed in the budget request (if applicable).
    Congressional Reports.--Each department or agency is 
directed to provide the Committee, within 30 days from the date 
of enactment of this Act, and quarterly thereafter, a summary 
describing each requested report to the Committee along with 
related actions completed in the current and prior quarters and 
planned actions to be completed in future quarters. Such a 
summary shall be cumulative for all fiscal years for which any 
report remains outstanding.
    Customer Experience.--The Committee continues to support 
efforts to improve agency customer experience. The Committee 
urges all agencies funded by this Act to develop standards to 
improve customer experience and incorporate the standards into 
the performance plans required under 31 U.S.C. 1115. The 
Committee requests an update from all agencies funded by this 
Act to report on their implementation plans regarding this 
subject in the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification.
    Grant Continuation Cost Estimates.--As part of the fiscal 
year 2028 congressional justification, each department or 
agency funded by this Act with discretionary budget authority 
for competitively awarded grants shall include the expected 
cost of continuation awards for each competitively awarded 
grant and any amount the department or agency would seek to 
issue a new competitive funding opportunity announcement for 
such grant in the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification. 
In addition, the department shall include the anticipated 
number of awards and average anticipated award for such year.
    Grant Oversight.--The new Administration has identified 
numerous discrepancies within existing grant programs 
throughout the bill. In response to these issues the Committee 
directs, within 30 days of enactment of this Act, and every 30 
days thereafter until November 30, 2027, to brief the Committee 
on the status of all formula and competitive grants. Each 
briefing is to include a summary of competitive and formula 
awards made in the prior 30 days, Notices of Funding 
Opportunities (NOFOs) the respective department anticipates 
issuing within the next 30 days, and a summary of Notices of 
Funding Opportunities issued in the preceding 30 days. As 
applicable per grant program, award and NOFO summaries are to 
indicate whether such awards are continuation awards, 
supplemental grant awards, and/or new competitions and if such 
amounts are forward funded. NOFO summaries are to include new 
competitive criteria, changes from the prior year, expected 
number of awards, expected amount per award, and status of 
review panels.
    National Academy of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.--
The Committee notes prior concern with recommendations 
developed by the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering, and 
Medicine (NASEM). The Committee urges agencies to consider all 
means for obtaining objective scientific review. The Committee 
expects agencies to execute contracts with the highest 
standards of scientific rigor in an objective, nonpartisan 
manner. The full spectrum of scientific views should be 
represented on a research committee, council, or panel 
membership without conflict of interest or ideology.
    Outcome-Based Reviews.--The Committee supports: (1) the 
conduct of outcome-based program and operational reviews 
consistent with the Government Performance and Results 
Modernization Act of 2010; (2) the review of existing 
regulations, internal policies, and administrative requirements 
to identify outdated, duplicative, or unnecessarily burdensome 
provisions; and (3) the identification of opportunities for 
cost savings, administrative streamlining, and improved program 
delivery. As part of the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification the Secretaries of Health and Human Services, 
Education, and Labor, shall include information on agency 
efforts to strengthen performance management, regulatory 
review, and oversight practices to better align spending with 
measurable outcomes.
    Performance Reporting.--As part of the congressional 
justification for fiscal year 2028, each department or agency 
funded by this Act is directed to include the percentage of the 
Senior Executive Service for each performance level (5--
outstanding, 4--exceeds fully successful, 3--fully successful, 
2--minimally satisfactory, or 1--unsatisfactory). In addition, 
the department or agency shall include in such justification 
the total dollar amount spent on performance awards for the 
Senior Executive Service for the most recent fiscal year for 
which data is available and the number of full time 
equivalents.
    Questions for the Record.--The Committee notes the 
inclusion of section 526 of this Act, which requires each 
department and agency to provide answers to questions submitted 
for the record within 45 business days of receipt. The 
Committee expects each department and agency to notify the 
Committees at least 7 days in advance if they do not anticipate 
meeting this statutory requirement.
                      TITLE I--DEPARTMENT OF LABOR


 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................   $15,384,043,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................    11,773,555,000
Committee Recommendation..............................    11,903,040,000
    Change from enacted level.........................    -3,481,003,000
    Change from budget request........................      +169,485,000
 

                 Employment and Training Administration


 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................   $10,420,366,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     7,256,865,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     7,072,113,000
    Change from enacted level.........................    -3,348,253,000
    Change from budget request........................      -184,752,000
 

    The Employment and Training Administration (ETA) 
administers Federal job training grant programs and Trade 
Adjustment Assistance and provides funding for the 
administration and oversight of the State Unemployment 
Insurance and Employment Service system.
    Agriculture Labor Definition.--The Committee notes there is 
a longstanding labor shortage impacting the agriculture 
industry, especially the livestock industry. Many agricultural 
businesses have turned to the H-2A program to remain 
operational, but some industries, such as livestock auction 
markets, are constrained or ineligible to participate due to 
the Department of Labor definition of agricultural labor, work, 
or services. Therefore, the Committee urges the Department to 
assess ways to improve these definitions that accurately take 
into account off-farm handling of livestock in sale barns or 
auction houses.
    Collaborations Between Manufacturers and Educational 
Institutions.--The Committee encourages the Department to 
develop pilot programs that facilitate education and training 
programs in the field of advanced manufacturing.
    Critical Minerals Battery Workforce Development.--The 
Committee is aware of growing workforce needs associated with 
domestic battery manufacturing and critical minerals processing 
industries. The Committee urges the Department to support 
workforce development activities aligned with battery 
manufacturing and critical minerals processing, and to 
collaborate with the Department of Energy (DoE) to align 
workforce efforts with evolving industry needs.
    Electric Vehicle Training.--The Committee recognizes the 
growing need for highly-skilled mechanics and technicians in 
the motorized vehicle, automotive, train, and aviation fields 
to prepare for advances in the technology of electric vehicle 
and related new propulsion industries, including biofuels and 
internal combustion, and hydrogen engines. Therefore, the 
Committee encourages the Department to work with industry 
partners, workforce groups, labor unions, public transportation 
leaders, and nonprofit experts to better support pathways for 
mechanics and mechanical technicians in innovative automotive 
and aviation fields, and to develop curriculum and training 
programs to further career opportunities.
    Identity Theft and SSN Truncation on Forms W-2.--The 
Committee is concerned that federal law enacted in 2015, Sec. 
409 of the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act of 
2015 (P.L. 114-113) and related Internal Revenue Service (IRS) 
regulations, are being ignored or disregarded in contravention 
of the statute as state workforce entities conduct audits of 
Unemployment Insurance (UI) claims and paid leave. Critically, 
the PATH Act and resulting agency practice allow that ``all or 
part'' of an individual's Social Security Number (SSN) be 
reported to protect employees from identity theft. An excerpt 
from the Department of Labor's ET Handbook No. 407. notes 
clearly that a partial SSN is acceptable. The IRS has issued 
final regulations (TD 9861, Use of Truncated Taxpayer 
Identification Numbers on Forms W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, 
Furnished to Employees), which allow employers to truncate 
employees' SSNs on copies of Forms W-2. The Committee is 
concerned that ``states have experienced a surge in fraudulent 
unemployment claims filed by organized crime rings using stolen 
identities,'' and efforts made by state agencies to prevent 
such fraud could be a driving cause of continued identity 
theft. The Committee urges the Secretary of Labor to issue 
guidance to state agencies regarding full SSNs on Forms W-2, 
Forms 1099, and similar forms that are provided for audit 
purposes, including state audits for UI and paid leave.
    Maritime Workforce Development.--The Committee urges the 
Secretary of Labor to establish a maritime workforce 
development exchange focused on training programs with 
innovative technologies, including augmented-reality and 
virtual-reality based welding and painting technologies, with 
the objective of training and modernizing the U.S. shipbuilding 
workforce.
    O*NET Taxonomy Review.--The Committee directs the 
Department to assess how the O*NET technology should be updated 
to reflect artificial intelligence (AI)-related changes. No 
longer than 180 days after the enactment of this Act, the 
Department shall submit a report to the Committee on its 
recommendations for updates, including timeline and resource 
needs.
    Prioritizing High Wage Industries.--The Committee notes the 
efforts of the current Administration to target high-wage, 
high-growth occupations. When consistent with authorizing 
statute, the Committee continues to direct the Department to 
prioritize grant applications in industries and occupations 
that exceed the average earnings of a high school graduate 
based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment 
and Wage Statistics when making competitive grant awards.
    Property Management and Hospitality.--The Committee 
recognizes the importance of career and technical education for 
adults and youth who have not received traditional or adequate 
education. The Committee encourages the Department to fund non-
profit organizations that deliver wraparound services to train 
adults in technical skills to have careers such as property 
management, property maintenance, digital marketing, and 
hospitality.
    Upskilling Workers in Industrial Sectors.--The Committee 
acknowledges that in today's technology-driven industrial 
environment, workers are expected to continuously upskill, 
particularly in industries where generations of technology 
outpace generations of workers. Immersive technology can equip 
the workforce with the skills and knowledge necessary for the 
future of work. The Committee encourages the Department to 
assess the ways in which use of immersive technology can be 
leveraged to train and upskill workers in industrial sectors 
including but not limited to energy, manufacturing, 
construction, mining, and automotive assembly.
    Workforce Sustainability and Upskilling.--The Committee 
encourages the Department to support national workforce 
training organizations that partner with employers to provide 
skills-based, industry-recognized credentialed training aligned 
with high-demand, emerging industries. The Committee further 
encourages the Department to prioritize reskilling and 
upskilling of the existing workforce to meet needs in critical 
industries and support long-term economic and national security 
objectives.

                    TRAINING AND EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $3,981,588,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     3,425,067,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     1,889,912,000
    Change from enacted level.........................    -2,091,676,000
    Change from budget request........................    -1,535,155,000
 

    Training and Employment Services provides funding for 
Federal job training programs authorized primarily by the 
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014 (WIOA). The 
Committee appreciates the potential value of the 
Administration's proposed streamlining of ETA program.

Adult Employment and Training Activities

    The Committee provides $712,000,000 in advance funding for 
adult training, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level. The Committee provides no funding for fiscal 
year 2027 for this program.
    The Committee has included a provision reducing the funding 
available for fiscal year 2026 by $712,000,000.
    The Committee provides no funding for Adult Employment and 
Training Activities.

Youth Employment and Training Activities

    The Committee provides no funding for Youth Employment and 
Training Activities. The Committee notes the absence of 
evidence that the program improves employment and educational 
outcomes for program participants and that the Department has 
failed to implement the program in a manner consistent with the 
changes enacted in the now expired WIOA. This program is 
largely duplicative of the Perkins Career and Technical 
Education, 21st Century Community Learning Centers, and Student 
Support and Academic Enrichment programs.

Dislocated Worker Employment and Training Activities

    For this activity, the Committee provides $1,421,412,000. 
Of the total provided for Dislocated Worker Employment and 
Training Activities, $1,095,553,000 is designated for State 
grants that provide core and intensive services, training, and 
supportive services for dislocated workers. In addition, States 
use these funds for rapid response assistance to help workers 
affected by mass layoffs and plant closures. The remaining 
amount is available for the Dislocated Workers National Reserve 
(DWNR). DWNR supports national emergency grants, technical 
assistance, and demonstration projects as authorized by WIOA. 
Within this total. The Committee provides $860,000,000 in 
advanced appropriations for fiscal year 2028.
    Within the total for Dislocated Worker Employment and 
Training Activities, the Committee provides the following 
amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dislocated Worker Assistance             $300,859,000       $325,859,000
 National Reserve.................
    Workforce Opportunity for              55,000,000         60,000,000
     Rural Communities (non-add)..
    Community Colleges Training            65,000,000         75,000,000
     Grants (non-add).............
    Cybersecurity Grants (non-add)         15,000,000         25,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities.--Within the 
funds provided for DWNR, the Committee provides $60,000,000 for 
the Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities (WORC) program, 
an increase of $5,000,000, to provide enhanced worker training 
in the Appalachian, Delta, and Northern Border regions. The 
Committee directs DOL to ensure that this funding increase is 
used to support multigenerational workforce training pipelines 
developed in collaboration with institutions of higher 
education and workforce development system partner agencies in 
regions with a WORC program.
    Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grants.--From 
within the amounts provided for DWNR, the Committee provides 
$75,000,000, an increase of $10,000,000 from fiscal year 2026 
enacted, for the Strengthening Community Colleges Training 
Grants.
    The Committee recommends that future funding opportunities 
for the Community College Training Grants include opportunities 
for individual institutions rather than consortiums. The 
Committee also encourages the Department to consider funding 
alternative workforce development strategies that address 
critical skill gaps and support direct, innovative pathways to 
employment for community members.
    Cybersecurity and Software Development Employment 
Opportunities.--The Committee remains concerned about the high, 
unmet demand for cybersecurity and software development skills 
in both the DOD and the private sector. Of the total provided 
for the DWNR, the Committee directs $25,000,000 for competitive 
grants to institutions of higher education as defined in 20 
U.S.C. 1001, State Workforce Agencies, local workforce 
development boards, and employer associations for the purpose 
of a targeted highly skilled job training grant to help 
increase training capacity to meet this demand. For purposes of 
making awards under this program, DOL is directed to prioritize 
applicants located in States with the greatest number of 
Federally recognized Tribes and with preexisting DOD 
partnerships. DOL is directed to provide the Committee with a 
briefing on this initiative within 120 days.
    EMS Preparedness and Response Workforce Development.--The 
Committee recognizes the significant workforce shortage in 
emergency medical services (EMS) sector, particularly in 
underserved, rural, and Tribal communities, which limits access 
to critical prehospital ground ambulance medical services, 
including critical care transport. The Committee encourages the 
Department to utilize existing funds through the Workforce 
Opportunities for Rural Communities Initiative to prioritize 
sector-based workforce development strategies to address the 
ongoing EMS workforce shortage in high-need areas. These 
workforce development strategies should focus on the 
recruitment, training, and retention of emergency medical 
technicians and paramedics with an emphasis on creating career 
pathways and expanding employment opportunities in underserved, 
rural, and Tribal communities.

Native American Programs

    For Native American programs, the Committee provides 
$65,000,000, an increase of $2,500,000, for these programs.

Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers

    The Committee provides no fiscal year 2027 funding for this 
program.

YouthBuild

    For the YouthBuild program, the Committee provides 
$107,500,000. WIOA reformed the YouthBuild program to 
prioritize the employment and educational outcomes of program 
participants.

Reintegration of Ex-Offenders

    The Committee provides no fiscal year 2027 funding for this 
program.

Workforce Data Quality Initiative

    The Committee provides $6,000,000 for the Workforce Data 
Quality Initiative.

Apprenticeship Programs

    The Committee provides $290,000,000 for apprenticeship 
grants including $100,000,000 for apprenticeship State grants. 
The Committee notes the modest increase in the number of 
apprentices generated by considerable and sustained 
congressional investment.
    AI Infrastructure Trades.--The Committee recognizes that 
the buildout of data centers and associated electric 
generation, transmission, and distribution infrastructure is 
increasing demand for skilled trades. The Committee encourages 
ETA, within existing authorities and available funds, to 
prioritize industry-vetted training partnerships and registered 
apprenticeship expansion for AI infrastructure trades, such as 
electricians, HVAC/thermal technicians, and automation 
technicians. To promote accountability and respond to rapidly 
shifting demand, the Committee further encourages ETA to 
support employer-led partnerships. The Committee requests 
information in the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification 
on the actions taken to improve training programs for AI 
infrastructure trades.
    Apprenticeships and Cooperative Agreements.--The Committee 
recognizes the strong national demand for expanding registered 
apprenticeships across priority industries such as defense, AI, 
semiconductors, healthcare, transportation, telecommunications, 
and advanced manufacturing. The Committee encourages the 
Department, through ETA, to assess the feasibility and value of 
cooperative agreements with experienced apprenticeship 
intermediaries capable of providing sponsor functions, 
supporting employers, coordinating with State agencies, and 
strengthening system-wide quality and responsiveness.
    Apprenticeship Degree.--The Committee encourages DOL to 
support apprenticeship degree programs where institutions of 
higher education integrate the awarding of affordable college 
degrees with the hallmarks of registered apprenticeships. The 
Committee further encourages DOL to prioritize funding for 
apprenticeship degrees in future Funding Opportunity 
Announcements.
    Apprenticeship Networks.--The Committee urges the 
Department to support the development of apprenticeship 
networks with community colleges, in partnership with regional 
workforce development boards and K-12 schools, working with 
businesses and industry stakeholders to develop 
apprenticeships, pre-apprenticeships, and apprenticeship 
pathway programs for students, young adults, and other 
individuals looking to work in industries, including, but not 
limited to, automotive, early childhood education, healthcare, 
information technologies, industrial technology, community and 
public services, advanced manufacturing, and logistics and 
distribution.
    Apprenticeship Programs in Workforce Shortage Areas.--The 
Committee recognizes the critical role that the Department's 
Apprenticeship program plays in addressing workforce shortages 
in priority industries and providing valuable educational and 
on-the-job training opportunities for participants. The 
Committee urges the Department to continue efforts to encourage 
apprenticeships in health, education, and childcare industries 
in communities with designated shortages, including health 
provider shortage areas, teacher shortage areas, and childcare 
deserts.
    Automotive Technician Apprenticeships.--The Committee 
recognizes the nation's economy depends on a reliable 
transportation workforce. However, the nation faces a severe 
and accelerating shortage of skilled automotive, diesel, and 
collision technicians. The Committee is concerned that between 
now and 2028, the United States will need to fill over 800,000 
technician positions in automotive, collision, and diesel. The 
Committee recognizes that without targeted, work-based training 
solutions, the U.S. risks losing productivity, competitiveness, 
and long-term workforce stability. The Committee encourages the 
ETA to prioritize grants for technician apprenticeship programs 
to sustain workforce needs.
    Defense Industrial Base-focused Apprenticeship Programs.--
The Committee encourages DOL to prioritize increased funding 
for existing training programs in advanced manufacturing, 
defense technology, and other high-demand industries supporting 
the defense industrial base. The Committee further encourages 
DOL to continue facilitating partnerships between industry, 
academia, and government agencies to establish and promote 
pathway programs that would grow the defense industrial base 
workforce.
    Non-Traditional Apprenticeships.--The Committee supports 
efforts by the Department aimed at developing non-traditional 
apprenticeships, including supporting and scaling registered 
apprenticeship programs beyond the building and fire trades.
    Nuclear Workforce Development.--The Committee is concerned 
with the continued shortage of skilled workers for civilian 
nuclear power systems, including certified electrical workers. 
Registered apprenticeship programs can offer the resources and 
expertise needed to meet workforce capacity needs. However, 
these programs and associated training centers face resource 
and technical barriers when training employees to work safely 
on these systems. The Committee encourages the Department to 
prioritize nuclear workforce development programs, specifically 
in coordination with registered apprenticeship programs.
    Parents of Dependent Children.--The Committee encourages 
DOL to provide grantees guidance related to coordinating with 
community-based providers of wraparound services to support 
parents of dependent children enrolled in registered 
apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs.
    Partnerships.--The committee encourages the Department to 
support collaborations between manufacturers and educational 
institutions that facilitate education and training programs in 
the field of advanced manufacturing.
    Technology-Related Fields.--The Committee recognizes the 
growing need to invest in registered apprenticeship programs 
that prepare workers to meet the demands of an evolving labor 
market. The Committee encourages DOL to continue to prioritize 
grants centered on new, emerging, and in-demand industry 
sectors and occupations, including those within the cyber 
industry and other technology-related fields.
    Recognition Process for Registered Apprenticeship 
Intermediaries.--The Committee recognizes that qualified 
registered apprenticeship intermediaries can play a critical 
role in supporting employer engagement, sponsor development, 
compliance, and multi-State coordination within the National 
Apprenticeship System. However, the Committee believes greater 
clarity and transparency regarding intermediary roles and 
performance is necessary. The Committee therefore urges the 
Department to review the feasibility and value of a formal 
recognition process for Registered Apprenticeship 
Intermediaries. Review should include roles and 
responsibilities, standards for recognition, and geographic 
recognition. The Department shall submit an update in the 
fiscal year 2028 congressional justification.
    Wastewater Apprenticeships.--The Committee commends the 
Department for awarding funding to address challenges of 
Registered Apprenticeship programs in rural areas and to 
address inadequacies in the water sector across rural America 
and U.S. territories. The Committee recommends $20,000,000 in 
grant funding to establish, implement, expand, and administer 
registered apprenticeship programs consistent with the National 
Guideline Standards of Apprenticeship for Water and Wastewater 
System Operations Specialists to address nationwide shortages 
of qualified drinking water and wastewater operators, 
especially in rural America and the areas of the U.S. with the 
highest Safe Water Drinking Act violations.

                               JOB CORPS

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $1,760,155,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       176,370,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       880,078,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -880,077,000
    Change from budget request........................      +703,708,000
 

    Job Corps is a residential education and vocational 
training program that helps young people ages 16 through 24 
improve the quality of their lives through vocational and 
academic training.
    The Committee has concerns about the historical oversight 
of job placement contracts. The DOL Office of Inspector General 
(OIG) found evidence that contractors helped only six percent 
of the sampled participants find work. The others found jobs on 
their own, or there was not enough evidence to show the 
contractors helped them. The OIG estimated that nearly 
$71,000,000 went to contractors for services they could not 
show they provided.
    Alignment with Defense Industrial Base and Veterans' Health 
Workforce Needs.--The Committee directs the Department to work 
with the Department of Defense and Department of Veterans 
Affairs to improve Job Corps hiring, internships, and 
apprenticeship pipelines to meet workforce shortages in the 
defense industrial base and the veterans' health system.
    Civilian Conservation Centers.--The Committee respectfully 
urges the Department to ensure full funding of Civilian 
Conservation Centers (CCCs) and that no funds provided under 
the CCC program are used to alter or terminate the Interagency 
Agreement between the DOL and the Department of Agriculture 
(USDA), or to close any CCCs, thereby ensuring CCCs remain 
fully operational in the coming fiscal year.
    Cybersecurity Workforce Pathways for Job Corps Students.--
The Committee recognizes the urgent national need to address 
the cybersecurity workforce shortage and supports efforts to 
modernize Job Corps career training offerings in alignment with 
current labor market demands. The Committee provides 
$25,000,000 to expand existing pilot programs which improve the 
current Information Technology pathway by creating an 
opportunity for Job Corps students to earn industry-recognized 
cybersecurity credentials and connect with employers in the 
cybersecurity sector. The Committee is aware that this 
initiative leverages national partnerships with technology 
leaders and aligns with the Department's ongoing efforts to 
improve job placement, instructional content, and program 
efficiency within Job Corps. The Committee directs the 
Department to provide a report within 180 days of enactment of 
this Act on the implementation and expansion of such 
cybersecurity training programs regionally and nationally, and 
how such efforts align with existing Job Corps modernization 
priorities.
    Job Corps Competitiveness.--The Committee recognizes the 
benefits of well-run, successful Job Corps programs in 
providing vocational education to the youth of the United 
States. On the other hand, underperforming Job Corps programs 
have been weighing the appropriation down and undermining the 
potential value of the program. According to the 2025 Job Corps 
Transparency Report, the average graduation rate is 32 percent, 
while the average cost per graduate is over $187,000. 
Therefore, within the funds appropriated, the Committee urges 
DOL to award contracts to the highest performing programs.
    Job Corps Centers Utilization.--The Committee is concerned 
with the persistent underutilization of Job Corps centers and 
directs the DOL to conduct an analysis of application and 
enrollment data to evaluate the relative effectiveness of 
recruitment investments, including social media advertising 
targeted at eligible youth and their influencers, national 
media campaigns, and local outreach efforts.
    Job Corps Programing.--The Committee is concerned that the 
relative lack of success is due to instructional content that 
does not reflect job-site best practices or the jobs of today's 
economy. To better ensure a variety of high-quality programs 
are available to Job Corps students, the Committee directs DOL 
to limit grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements for 
purposes of instructional content to no more than $10,000,000.
    Leveraging External Resources.--The Committee encourages 
the Department to transition new Job Corps campus operations 
awards to contracts that are in the best interest to the 
federal government to ensure such financial accountability.
    Maximizing Employer Partnerships.--The Committee encourages 
DOL to fully leverage section 29 U.S.C. 3208 to maximize the 
resources available to campuses to develop these partnerships 
and meet employers' needs.

            COMMUNITY SERVICE EMPLOYMENT FOR OLDER AMERICANS

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $395,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................             - - -
Committee Recommendation..............................             - - -
    Change from enacted level.........................      -395,000,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Committee provides no funding for the Community Service 
Employment for Older Americans program, also known as the 
Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP). The 
Committee notes that the last comprehensive evaluation of SCSEP 
found that the program led to unsubsidized employment for less 
than half of program participants available for employment with 
worse outcomes for participants with a disability, older 
adults, and participants with lower levels of education. 
Moreover, the largest recipients of SCSEP grants are 
organizations based in the Washington, D.C. area rather than 
direct service providers.

              FEDERAL UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $50,300,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        28,800,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        28,800,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -21,500,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Committee provides $28,800,000 for the Trade Adjustment 
Assistance program, consistent with the fiscal year 2027 budget 
request.

     STATE UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE AND EMPLOYMENT SERVICE OPERATIONS

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $4,074,890,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     3,459,338,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     4,119,890,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +45,000,000
    Change from budget request........................      +660,552,000
 

    The total includes $4,055,584 from the Employment Security 
Administration Account in the Unemployment Trust Fund and 
$64,306,000 from the General Fund of the Treasury. These funds 
are used to support the administration of Federal and State 
unemployment compensation laws.

Unemployment Insurance Compensation

    In addition, the Committee provides contingency funding for 
increased workloads that States may face in the administration 
of unemployment insurance (UI). The Committee includes bill 
language so that, during fiscal year 2026, for every 100,000 
increase in the total average weekly insured unemployment 
(AWIU) above 3,075,000, an additional $28,600,000 is made 
available to States from the Unemployment Trust Fund.
    If additional funds are provided to States under the AWIU 
contingency authority, the Department is directed to provide 
notification to the Committee of the current projected AWIU 
level for the fiscal year, when funds were provided to States, 
and how much additional funding was provided in total and to 
each State within 15 days of funding being provided. If 
additional funds are provided on a quarterly basis, the 
Department is directed to provide this information to the 
Committee on a quarterly basis.
    The Committee provides $117,000,000 funding for the 
Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessments (RESEA) 
program. The Committee supports the intent of the program to 
provide more intensive services to individuals most likely to 
use all their unemployment insurance benefits; however, the 
Committee is concerned that the program has not achieved the 
cost savings projected by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) 
and does not provide additional funding pursuant to the 
Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act.

Unemployment Insurance Integrity Center of Excellence

    The Committee provides $9,000,000 for the continued support 
of Unemployment Insurance Integrity Center of Excellence.

Unemployment Insurance National Activities

    The Committee provides $22,000,000 for UI national 
activities. This funding is intended to help modernize 
information technology systems and support States in 
administering the UI program.

Employment Service

    The Committee provides $690,552,000 for the Employment 
Service allotment to States. The Committee also provides 
$15,500,000 for Employment Service National Activities.

Foreign Labor Certification

    The Committee provides $64,528,000, an increase of 
$3,000,000 from fiscal year 2026 enacted, for the Federal 
administration of the Foreign Labor Certification program and 
$23,282,000 for grants to States.
    Adverse Effect on Wage Rate.--The Committee notes the 
pending request with the Government Accountability Office (GAO) 
to engage in a study on the Adverse Effect Wage Rates. The 
Committee looks forward to reviewing the results of the study 
and the report once published.
    Agricultural Program Efficiency.--The Committee is 
concerned with recurring delays and disruptions in the H-2A 
temporary agricultural worker program, particularly 
administrative holds, processing delays, and interruptions in 
labor certification. The Committee directs the Department, in 
coordination with the Department of Homeland Security and the 
Department of State, to submit a report to the Committees not 
later than 90 days after enactment of this Act detailing: (1) 
current processing timelines across each stage of the H-2A 
program; (2) identified points of delay or disruption; and (3) 
contingency plans to address such delays and ensure continuity 
of labor certification processing during periods of lapse in 
appropriations or other operational disruptions.
    Enhanced Wage Records.--A growing number of States are 
beginning to collect or expand use of enhanced wage records 
(EWRs), which include additional categories of data such as job 
title, hours worked, and job location to complement employers' 
Federally mandated quarterly unemployment insurance wage record 
submissions. By significantly strengthening the quality of 
labor market data, enhanced wage records are helping states to 
improve program integrity and enhance workforce, industry-
level, and regional economic development strategies. To support 
modernization efforts and reduce compliance burdens for 
multistate employers, the Committee directs the Department to 
develop, within 365 days of the enactment of this Act, optional 
model language and guidance, including an Unemployment 
Insurance Program Letter, for State governments interested in 
expanding reporting wage record data collection. Additionally, 
the Committee recommends that the Department develop a set of 
common data standards for use by states to structure their EWR 
collections and reporting approach.
    Schedule A Occupational Classification.--The Committee is 
aware that the Permanent Labor Certification Process, which 
must be completed before an international worker is permitted 
to move into the queue for an employment-based green card, 
continues to take nearly 500 days at the Department. This delay 
means that the total processing time at the Department to hire 
or transition a foreign-born employee to a green card can take 
up to two years, not including processing time at U.S. 
Citizenship and Immigration Services or the Department of 
State. Such a long wait makes it highly difficult for employers 
to plan their business activities or take on new opportunities. 
The Committee recommends that the Department continue efforts 
to modernize the Schedule A classifications.
    Seafood Processors.--The Committee encourages the 
Department, in consultation with the Departments of 
Agriculture, Homeland Security, State, and Commerce, to study 
the workforce needs of seafood processors handling seasonal 
harvests of domestically produced seafood and evaluate whether 
existing temporary worker programs, including the H-2B program, 
adequately meet these needs, and to report to the Committee on 
potential long-term regulatory or statutory solutions. The 
Committee requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification.
    Timely Processing of Labor Certification Applications.--The 
Committee understands that the Secretary has taken steps to 
improve the processing efficiency of the Office of Foreign 
Labor Certification (OFLC). Despite these efforts, OFLC 
processing efficiency remains a concern. The Committee 
encourages the Department to utilize existing authority and 
resources to improve the processing timelines to provide 
certainty to employers that rely on these visa programs. Within 
180 days of enactment, the Department shall provide an update 
to the Committee detailing efforts being taken to improve 
processing timeframes, including the expansion of concurrent 
processing between DOL's labor certification functions and 
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) visa application 
processing to improve interagency coordination between DOL to 
DHS to bolster national security.

One-Stop Career Centers/Labor Market Information

    The Committee provides $42,893,000 for One-Stop Career 
Centers and Labor Market Information.

        ADVANCES TO THE UNEMPLOYMENT TRUST FUND AND OTHER FUNDS

    The Committee recommends such sums as necessary for 
Advances to the Unemployment Trust Fund and Other Funds. The 
funds are made available to accounts authorized under Federal 
and State unemployment insurance laws and the Black Lung 
Disability Trust Fund when the balances in such accounts are 
insufficient.

                         PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $158,433,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       167,290,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       153,433,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        -5,000,000
    Change from budget request........................       -13,857,000
 

    The Committee provides $109,527,000 from the General Fund 
of the Treasury and $43,906,000 from the Employment Security 
Administration Account in the Unemployment Trust Fund. This 
funding reflects the consolidation of Employment Security, 
Apprenticeship Services, and Executive Direction into one 
budget activity.

               VETERANS' EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING SERVICE

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $335,341,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       335,341,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       335,341,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Committee provides $65,500,000 from the General Fund of 
the Treasury and $269,841,000 from the Employment Security 
Administration Account in the Unemployment Trust Fund.
    The Veterans Employment and Training (VETS) program serves 
America's veterans and separating service members by preparing 
them for meaningful careers, providing employment resources and 
expertise, and protecting their employment rights.
    Within the total for VETS, the Committee provides the 
following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jobs for Veterans State Grants....       $185,000,000       $185,000,000
Transition Assistance Program.....         34,379,000         34,379,000
Federal Administration............         47,048,000         47,048,000
Veterans Employment and Training            3,414,000          3,414,000
 Institute........................
Homeless Veterans Reintegration            65,500,000         65,500,000
 Program..........................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Transition Assistance Program (TAP) for separating 
service members and their spouses provides a mandatory one-day 
employment workshop, as well as two 2-day career track 
workshops on employment preparation and vocational training, as 
part of TAP to assist service members' transition to civilian 
employment. TAP Employment Workshops are provided on military 
installations, both domestically and abroad.
    The Committee continues to provide $500,000 to support the 
Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American 
Military Veterans Act of 2017 (HIRE Vets) Medallion program.
    Career-Driven Employment Outcomes.--The Committee 
recognizes the importance of enabling veterans to thrive in 
careers after service. Studies indicate there is lack of 
evidence demonstrating if existing veteran transition programs 
have an effective impact on career outcomes. The Committee 
urges the Department to work with employer-focused 
organizations to develop an outcome-focused, data-driven tool 
to measure the effectiveness of Federal veteran employment 
transition programs on career outcomes to better inform program 
impacts and design best practices to equip veterans with a more 
seamless transition geared toward gainful civilian employment.
    Off-Base Transition Training.--The Committee continues to 
support the implementation of the Off-Base Transition Training 
pilot program and encourages the Department to collaborate with 
the Department of Veterans Affairs to offer resources on 
benefit eligibility.
    Transition Assistance Program.--The Department plays an 
important role in educating veterans about many of their 
benefits through the Transition Assistance Program, including 
providing job assistance training, business ownership courses, 
financial planning resources, and basic understandings of many 
other benefits. Despite these efforts, the Committee is 
concerned with the growing number of veterans and separating 
service members who are unaware of many of the service-
connected benefits that are available to them once they 
transition back to civilian life. The Committee directs the 
Department to include in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification the estimated cost of modifying the Transition 
Assistance Program to include a once-a-year workshop for all 
service members, regardless of their enlistment status.

               Employee Benefits Security Administration


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $191,100,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       181,100,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       181,100,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -10,000,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) 
assures the security of retirement, health, and other 
workplace-related benefits of working Americans.
    Case Status Report.--The Committee directs EBSA to provide 
the report required in section 513(b)(2) of the Employee 
Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 on the status of all 
cases in enforcement status in the most recent fiscal year, 
within 90 days of enactment of this Act.
    Information Sharing.--The Committee understands that the 
DOL Office of Inspector General's fiscal year 2026 workplan 
includes an investigation into allegations of EBSA sharing 
confidential information regarding employee benefit plans and 
their fiduciaries and will follow this ongoing work. The 
Committee also notes congressional oversight activities related 
to this matter.
    Reporting Simplification.--The Committee recognizes the 
importance of retirement plan reporting requirements that are 
transparent and effective. The Committee is aware of concerns 
about the administrative burden of the current two-step filing 
system reporting system. The Committee notes the opportunity 
for the Department, within existing authorities, to evaluate 
potential improvements that address existing complexities while 
maintaining strong oversight.

                  Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation


               PENSION BENEFIT GUARANTY CORPORATION FUND

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $494,264,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       484,264,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       484,264,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -10,000,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    Congress established the Pension Benefit Guaranty 
Corporation (PBGC) to insure Americans' defined-benefit pension 
plans. It operates a single-employer program and a 
multiemployer insurance program, financed through premiums, 
investment income, and assets from terminated plans.
    Delphi Salaried Plan Employees.--In 2009, the PBGC 
terminated certain Delphi pension plans, including the Delphi 
Retirement Program for Salaried Employees. The Committee notes 
that some participants of the Delphi salaried pension plan 
received less than their full benefit. PBGC paid benefits are 
subject to statutory limitations. The Committee also notes 
ongoing legislative efforts to restore full benefits to the 
affected participants.

                         Wage And Hour Division


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $260,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       235,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       235,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -25,000,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Wage and Hour Division (WHD) enforces Federal minimum 
wage, overtime pay, recordkeeping, and child labor requirements 
of the Fair Labor Standards Act. WHD also has enforcement and 
other administrative responsibilities related to the Migrant 
and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act, the Employee 
Polygraph Protection Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, the 
Davis Bacon Act, and the Service Contract Act.
    Employment Opportunities.--The Committee recognizes the 
importance and benefits of employment opportunities, including 
for individuals with intellectual and developmental 
disabilities. The Committee notes the Department's decision to 
withdraw the 2024 proposed rule to phase out 14(c) 
certification under the Fair Labor Standards Act (89 FR 96466). 
The Department is encouraged to take appropriate steps to 
support continued access to employment choice for individuals 
with disabilities who rely on these opportunities.
    Independent Contractors.--The Committee understands strong 
concerns with the Department's final rule issued in January 
2024 titled, ``Employee or Independent Contractor 
Classification Under the Fair Labor Standards Act,'' 
particularly that it would severely restrict economic 
opportunities and employment choice for the millions of 
Americans who work as independent contractors. These 
individuals value the freedom that independent contractor work 
affords, and the Committee understands this flexibility is 
especially important for independent workers who care for 
children or other family members. The Committee understands 
that in February 2026, the Wage and Hour Division issued a 
proposed rule (91 FR 9932) to rescind this 2024 rule and 
reinstate the regulatory framework the Department previously 
adopted in a final rule in January 2021, with some 
modifications. This proposal seeks to simplify and clarify how 
workers are classified while preserving opportunities for 
independent contractors. Due to this ongoing rulemaking 
process, the Committee did not include a general provision 
blocking funding for implementing the 2024 rule that the 
Committee included in prior years.
    Individuals with Disabilities.--The Committee is aware of 
interest in ways to expand employment choice for individuals 
with disabilities and address potential barriers to employment. 
The Committee further understands the interest in ensuring 
adults with disabilities have the freedom to choose their 
preferred employment setting. The Committee notes ongoing 
legislative efforts related to these goals.

                  Office of Labor Management Standards


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $48,515,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        50,115,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        48,515,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................        -1,600,000
 

    The Office of Labor Management Standards administers the 
Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act, which 
establishes safeguards for union democracy and union financial 
integrity, and requires public disclosure reporting by unions, 
union officers, employees of unions, labor relations 
consultants, employers, and surety companies.

             Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $100,976,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................             - - -
Committee Recommendation..............................             - - -
    Change from enacted level.........................      -100,976,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Committee recommendation does not provide funding for 
OFCCP, consistent with the fiscal year 2027 budget request. As 
the budget request notes, Executive Order 14173, issued on 
January 21, 2025, rescinded Executive Order 11246, removing 
much of the basis for the OFCCP's investigative and enforcement 
activity.

                Office of Workers' Compensation Programs


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $122,705,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       110,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       110,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -12,705,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP) 
administers the Federal Employees' Compensation Act, the 
Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act, the Energy 
Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act, and 
the Black Lung Benefits Act. These programs provide eligible 
injured and disabled workers and their survivors with 
compensation, medical benefits, and services including 
rehabilitation, supervision of medical care, and technical and 
advisory counseling.
    The Committee provides $107,823,000 in General Funds from 
the Treasury and $2,177,000 from the Special Fund established 
by the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act.

                            SPECIAL BENEFITS

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $1,298,385,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     1,508,251,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     1,508,251,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      +209,866,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    These funds provide mandatory benefits under the Federal 
Employees' Compensation Act and the Longshore and Harbor 
Workers' Compensation Act.

               SPECIAL BENEFITS FOR DISABLED COAL MINERS

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $30,485,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        27,535,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        27,535,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        -2,950,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    These funds provide mandatory benefits to coal miners 
disabled by black lung disease, to their survivors and eligible 
dependents, and for necessary administrative costs.
    The Committee provides $5,450,000 as an advance 
appropriation for the first quarter of fiscal year 2028. These 
funds ensure uninterrupted payments to beneficiaries.

    ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES, ENERGY EMPLOYEES OCCUPATIONAL ILLNESS 
                           COMPENSATION FUND

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $68,148,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        66,138,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        66,138,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        -2,010,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    These funds provide mandatory benefits to eligible 
employees or survivors of employees of the Department of Energy 
(DOE); its contractors and subcontractors; companies that 
provided beryllium to DOE; atomic weapons employees who suffer 
from a radiation-related cancer, beryllium-related disease, or 
chronic silicosis because of their work in producing or testing 
nuclear weapons; and uranium workers covered under the 
Radiation Exposure Compensation Act.

                    BLACK LUNG DISABILITY TRUST FUND

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $477,295,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       496,011,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       496,011,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +18,716,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Black Lung Disability Trust Fund pays black lung 
compensation, medical and survivor benefits, and administrative 
expenses when no mine operator can be assigned liability for 
such benefits, or when mine employment ceased prior to 1970. 
The Black Lung Disability Trust Fund is financed by an excise 
tax on coal, reimbursements from responsible mine operators, 
and short-term advances from the U.S. Treasury. The Emergency 
Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 authorized a restructuring 
of the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund debt and required that 
annual operating surpluses be used to pay down the debt until 
all remaining obligations are retired.
    Black Lung Benefits Claims Processing.--The Committee is 
concerned with lengthy delays in the processing of Black Lung 
Benefits Act claims, particularly where the mine operator's 
ability to pay the claim is in question. Delays impede access 
to necessary medical care while claims are pending. The 
Committee supports efforts by the Secretary to resolve these 
claims expediently, including through utilizing cloud 
technology, to ensure miners can receive the benefits and 
medical care they need. The Committee requests that the 
Department provide an update on specific actions it has taken 
to improve the speed and quality of black lung claims 
processing as part of the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification.

             Occupational Safety and Health Administration


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $629,309,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       582,381,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       576,900,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -52,409,000
    Change from budget request........................        -5,481,000
 

    The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 
administers the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, by 
setting and enforcing health and safety standards for 
workplaces and conducting training, outreach, education, and 
compliance assistance.
    Within the total for OSHA, the Committee provides the 
following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Safety and Health Standards.......        $18,500,000        $15,700,000
Federal Enforcement...............        243,000,000        210,078,000
Whistleblower Programs............         22,500,000         22,500,000
State Programs....................        120,000,000        120,000,000
Technical Support.................         26,000,000         22,500,000
Federal Compliance Assistance.....         78,262,000         78,262,000
State Consultation Grants.........         63,160,000         63,160,000
Training Grants...................         12,787,000              - - -
Safety and Health Statistics......         35,500,000         35,500,000
Executive Direction and                     9,600,000          9,200,000
 Administration...................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Opioid Use in the Workplace.--The Committee remains 
concerned about the prevalence of opioid use in the workplace 
and acknowledges that many employers may not be prepared to 
address it. The Committee encourages the Department to issue 
voluntary guidance to employers on acquiring and maintaining 
opioid overdose reversal medication, as well as on how 
employers could provide annual training for employees on the 
usage of such medication. The Committee requests an update in 
the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification on such 
activities.
    State Plans.--The Committee is aware the Occupational 
Safety and Health Act allows the Federal cost-share of State 
OSHA programs authorized under section 23(g) of the Act to be 
up to 50 percent, and States cover the other portion. The 
Committee is aware of interest in understanding State support 
for these programs and requests the Department provide 
information summarizing State support for OSHA State programs 
as part of the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification.

                 Mine Safety and Health Administration


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $387,816,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       348,207,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       348,207,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -39,609,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) enforces 
the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 and the Mine 
Improvement and New Emergency Response Act of 2006 in 
underground and surface coalmines and metal/non-metal mines.
    Within the total for MSHA, the Committee provides the 
following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mine Safety and Health Enforcement       $265,774,000       $252,307,000
Standards and Regulations                   5,000,000          3,700,000
 Development......................
Assessments.......................          7,191,000          7,000,000
Educational Policy and Development         39,820,000         25,000,000
Technical Support.................         36,041,000         31,200,000
Program Evaluation and Information         17,990,000         15,500,000
 Resources........................
Program Administration............         16,000,000         13,500,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Allocation of Resources.--The Committee notes significant 
worker dislocations and mine closures because of economic 
conditions throughout the mining industry, and in coal mining 
in particular. The Committee reiterates its support for the 
ongoing effort to bring MSHA enforcement into proportion by 
redistributing resources and activities to the areas where mine 
production is currently occurring and where MSHA identifies the 
most significant safety hazards.
    Respirable Crystalline Silica.--The Committee shares MSHA's 
commitment to ensuring the safety and health of our nation's 
miners. The Committee is aware of concerns regarding the final 
rule, ``Lowering Miners' Exposure to Respirable Crystalline 
Silica and Improving Respiratory Protection,'' published in the 
Federal Register on April 18, 2024 (89 FR 28218). These 
concerns relate to the rule's feasibility, proportionality, and 
practicality; the rule's effects given operational and 
environmental differences between the coal and metal and 
nonmetal mining sectors; and the inclusion of certain 
provisions such as an immediate notification requirement. The 
Committee understands that on April 11, 2025, the Eighth 
Circuit Court of Appeals issued an order indefinitely staying 
the final rule's compliance deadlines for mine operators 
pending judicial review. Additionally, the Committee 
understands that MSHA told the Court that it will conduct 
limited rulemaking to reconsider and seek comment on portions 
of the Silica Rule affected by the litigation. The Committee 
encourages MSHA to incorporate the principles of feasibility, 
proportionality, and practicality as part of its evaluation of 
this rule. Additionally, the Committee urges MSHA to provide 
clear, timely communication to stakeholders regarding this rule 
and respirable crystalline silica protections.

                       Bureau of Labor Statistics


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $708,500,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        68,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       716,500,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        +8,000,000
    Change from budget request........................      +648,500,000
 

    The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is an independent 
national statistical agency that collects, processes, analyzes, 
and disseminates essential economic data to the Congress, 
Federal agencies, State and local governments, businesses, and 
the public. Its principal surveys include the Consumer Price 
Index and the monthly unemployment series. The Committee 
appreciates the potential value of the Administration's 
proposed consolidation of Federal statistical agencies. While 
the Committee regrets that the pace of the budget cycle 
precludes their consideration by the respective authorizing 
committees of jurisdiction, the Committee looks forward to 
continuing to partner with the Administration to identify 
potential efficiencies in the data collection process while 
preserving the high-quality of BLS's statistical analysis.
    The Committee recommendation includes $648,500,000 from the 
General Fund of the Treasury and $68,000,000 from the 
Employment Security Administration Account in the Unemployment 
Trust Fund.
    Within the total for BLS, the Committee provides the 
following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Employment and Unemployment              $252,000,000       $255,000,000
 Statistics.......................
Labor Market Information..........         68,000,000         68,000,000
Prices and Cost of Living.........        248,000,000        253,000,000
Compensation and Working                   91,500,000         91,500,000
 Conditions.......................
Productivity and Technology.......         12,000,000         12,000,000
Executive Direction and Staff              37,000,000         37,000,000
 Services.........................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Declining Statistical Survey Response Rates.--The Committee 
notes a report (Report No. 17-24-001-11-001) issued on October 
26, 2023, by the OIG that describes how the BLS addresses 
challenges posed by declining statistical survey response 
rates, and the impact of the declining response rates on the 
reliability and costs of economic information developed by BLS. 
The OIG recommended, among other things, that BLS, based on the 
nonresponse bias study or imputation assessment, establish, as 
applicable, a threshold at which the Consumer Price Index and 
Import and Export Price Index must publicly disclose the number 
of imputations used. The OIG also recommended that BLS update 
program policies and procedures to include the established 
threshold, and document how to publicly disclose when the 
threshold is met. The Committee remains concerned that BLS may 
not have guidelines that require a sufficient degree of 
transparency and urges that all DOL-OIG recommendations be 
sufficiently addressed.
    Farmworker Labor Shortages.--The Committee is concerned 
about persistent labor shortages affecting agricultural 
producers across the United States and the implications for 
domestic food production, farm viability, and rural economies. 
The Committee requests the Department, in consultation with the 
USDA, to submit a report to the Committees not later than one 
year after enactment of this Act assessing the extent and 
causes of farmworker labor shortages over the past five years, 
disaggregated by calendar year. The report shall include: (1) 
data on agricultural job vacancies, recruitment efforts, and 
unfilled positions across major agricultural sectors and 
regions; (2) trends in the use of the H-2A temporary 
agricultural worker program, including application volumes, 
approvals, denials, processing times, and employer 
participation; (3) analysis of barriers faced by agricultural 
employers in recruiting and retaining domestic and foreign 
farmworkers; (4) impacts of labor shortages on agricultural 
production, crop losses, and supply chain stability; and (5) 
recommendations for administrative or policy changes that could 
help address workforce needs in the agricultural sector while 
ensuring compliance with applicable labor protections.
    Military Spouse Unemployment and Underemployment Data.--The 
Committee recognizes the need for comprehensive data measuring 
employment and underemployment among military spouses over 
time. The Committee encourages BLS, in collaboration with 
Department of Defense, the U.S. Census Bureau, the Internal 
Revenue Service, and any other agency with relevant data to 
assess labor market outcomes and characteristics of military 
spouses with existing survey data, including survey data from 
research entities and nonprofits, and explore options for 
modifying such surveys to capture this population.
    International Labor Comparisons Program.--The Committee 
recognizes the importance that the Bureau of Labor Statistics' 
International Labor Comparisons Program played in analyzing the 
impact of trade and economic policies on U.S. workers, 
especially in the manufacturing sector. The Committee urges the 
BLS, to the extent possible, to collect and analyze 
international data on wages in order to assess the impact of 
trade and other economic policies on U.S. workers.

                 Office of Disability Employment Policy


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $43,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        33,810,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        43,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................        +9,190,000
 

    The Office of Disability Employment Policy provides policy 
guidance and leadership to eliminate employment barriers to 
people with disabilities.

                        Departmental Management


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $363,185,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       329,316,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       242,241,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -120,944,000
    Change from budget request........................       -87,075,000
 

    The Departmental Management appropriation provides funds 
for the staff responsible for Departmental operations, 
management, and policy development.
    The Committee recommendation includes $241,933,000 from the 
General Fund of the Treasury and $308,000 from the Employment 
Security Administration Account in the Unemployment Trust Fund.
    Within the total for Departmental Management, the Committee 
provides the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Program Direction and Support.....        $22,000,000        $22,000,000
Departmental Evaluation...........          4,281,000          4,281,000
Legal Services....................        120,754,000        115,935,000
International Labor Affairs.......        116,125,000              - - -
Administration and Management.....         28,450,000         28,450,000
Adjudication......................         35,000,000         35,000,000
Women's Bureau....................         23,000,000         23,000,000
Civil Rights Activities...........          7,586,000          7,586,000
Chief Financial Officer...........          5,681,000          5,681,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Bill Wide Requirements.--The Committee notes the inclusion 
of a bill wide requirements section of this report. This 
section contains requirements which apply to all agencies 
funded by this Act.
    Benefit Cliffs.--The Committee supports efforts by the 
Department, where appropriate, to provide education, 
information, and support services for individuals and families 
navigating workforce issues to avoid potential financial shocks 
associated with the loss of Federal and state benefits in order 
to allow participants to make informed decisions around 
earnings advancement.
    Bureau of International Labor Affairs.--The Committee 
provides no funding for the Bureau of International Labor 
Affairs.
    Health Care Professions.--The Committee encourages DOL to 
support efforts that connect unemployed workers with 
credentials in health care with employers that have acute 
workforce needs.
    Independent Contractor Status.--The Committee commends the 
Department for rescinding the Biden-era final rule addressing 
the classification of independent contractors. The new proposed 
rule, released February 2026, replaces the old methodology with 
a streamlined analysis, making it easier to properly 
differentiate between employees with the protections under the 
Fair Labor Standards Act and those workers who work as 
independent contractors.
    Investments in Impoverished Areas.--The Committee directs 
DOL to update the report provided to the Committee in response 
to a House Report 117-403 directive to include persistent 
poverty percentages for competitions in fiscal year 2023 once 
those data are available.
    Paid Family and Medical Leave Glossary of Key Terms.--The 
Committee directs the Department to work with mandatory State 
paid family and medical leave programs, multi state employers, 
insurers, and other stakeholders to produce and publicly 
release a glossary of commonly used paid leave terms across 
States to help support clarity, allow for flexibility in 
employer benefit design, and foster potential interstate 
harmonization. The Committee further directs the Department to 
provide this report within 120 days of enactment of this Act.
    Skilled Workforce Education Opportunities for K-12 
Students.--The Committee requests that the Department of Labor 
give special consideration to entities that promote Skilled 
Workforce Education opportunities for K-12 students.
    State Paid Leave Program Workshops.--The Committee directs 
that, of the funds provided under this heading, not to exceed 
$1,000,000 shall be used for the Department to convene one or 
more meetings of the designated focal point for each mandatory 
State paid family and medical leave program, starting within 
120 days of enactment of this Act, to discuss opportunities for 
interstate coordination and interoperability, including 
technological systems for the transmission of information and 
data between these State programs and employers, and to solicit 
input, as appropriate, from multi-state employers, insurers, 
and other stakeholders to inform the Department's understanding 
of needs. Such funds may be used only for necessary expenses 
associated with convening the State programs. The Committee 
further directs the Department to produce and publicly release 
a report within 45 days after each workshop summarizing areas 
of potential collaboration and promising opportunities for 
enhanced interstate coordination and interoperability.
    Support Revitalization of Domestic Shipbuilding Industry.--
The Committee urges the Department to prioritize funding to 
support a technical assistance project with the objective to 
contribute to sustaining the future of the shipbuilding 
industry in the U.S by establishing mechanisms for 
international collaboration to draw on expertise in support of 
expanding the number of skilled U.S. workers and training 
institutions with shipbuilding skills and knowledge.

                      Office of Inspector General


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $97,028,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        87,325,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        97,028,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................        +9,703,000
 

    The Office of Inspector General conducts audits of 
Department programs and operations to determine that they 
comply with the applicable laws and regulations, that they use 
resources effectively, and that they are achieving their 
intended results.
    The recommendation includes $91,187,000 from the General 
Fund of the Treasury and $5,841,000 from the Employment 
Security Administration Account in the Unemployment Trust Fund.

                            IT MODERNIZATION

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................        $6,889,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        18,160,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        11,160,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        +4,271,000
    Change from budget request........................        -7,000,000
 

    Information Technology (IT) Modernization provides a 
dedicated source of funding for Department-wide IT 
modernization projects together with funding through the 
Department's Working Capital Fund.

                           general provisions

    Sec. 101. The Committee continues a provision to prohibit 
the use of Job Corps funds for the salary of an individual at a 
rate more than Executive Level II.

                          (TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

    Sec. 102. The Committee continues a provision regarding 
transfer authority.
    Sec. 103. The Committee continues a prohibition on use of 
funds to purchase goods that are in any part produced by 
indentured children.
    Sec. 104. The Committee continues a provision related to 
grants made from funds available to the Department under the 
American Competitiveness and Workforce Improvement Act.
    Sec. 105. The Committee continues a provision to prohibit 
recipients of funds provided to the Employment and Training 
Administration from using such funds for the compensation of 
any individual at a rate more than Executive Level II.

                          (TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

    Sec. 106. The Committee continues a provision providing the 
Secretary with the authority to transfer funds made available 
to the Employment and Training Administration to Program 
Administration for technical assistance and program integrity 
activities.

                          (TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

    Sec. 107. The Committee modifies a provision allowing up to 
0.75 percent of discretionary appropriations provided in this 
Act for specific Department of Labor agencies to be used by the 
Office of the Chief Evaluation Officer for evaluation purposes 
consistent with the terms and conditions in this Act applicable 
to such office.
    Sec. 108. The Committee continues a provision relating to 
the Fair Labor Standards Act and certain insurance personnel 
conducting post-disaster activity.
    Sec. 109. The Committee continues a provision relating to 
flexibility of H-2B nonimmigrant crossings.
    Sec. 110. The Committee continues a provision related to 
the prevailing wage in the H-2B program.
    Sec. 111. The Committee continues a provision related to 
workers in the H-2B program.
    Sec. 112. The Committee modifies a provision relating to 
surplus property and apprenticeship programs.
    Sec. 113. The Committee continues a provision relating to 
the Treasure Island and Gary Job Corps Centers.
    Sec. 114. The Committee continues a provision relating to 
Job Corps.

                              (RESCISSION)

    Sec. 115. The Committee includes a provision related to the 
Immigration and Nationality Act.
    Sec. 116. The Committee includes new a provision related to 
Adverse Effect Wage Rate determination.
    Sec. 117. The Committee includes a new provision to 
prohibit the use of funds to implement, administer, or enforce 
a final rule issued by the Department of Labor regarding heat 
injury and illness prevention in outdoor and indoor work 
settings.
           TITLE II--DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES


 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026...................      $114,797,239,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027..................        98,602,461,000
Committee Recommendation..........................       110,767,281,000
    Change from enacted level.....................        -4,029,958,000
    Change from budget request....................       +12,164,820,000
 

    The Committee supports the efforts of the Secretary of 
Health and Human Services to reform and reorganize the 
Department. The Secretary has made a number of important 
proposals to reorganize the Department to eliminate silos 
within and among subagencies and make the Department more 
efficient and responsive to the needs of the American people. 
The Committee notes that the authorizing committees of 
jurisdiction have not yet acted on the Department's proposals. 
Accordingly, the Committee's bill and report reflect the 
current organizational structure of the Department. The 
Committee looks forward to working with the authorizing 
committees of jurisdiction as they review the Department's 
request to reorganize. The Committee strongly supports and 
shares the Secretary's goal to end the chronic disease epidemic 
and Make America Healthy Again.

              Health Resources and Services Administration


 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $9,220,107,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     6,880,001,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     8,346,949,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -873,158,000
    Change from budget request........................    +1,466,948,000
 

    The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) 
administers programs that support primary health care in rural, 
tribal, and underserved communities, improve maternal and child 
health, train health professionals to serve in high need areas, 
and provide technical assistance regarding the utilization of 
health resources and facilities.
    The Committee's recommendation for HRSA includes 
$8,070,271,000 in discretionary budget authority and 
$276,678,000 in mandatory funding.

                          PRIMARY HEALTH CARE

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $1,858,772,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     1,877,772,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     1,858,772,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................       -19,000,000
 

Health Centers

    Health centers deliver affordable, accessible, quality, and 
cost-effective primary health care to millions of people across 
the country regardless of their ability to pay. The Health 
Center program supports community health centers, health 
centers for the homeless, health centers for residents of 
public housing, and migrant health centers. HRSA reports that 
in 2024, more than 32.4 million people relied on HRSA-funded 
health centers for care, including one in five rural residents, 
one in eight children, one in 15 seniors, and over 400,000 
veterans.
    Within the amount provided, the Committee includes bill 
language providing up to $120,000,000 for the Federal Tort 
Claims Act program.
    Further, within the total provided for the Health Centers 
program, the Committee includes not less than the following 
amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Addressing Intimate Partner                $2,000,000         $2,000,000
 Violence and Project Catalyst....
Alcee L. Hastings Program for              10,000,000         10,000,000
 Advanced Cancer Screening........
Early Childhood Development.......         30,000,000         30,000,000
Native Hawaiian Health Care.......         27,000,000         27,000,000
    Papa Ola Lokahi (non-add).....         10,000,000         10,000,000
School Based Health Centers.......         55,000,000         55,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Alcee L. Hastings Program for Advanced Cancer Screening in 
Underserved Communities.--The Committee commends HRSA for 
effectively implementing the Alcee L. Hastings Program for 
Advanced Cancer Screening in Underserved Communities. Initial 
funding in fiscal year 2022 supported 11 innovative 
Accelerating Cancer Screening (AxCS) awards for health centers 
to work in collaboration with Comprehensive Cancer Centers to 
improve screening in underserved populations. These grants have 
encouraged collaborative efforts to address screening 
shortfalls in underserved populations, identifying effective 
interventions and facilitating follow-up care. The program's 
initial focus on breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer 
screening was expanded in fiscal year 2023 to include lung 
cancer screening. The Committee encourages HRSA to continue 
supporting screening initiatives in these four areas, to 
support grantees that can expand existing projects focused on a 
single particular cancer to include additional cancers, and to 
support grantees that work to secure appropriate follow up 
screening and access to care for individuals with abnormal 
screening results.
    Autonomous Artificial Intelligence and Diabetic 
Retinopathy.--The Committee encourages HRSA to consider the 
establishment, expansion, or maintenance of efforts at 
Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) to bring specialty 
eyecare services to patients using FDA-cleared autonomous 
artificial intelligence technology that diagnoses diabetic 
retinopathy. HRSA is further encouraged to focus on supporting 
efforts at FQHCs, where a majority of patients with diabetes 
face challenges adhering to medical recommendations to receive 
annual comprehensive diabetic eye exams. HRSA is also 
encouraged to evaluate the utilization of FDA-cleared 
autonomous AI within FQHCs and, in consultation with physician 
specialty professional organizations, promote patient and 
provider education on successful patient referral pathways from 
FQHCs to specialty care.
    Base Grant Adjustments.--The Committee recognizes that 
community health center costs have increased significantly and 
that it has been nearly a decade since the last base grant 
adjustment. The Committee encourages HRSA to consider the needs 
of existing health centers in relation to their current base 
grants when allocating increased health center funding.
    Cancer Mobile Screening.--Early detection of cancer has 
been shown to significantly reduce cancer mortality, especially 
with lung cancer, making treatments more timely, effective, and 
cost efficient. Mobile screening units can increase access to 
preventive care, significantly reducing disparities in 
healthcare access. Mobile units play a crucial role in reaching 
populations that are traditionally underserved, thereby 
enhancing outcomes in communities often neglected in health 
care. The Committee encourages HRSA to support cancer 
screenings, including lung cancer detection, in communities 
with a demonstrated need, including rural, tribal, and 
underserved populations, with an emphasis on projects most 
likely to impact patient mortality and address screening gaps 
for high-risk individuals. The Committee requests an update on 
this topic in the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification.
    Early Childhood Development.--The Committee includes 
funding for HRSA to support the availability of early childhood 
development specialists in community health centers. The 
Committee recognizes the critical role these specialists play 
in improving child health through statewide systems of 
developmental screening, early identification, and timely 
intervention. The Committee urges HRSA to build upon this work 
in States with high levels of childhood poverty and significant 
health disparities, and to provide robust training and 
technical assistance to support effective implementation in 
these centers.
    Food Access in Community Health Centers.--The Committee 
commends the work of health centers that have partnered with 
emergency feeding operations to provide access to food and 
encourages the expansion of these partnerships to provide food 
to underserved populations.
    Native Hawaiian Health Care.--The Committee continues 
$27,000,000 for the Native Hawaiian Health Care Program. Of the 
total amount appropriated for the Native Hawaiian Health Care 
Program, not less than $10,000,000 shall be provided to Papa 
Ola Lokahi for administrative purposes authorized under 42 
U.S.C. 11706, including expanded research and surveillance 
related to the health status of Native Hawaiians and 
strengthening the capacity of the Native Hawaiian Health Care 
Systems.
    Partnerships With Community Health Centers.--The Committee 
recognizes the importance of community health centers entering 
partnerships that close care gaps in medically underserved 
areas. The Committee urges HRSA to examine how to support 
existing health center partnerships and incentivize more 
collaboration in underserved communities and requests an update 
on this topic in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification.
    School-Based Health Centers.--The Committee continues 
funding for school-based health centers authorized under 
section 330 of the PHS Act (42 U.S.C. 254b).
    Technical Assistance.--The Committee believes funding for 
the training and technical assistance available for health 
centers through national and State cooperative agreements and 
grants is critical to the successful operation and expansion of 
the health centers program. Funds are available within the 
amount provided to enhance technical assistance and training 
activities and further quality improvement initiatives that 
improve health outcomes and continue the development of and 
support for health center-controlled networks so that new and 
existing centers can improve patient access to quality health 
services.
    Testing and Treatment.--The Committee is concerned about 
the continued rise in syphilis infections in the U.S., 
including congenital syphilis, and the impact on underserved 
communities served by FQHCs. The Committee recognizes that 
FQHCs play a critical role in providing services to individuals 
at increased risk for sexually transmitted infections. 
Therefore, the Committee urges HRSA to encourage increased 
testing and treatment for syphilis, including prenatal syphilis 
screening, to prevent congenital syphilis. The Committee 
further urges HRSA to provide technical assistance and 
training, utilizing expertise from outside organizations for 
assistance, to FQHCs on implementation of screening protocols 
and coordination with State and local public health 
departments.
    Testing for Hepatitis C.--The Committee recognizes the 
value of point of care diagnostics for the hepatitis C virus 
and supports efforts by HRSA to adopt practices and policies 
that promote hepatitis C testing. The Committee encourages HRSA 
to ensure that health centers have access to and utilize 
available point of care diagnostic tests to adequately test the 
populations they serve.

Free Clinics Medical Malpractice

    Within the amount provided, the Committee continues bill 
language providing up to $1,000,000 for payment of claims under 
the FTCA to be made available for free clinic health 
professionals as authorized by section 224(o) of the PHS Act. 
This appropriation extends FTCA coverage to medical volunteers 
in free clinics to expand access to healthcare services for 
low-income individuals in medically underserved areas.

                            HEALTH WORKFORCE

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $1,413,776,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       788,020,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     1,438,876,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +25,100,000
    Change from budget request........................      +650,856,000
 

    The Bureau of Health Workforce (BHW) strengthens the health 
care workforce by connecting skilled health care providers to 
communities in need through grant, scholarship, and loan 
repayment programs. These programs are designed to help rural, 
tribal, and underserved communities recruit and retain health 
care providers.
    Education and Training Related to the Care of Menopause.--
The Committee encourages HRSA to support efforts by medical 
schools participating in HRSA health workforce programs to 
provide education and training related to the care of women in 
any of the stages of menopause as part of their curriculum.
    GI Shortages in Rural Communities.--The Committee notes 
that colorectal cancer (CRC) rates are rising, especially in 
younger Americans, with CRC being the leading cancer killer for 
people under the age of 50. Rural communities have severe 
shortages of specialty physicians, including 
gastroenterologists, who serve as the primary source for 
diagnosing CRC. Access to preventative screenings and the 
necessary follow up colonoscopy are critical to detecting and 
preventing colorectal cancer. Therefore, the Committee 
encourages HRSA to study the impact of such workforce shortages 
and make recommendations to address the rising rates of CRC, 
including the need for patients to have access to effective 
screening measures.
    Training Equipment for Health Workforce Education.--
Colleges play a vital role in preparing the next generation of 
the health workforce by equipping students with the knowledge, 
skills, and practical training necessary to meet the evolving 
demands of our nation's healthcare system. This role is 
especially important for those located in or near rural 
communities, Medically Underserved Communities (MUCs), and 
Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs), where developing a 
strong pipeline of well-trained health professionals is 
critical to improving access to care. Investments in training 
equipment such as simulation technology, clinical skills 
laboratories, and other hands-on instructional tools can 
significantly expand a college's ability to prepare students 
for employment in high-need health occupations. Within the 
funds provided for HRSA's Health Workforce programs, the 
Committee encourages HRSA to support colleges seeking to expand 
access to training equipment and instructional technologies 
needed to educate the next generation of health workforce 
professionals. In so doing, the Committee encourages HRSA to 
prioritize institutions offering certificate programs and those 
partnering with medical schools and allied health programs 
located in rural communities, MUCs, and HPSAs. The Committee 
requests an update on this topic and recommendations for any 
legislative changes that may be needed for HRSA to provide such 
support as part of the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification.

National Health Service Corps

    The Committee includes $133,100,000 for the National Health 
Service Corps (NHSC) to support competitive awards to health 
care providers dedicated to working in rural, tribal, and 
underserved areas.
    Tribal Set Aside.--Within the total provided for the NHSC, 
the Committee includes a set aside of not less than 15 percent 
to support awards to participating individuals that provide 
health services in Indian Health Service facilities, tribally 
operated health programs, and Urban Indian Health programs.
    Maternity Care Target Areas (MCTAs).--The Committee 
recognizes HRSA's progress in determining MCTAs in order to 
begin making loan repayment awards to maternal health 
practitioners, such as OB/GYNs and Certified Nurse Midwives, 
who agree to serve in MCTAs. Within the total provided for the 
NHSC, the Committee includes $8,000,000 to support loan 
repayment for maternity care health services in health 
professional shortage areas. The Committee requests an update 
on this topic in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification.

Health Professions Education and Training (Title VII)

    The Committee recommends $518,304,000 for the health 
professions education and training programs authorized under 
title VII of the PHS Act, which is equal to the fiscal year 
2026 enacted level.

Centers of Excellence

    The Committee includes $25,422,000 for the Centers of 
Excellence Program. The Centers of Excellence program provides 
innovative resources and education centers to recruit, train, 
and retain students and faculty at health professions schools.

Health Careers Opportunity Program

    The Committee includes $15,000,000 for the Health Careers 
Opportunity Program (HCOP). The purpose of this grant program 
is to assist students from disadvantaged backgrounds to enter 
and successfully complete health professions schools. National 
HCOP Academies prepare students to meet the admissions 
requirements for the next level of their education and receive 
a health professions degree or certificate.

Faculty Loan Repayment

    The Committee includes $2,310,000 for the Faculty Loan 
Repayment program. This program provides loan repayment to 
health professions graduates from disadvantaged backgrounds who 
serve as faculty at eligible health professions academic 
institutions.

Scholarships for Disadvantaged Students

    The Committee includes $55,014,000 for Scholarships for 
Disadvantaged Students (SDS). The SDS program provides grants 
to health professions and nursing schools to provide 
scholarships to students from disadvantaged backgrounds who 
have financial need.
    Midwifery Training.--Within the total provided for SDS, the 
Committee includes $5,000,000 to support grants awarded for the 
purpose of educating midwives to address the national shortage 
of maternity care providers.

Primary Care Training and Enhancement

    The Committee includes $54,924,000 for Primary Care 
Training and Enhancement (PCTE) programs. These programs 
support the primary care workforce by providing enhanced 
training for future primary care clinicians and faculty and 
promoting primary care practice, particularly in rural and 
underserved areas. The Committee recognizes that patient care 
is frequently provided in a range of community-based settings 
and that providing outpatient training opportunities in 
underserved areas encourages long-term, sustainable physician 
practice in high-need areas. The Committee includes an increase 
of $5,000,000 to support medical school partnerships with 
FQHCs, Rural Health Clinics, or other healthcare facilities 
located in medically underserved communities to increase 
medical school clinical rotations in rural and underserved 
areas.

Oral Health Training

    The Committee provides $46,673,000 for Training in Oral 
Health Care programs, which includes not less than $14,000,000 
for General Dentistry Programs, not less than $14,000,000 for 
Pediatric Dentistry Programs, and not less than $15,000,000 for 
State Oral Health Workforce grants. The Committee directs HRSA 
to provide funding for section 748 post-doctoral training 
grants, predoctoral dental grants, and dental faculty loan 
repayment program (DFLRP) grants. The Committee continues to 
support awards with a preference for pediatric dentistry 
faculty supervising dental students or residents and providing 
clinical services in dental schools, hospitals, and community-
based affiliated sites.

Pediatric Specialty Loan Repayment Program

    The Committee includes $10,000,000 for the Pediatric 
Specialty Loan Repayment program. This program supports loan 
repayment for medical providers in exchange for a three-year 
commitment to be employed or participate in a fellowship or 
residency program in an underserved community.

Area Health Education Centers

    The Committee includes $47,000,000 for the Area Health 
Education Centers (AHEC) program. This program links university 
health science centers with community health service delivery 
systems to provide education and training networks that 
recruit, train, and help retain health professionals committed 
to underserved populations.
    Simulation-Based Clinical Education.--Within the total 
provided for AHEC, the Committee includes $3,000,000 for AHEC 
recipients to provide experiential learning opportunities 
through simulation labs designed to educate and train health 
care professionals serving rural, medically underserved 
communities. HRSA shall include as an allowable use the 
purchase of simulation training equipment.

Geriatrics Programs

    The Committee includes $48,245,000 for the Geriatrics 
Workforce Enhancement Program and the Geriatrics Academic 
Career Awards Program. These programs support training to 
integrate geriatrics into primary care delivery and develop 
academic-primary care-community based partnerships to address 
gaps in health care for older adults.

Mental and Behavioral Health Programs

    The Committee consolidates activities previously funded 
under Mental and Behavioral Health programs into Behavioral 
Health Workforce Education and Training (BHWET).

Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training

    The Committee includes $159,053,000 for the BHWET program. 
This program establishes and expands internships or field 
placement programs in behavioral health, serving populations in 
rural and medically underserved areas.
    Within the total provided for BHWET, the Committee includes 
not less than the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Graduate Psychology Education.....        $25,000,000        $25,000,000
Mental and Substance Use Disorder          34,700,000         34,700,000
 Workforce Training Demonstration.
    Addiction Medicine Fellowship          25,000,000         25,000,000
     (non-add)....................
Peer Support......................         15,000,000         16,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Graduate Psychology Education.--The interprofessional 
Graduate Psychology Education program increases the number of 
health service psychologists trained to provide integrated 
services to high-need, underserved populations in rural and 
urban communities. The Committee notes data from CDC 
demonstrating a rise in mental health issues for youth and 
adolescents and urges HRSA to strengthen investments in the 
training of health service psychologists to help address this 
population.
    Mental and Substance Use Disorder Workforce Training 
Demonstration.--This program makes grants to institutions, 
including but not limited to medical schools and FQHCs, to 
support training for medical residents and fellows in 
psychiatry and addiction medicine, as well as nurse 
practitioners, physician assistants, health service 
psychologists, counselors, nurses, and social workers trained 
to provide mental health and substance use disorder services in 
underserved and rural community-based settings, including such 
settings that serve pediatric populations, as authorized under 
section 760 of the PHS Act.
    The Addiction Medicine Fellowship program provides 
fellowships to train addiction medicine physicians and 
addiction psychiatrists who work in underserved, community-
based settings that integrate primary care with mental health 
disorder and SUD prevention and treatment services. One major 
cause of the existing treatment gap is that physicians in 
traditional medical settings lack the necessary training and 
overall confidence to provide comprehensive assessments of 
adolescents with SUD and subsequent evidence-based treatment. 
The fellowship opportunities funded by this program provide 
advanced training opportunities to a wide range of specialists, 
including those in family medicine, internal medicine, 
psychiatry, and emergency medicine.
    Peer Support.--The Committee recognizes the value of peer 
support programming in improving mental health outcomes and 
addressing existing provider shortages. As the Committee aims 
to ensure funds are allocated to the areas of highest need, the 
Committee directs HRSA to collect data on the portion of peer 
support program funds allocated to designated health 
professional shortage areas in fiscal year 2026, including the 
number of applicants and amount of awarded funds by State, and 
submit this data to the Committees no later than 60 days after 
the conclusion of fiscal year 2026.

Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Recovery (STAR) Loan 
        Repayment Program

    The Committee includes $40,000,000 for this program. This 
program addresses shortages in the SUD workforce by providing 
for the repayment of education loans for individuals working in 
a full-time SUD treatment job that involves direct patient care 
in either a mental health HPSA or a county where the overdose 
death rate exceeds the national average.

National Center for Health Workforce Analysis

    The Committee includes $5,663,000 for the National Center 
for Health Workforce Analysis (NCHWA). NCHWA is the primary 
Federal entity that collects, analyzes, and reports on data and 
information regarding the U.S. health workforce. NCHWA also 
evaluates the effectiveness of HRSA's workforce investment 
programs. The Committee commends NCHWA for the technical 
assistance it provides to Congress to assist in the formulation 
of health workforce policy.

Public Health and Preventive Medicine Training Programs

    The Committee includes $9,000,000 for the Preventive 
Medicine Residency program. This program provides awards for 
residents to obtain enhanced experiential activities with a 
focus on residents having longitudinal clinical rotations in 
FQHCs in rural or medically underserved communities.
    Consistent with the fiscal year 2027 budget request, the 
Committee does not prioritize available funding for the Public 
Health Training Centers program.

Nursing Workforce Development (Title VIII)

    The Committee recommends $307,472,000 for the Nursing 
Workforce Development programs authorized under title VIII of 
the PHS Act, which is $2,000,000 above the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level.
    Expanding Access to Nursing Education.--The Committee 
remains deeply concerned about persistent workforce shortages 
across the healthcare sector, particularly within the nursing 
profession. Between 2021 and 2022, the total supply of nurses 
declined by more than 100,000. In 2022, over 25 percent of 
registered nurses reported plans to leave the profession or 
retire within five years, and by 2038, approximately one-third 
of the nursing workforce is expected to reach retirement age. 
These trends are expected to intensify, with recent projections 
estimating that more than 275,000 additional nurses will be 
needed between 2020 and 2030 to meet national demand. At the 
same time, nursing schools nationwide face significant 
challenges in expanding capacity to address this growing need. 
Persistent shortages of qualified faculty, limited classroom 
space, and insufficient clinical training sites continue to 
restrict program capacity, preventing many schools from 
admitting otherwise qualified applicants. The Committee 
strongly supports efforts to expand access to high-quality 
educational opportunities at accredited nursing schools to 
ensure that qualified applicants can enter the profession and 
help meet the nation's growing demand for nursing 
professionals.
    Nursing Faculty Shortage Reduction.--The Committee 
recognizes the critical role nurse faculty play in the 
development of a highly qualified nursing workforce. The 
Committee is concerned about the persistent and worsening nurse 
faculty shortage impacting nursing schools' ability to meet 
current and projected nursing workforce demand. According to 
the American Association of Colleges of Nursing's ``Survey on 
Vacant Faculty Positions for Academic Year 2025--2026'', the 
national nurse faculty vacancy rate is 7.2 percent. The 
Committee urges HRSA to prioritize support for the recruitment 
and retention of nurse faculty within the Title VIII Nursing 
Workforce Development programs as a key means of supporting our 
nation's nursing workforce.

Advanced Nursing Education and Nurse Practitioner Optional 
        Fellowship Program

    The Committee includes $89,581,000 for the Advanced Nursing 
Education Workforce (ANEW) program and an additional $8,000,000 
for the Nurse Practitioner Optional Fellowship program within 
ANEW. The ANEW program supports traineeships and faculty and 
curriculum development to increase the number of qualified 
nurses in the primary care workforce.
    Certified Nurse Midwives.--The Committee continues 
$8,000,000 for Certified Nurse Midwives within the total 
provided for Advanced Nursing Education.
    Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE).--The Committee 
continues $15,000,000 within the total provided for Advanced 
Nursing Education for this activity. The Committee urges HRSA 
to prioritize rural, tribal, and underserved communities, and 
urban areas without full-time coverage for this program. The 
Committee recognizes the disproportionately high rates of 
sexual violence, domestic violence, and intimate partner 
violence within AI/AN communities.
    Nurse Practitioner Optional Fellowship Program.--The 
funding provided for this activity supports grants within the 
Advanced Nursing Education Nurse Practitioner Residency and 
Fellowship program to establish, expand, or maintain optional 
community-based nurse practitioner fellowship programs with a 
preference for those in FQHCs, for practicing postgraduate 
nurse practitioners in primary care or behavioral health.

Nurse Education, Practice, Quality, and Retention

    The Committee includes $68,756,000 for the Nurse Education, 
Practice, Quality, and Retention (NEPQR) programs. These 
programs support academic, service, and continuing education 
projects to enhance nursing education, improve the quality of 
care, increase nurse retention, and strengthen the nursing 
workforce.
    Experiential Learning.--Within the total provided for 
NEPQR, the Committee continues not less than $10,750,000 for 
grants to enhance nurse education through the expansion of 
experiential learning opportunities. The Committee directs HRSA 
to ensure that these grants include as an allowable use the 
purchase of simulation training equipment.

Nursing Workforce Diversity

    Consistent with the fiscal year 2027 budget request, the 
Committee does not recommend funding for this program.

Nurse Corps Scholarship and Loan Repayment

    The Committee includes $112,635,000 for Nurse Corps. This 
program supports scholarships and loan repayment assistance for 
nurses and nursing students committed to working in communities 
with inadequate access to care.
    Long-Term Care Workforce.--The Committee notes a critical 
need in workforce development for Registered Nurses, 
particularly those RNs who serve in the long-term care 
workforce. The Committee directs HRSA to allocate not less than 
5 percent of the funds provided for this program to establish 
and support a Nurse Corps pathway for RNs who commit to 
practice in skilled nursing facilities, assisted living 
communities, and other long-term care settings.

Nurse Faculty Loan Program

    The Committee includes $28,500,000 for Nurse Faculty Loan 
Repayment to expand the number of qualified nursing faculty 
nationwide by providing low interest loans for individuals 
studying to be nurse faculty and loan cancellation for those 
who then go on to work as faculty.

Children's Hospitals Graduate Medical Education

    The Committee includes $400,000,000 for the Children's 
Hospitals Graduate Medical Education (GME) program. This 
program helps eligible hospitals maintain GME programs, which 
support the training of residents to care for the pediatric 
population and enhance the supply of primary care and pediatric 
medical and surgical subspecialties. The program trains over 
half of all general pediatric residents and pediatric 
subspecialty residents and fellows.

Medical Student Education

    The Committee includes $80,000,000 for the Medical Student 
Education (MSE) program to support colleges of medicine at 
public universities located in the top quartile of States 
projected to have a primary care provider shortage. The 
Committee directs HRSA to give priority to applications from 
academic institutions located in States with the greatest 
number of Federally recognized Tribes. The Committee also 
directs HRSA to give priority to applications from public 
universities with a demonstrated public-private partnership.

National Practitioner Data Bank

    The Committee includes $43,000,000 for the National 
Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB). As mandated by the Health Care 
Quality Improvement Act (Public Law 99-660), the NPDB is 
financed by the collection of user fees. The NPDB collects 
certain adverse information, medical malpractice payment 
history, and information related to healthcare fraud and abuse. 
The data bank is available to healthcare agencies and 
organizations that make licensing and employment decisions.

                       MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $1,181,680,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       922,729,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     1,060,184,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -121,496,000
    Change from budget request........................      +137,455,000
 

    The Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB) strengthens 
public health systems to meet the needs of America's mothers, 
children, and their families. MCHB reaches approximately 59 
million pregnant mothers, infants, and children, including 
children with special health care needs.

Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant

    The Committee includes $604,584,000 for the Maternal and 
Child Health (MCH) Services Block Grant. States use these funds 
to improve access to care for mothers, children, and their 
families; reduce infant mortality; provide pre- and post-natal 
care; support screening and health assessments for children; 
and provide systems of care for children with special health 
care needs.
    Community Integrated Service Systems.--Within the total 
provided, the Committee includes $10,276,000 for community 
integrated service systems. These grants help States and 
communities build a comprehensive, integrated system of care to 
improve access and outcomes for all children, including 
children with special health care needs.
    Crisis Nurseries.--Maternal mortality and severe maternal 
morbidity are more likely to occur in the postpartum period 
with close to 70 percent of women experiencing a moderate to 
major complication. The Committee notes that crisis nurseries 
can be a lifeline for the nation's most vulnerable families to 
support maternal and infant health. Crisis nurseries provide a 
vital family preservation service to keep families together 
during a crisis. The Committee encourages HRSA to look for 
opportunities within its maternal and child health programs to 
support children and mothers in need of emergency childcare and 
direct care services for infants and children when a parent 
experiences a crisis. The Committee further notes that the 
Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant is a source of 
flexible funding that States can use to support crisis 
nurseries when that aligns with State-identified priority 
needs.
    Self-Measured Blood Pressure Monitoring.--The Committee is 
pleased by the successes from the blood pressure monitoring 
pilot at HRSA, including the early identification of 
preeclampsia in a number of participants. The Committee would 
like more States to benefit from this pilot project and asks 
HRSA to coordinate and to expand the self-measured blood 
pressure monitoring pilot, which works to identify preeclampsia 
at an earlier stage in high-risk communities by distributing 
blood pressure cuffs and patient information.

MCH Block Grant--Special Projects of Regional and National 
        Significance

    The Committee includes $224,116,000 for Special Projects of 
Regional and National Significance (SPRANS). Within the total 
provided for SPRANS, the Committee includes not less than the 
following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Committee
                   Budget Activity                       Recommendation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Early Childhood Development Grants...................        $10,000,000
Epilepsy.............................................          3,642,000
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome...............................          1,000,000
Fetal Infant and Child Death Review..................          5,000,000
Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia................          3,000,000
Infant-Toddler Court Teams...........................         21,000,000
Maternal Produce Prescriptions.......................         15,000,000
Minority Serving Institutions........................         10,000,000
Newborn Essentials Support Toolkits..................          5,000,000
Oral Health..........................................          5,250,000
Pediatric Pulmonary Centers..........................          2,100,000
Prenatally and Postnatally Diagnosed Conditions......          5,000,000
Regional Pediatric Prevention Network................         25,000,000
Sickle Cell Disease..................................          7,000,000
State Maternal Health Innovation Grants..............         55,000,000
Stillbirth Prevention................................          1,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Early Childhood Development Grants.--The Committee includes 
funding for the placement of early childhood development 
specialists in pediatric settings serving a high percentage of 
Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) 
patients. The Committee urges HRSA to provide robust training 
and technical assistance to support the effective integration 
and placement of early childhood development specialists in 
pediatric settings serving high Medicaid and CHIP populations.
    Hemophilia Programs.--HRSA's hemophilia program provides 
comprehensive care for blood disorder patients, including 
services such as social work and physical therapy that are not 
covered by insurance. Within the funding provided for SPRANS, 
the Committee supports funding for a coordinating center to 
disseminate best practices and advance high-quality care.
    Infant Toddler Court Teams.--The Committee includes funding 
to support research-based Infant-Toddler Court Teams that 
improve outcomes for infants, toddlers, and their families. 
This funding will sustain training and technical assistance for 
States, Tribes, and communities to implement, expand, or build 
capacity to adopt the Infant Toddler Court Teams approach, 
along with appropriate evaluation activities.
    Maternal Produce Prescriptions.--The Committee includes 
funding for the maternal produce prescription program, which 
supports grants to community-based organizations to develop 
produce prescription interventions for maternal populations at 
risk of poor health outcomes.
    Newborn Essentials Support Toolkits.--The Committee 
provides funding to continue the work of the Newborn Supply Kit 
program at HRSA. The Committee directs HRSA to make contracts, 
grants, or enter into cooperative agreements with entities to 
procure supply kits for new mothers through partnerships with 
local entities such as hospitals, health centers, community-
based organizations, or other organizations serving mothers and 
infants. Such supply kits shall be composed of essential goods 
to help mothers recover from childbirth and care for newborn 
infants such as diapers, wipes, infant thermometers, postpartum 
supplies, breastfeeding supplies, information on the Maternal 
Mental Health Hotline, information on the National 
Breastfeeding Helpline, educational material on breastfeeding 
and nutrition, information about local, State, and national 
community-based programs providing support to postpartum women 
and children, evidence-based education material on the use of 
low-dose aspirin (to address hypertension, preeclampsia, and 
preterm birth), and a blood pressure monitor. For any new 
awards, HRSA shall prioritize implementation of the program 
through targeting medically underserved geographic areas, 
including rural communities, maternal care deserts, tribal 
communities, and communities with the highest maternal 
mortality rates. The Committee further encourages HRSA to 
compile information on local community-based mental health 
supports for new mothers, and to include this information in 
distributed newborn supply kits.
    Oral Health and Primary Care Integration.--Within the total 
provided for oral health within SPRANS, the Committee includes 
$250,000 to continue demonstration projects to increase the 
implementation of oral health and primary care practice 
integration. The projects should model the core clinical oral 
health competencies for non-dental providers that HRSA 
published and initially tested in its 2014 report, 
``Integration of Oral Health and Primary Care Practice.'' The 
Committee encourages the Chief Dental Officer to continue to 
direct the design, monitoring, oversight, and implementation of 
these demonstration projects.
    Pediatric Pulmonary Centers.--The Committee includes 
funding to continue grants for the Pediatric Pulmonary Centers 
program.
    Prenatally and Postnatally Diagnosed Conditions.--The 
Committee includes funding within SPRANS to support activities 
that are generally consistent with activities described in 
section 399T of the PHS Act.
    Regional Pediatric Prevention Network.--The Committee 
includes funding for the regional pediatric prevention network 
consistent with the directives included in House Report 119-
271.
    Stillbirth Prevention Technical Assistance.--Over 20,000 
babies are stillborn in the U.S. every year, and nearly one in 
four stillbirths are preventable. Despite medical advances, the 
Committee is concerned that the rate of stillbirth has remained 
relatively the same over the past 30 years. The Committee is 
encouraged by HRSA's efforts to update its materials and 
guidance to clarify that stillbirth prevention activities are 
an allowable use of funds under the Maternal and Child Health 
Services Block Grant program. The Committee provides $1,000,000 
for HRSA to provide ongoing technical assistance and other 
activities to support States' stillbirth prevention activities, 
including facilitating the dissemination of stillbirth 
screening resources and educational prevention tools to 
integrate into existing care models. The Committee directs HRSA 
to provide a report to the Committee within 180 days of 
enactment of this Act on (1) HRSA's activities to provide 
technical assistance to States on stillbirth prevention, and 
(2) the needs of the agency to carry out this technical 
assistance and other activities to support States' stillbirth 
prevention activities.

Sickle Cell Disease Treatment Demonstration Program

    The Committee includes $8,205,000 for this program. The 
Sickle Cell Disease Treatment Demonstration program helps 
individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD) access quality, 
coordinated, comprehensive care by building comprehensive 
sickle cell disease care teams that extend specialty care from 
centrally based SCD experts in hospitals, clinics, or 
university health centers to the communities where people live.

Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities

    The Committee includes $57,344,000 for Autism and Other 
Developmental Disabilities programs. These programs seek to 
improve the health and well-being of children and adolescents 
with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental 
disabilities and to advance best practices for the early 
identification and treatment of autism and related 
developmental disabilities.
    Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related 
Disabilities.--Within the total provided for Autism and Other 
Developmental Disabilities, the Committee includes not less 
than $38,245,000 for the Leadership Education in 
Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) program to 
allow LEND sites to maintain their capacity to train 
interdisciplinary professionals to screen, diagnose, and 
provide evidence-based interventions to individuals with autism 
spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. The 
LEND program is essential to increasing the number of 
professionals with advanced interdisciplinary training in a 
broad array of professional disciplines to train professionals 
to improve the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of people 
with autism and other developmental disabilities. The funding 
provides the LENDs with support needed to address the critical 
shortage of professionals, increase the number of trainees, 
serve underrepresented communities, and fulfill the expanded 
statutory mandate to serve persons with autism and 
developmental disabilities across the lifespan.

Heritable Disorders in Newborns and Children

    The Committee provides $24,883,000 for the Heritable 
Disorders program. This program assists States to improve and 
expand their newborn screening programs and to promote parental 
and provider education.
    Newborn Screening.--The Committee notes that even with 
nationwide newborn screening, critical gaps remain in our 
ability to systematically and longitudinally track laboratory 
generated, child-level, and system-level health outcomes. 
Efforts to date have not resulted in meaningful, coordinated 
evidence generation at the national level and resource gaps 
remain at the State level. The Committee directs HRSA, in 
coordination with CDC, to conduct an evaluation of newborn 
screening longitudinal data collection and evidence generation. 
Further, the Committee directs HRSA to engage critical 
stakeholders, including public health laboratories, patient 
advocacy organizations, clinical organizations, public health 
organizations, and research organizations to generate national, 
State, and local priorities to build from strengths and 
ameliorate deficiencies identified in the evaluation. Finally, 
HRSA and HHS should designate a mechanism with appropriate 
authority, accountability, and resources to enact the resulting 
recommendations on the Federal and State levels, as recommended 
in the National Academies report on ``Newborn Screening in the 
United States: A Vision for Sustaining and Advancing 
Excellence'' (2025).
    Support Newborn Screening (NBS) for Metachromatic 
Leukodystrophy (MLD).--On March 18, 2024, the FDA approved a 
gene therapy for treatment of children with early-onset 
metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD), and on December 16, 2025, 
HHS added this treatment to the Recommended Uniform Screening 
Panel (RUSP). These children previously had no treatment 
options beyond supportive and end-of-life care, and early 
diagnosis and treatment are critical to survival rates for 
children with MLD. The Committee notes that several States have 
RUSP-alignment policies in place but are lacking the resources 
to support the implementation of screening for this condition. 
Therefore, within the total provided for Heritable Disorders in 
Newborns and Children, the Committee includes $4,000,000 for 
grants to State laboratories to support newborn screening for 
MLD. This funding should be made available to States as 
expeditiously as possible, with a focus on reducing 
administrative burden on States. These grants should be 
provided to States with established processes for adding newly 
listed RUSP conditions to their screening protocols, as well as 
to States intending to be early adopters of newborn screening 
for MLD to ensure quick and effective adoption of this critical 
screening protocol.

Healthy Start

    The Committee notes that mandatory funding available for 
the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting 
(MIECHV) program continues to increase substantially and will 
reach $800,000,000 in fiscal year 2027. The MIECHV program 
supports pregnant women and parents with young children who 
live in communities that face greater risk and barriers to 
achieving positive maternal and child health outcomes. 
Therefore, consistent with the fiscal year 2027 budget request, 
the Committee does not recommend separate discretionary funding 
for this program.

Early Hearing Detection and Intervention

    The Committee includes $18,818,000 for the Early Hearing 
Detection and Intervention program. This program awards grants 
to States and territories to support statewide systems of 
newborn hearing screening and early intervention programs.

Emergency Medical Services for Children

    The Committee includes $24,334,000 for the Emergency 
Medical Services for Children program. Funding is available to 
every State's emergency medical services office to improve the 
quality of emergency care for children and to support research 
on and dissemination of best practices.

Screening and Treatment for Maternal Mental Health and 
        Substance Use Disorders

    The Committee includes $14,500,000 for the Screening and 
Treatment for Maternal Mental Health and Substance Use 
Disorders (MMHSUD) program. Maternal mental health conditions 
impact one in five pregnant and postpartum women and one in 
three high-risk populations including service members, military 
spouses, Native American and rural women. Maternal mental 
health issues are the leading cause of maternal mortality in 
the U.S. and cost the nation $14 billion each year. MMHSUD 
provides grants to States and Tribes to increase access to care 
and to expand the workforce by training health care providers 
to screen, assess, and treat maternal mental health conditions 
and substance use disorders and provide specialized psychiatric 
consultation to providers. The Committee directs HRSA to set 
aside not less than 15 percent of available funding for Tribes 
or tribal organizations. HRSA currently provides no more than 
one grant per State. The Committee directs HRSA to exempt 
Tribes and tribal organizations from the one award per State 
guideline so that Tribes are not required to directly compete 
with their State. The Committee directs HRSA within 180 days of 
the enactment of this Act to release an annual public report 
detailing the most current data on the number of providers 
trained and the number of individuals served by the program, 
and geographical areas in which the services were provided. The 
report shall include information on steps taken to provide 
grants for Tribes and tribal organizations to support maternal 
mental health and substance use disorders in these communities.

Pediatric Mental Health Care Access

    The Committee includes $13,000,000 for the Pediatric Mental 
Health Care Access program. This program supports expanded 
access to behavioral health services in pediatric primary care 
by supporting the development of pediatric mental health care 
telehealth access programs.

Innovation for Maternal Health

    The Committee includes $20,300,000 for the Innovation for 
Maternal Health program. The Innovation for Maternal Health 
program supports the establishment or continuation of a program 
to identify, develop, or disseminate best practices to improve 
maternal health care quality and outcomes, improve maternal and 
infant health, and eliminate preventable maternal mortality and 
severe maternal morbidity, among other activities. This funding 
supports capacity building, technical assistance, and continued 
implementation of the Alliance for Innovation on Maternal 
Health Program's patient safety bundles to all States, 
territories, and tribal organizations. Patient safety bundles 
are a set of targeted and evidence-informed best practices 
that, when implemented, improve patient outcomes and reduce 
maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity. The Committee 
directs HRSA to reserve at least 10 percent of available 
funding for Tribes and tribal organizations.

Maternal Mental Health Hotline

    The Committee includes $10,000,000 for the Maternal Mental 
Health Hotline. Maternal mental health conditions impact one in 
five pregnant and postpartum women and one in three high-risk 
populations including service members, military spouses, and 
Native American and rural women. The Hotline provides 24-hour 
voice, text, and chat support services for pregnant and 
postpartum mothers. Since its launch on Mother's Day in 2022, 
the Hotline has served over 100,000 women and families across 
the U.S. with average response times of less than 30 seconds. 
The most common reasons for calling include feeling 
overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious. The Committee commends 
HRSA's efforts to increase public awareness of the Hotline, 
which has led to a 35 percent increase in calls from 2024 and a 
record 3,800 calls and texts in August 2025. The Committee 
directs HRSA to continue public awareness activities and to 
meet the corresponding increased demand for Hotline services. 
The activities shall focus on increasing public awareness of 
the Hotline across the U.S. and its territories by proactively 
reaching out to at-risk communities through both digital and 
physical advertising targeted to areas regularly utilized by 
new parents, such as baby changing stations, lactation pods, 
pediatric offices, and childcare centers. Public awareness 
activities shall include public and private partnerships with 
companies and organizations serving individuals who would 
benefit from information about the Hotline. The Committee 
directs HRSA, within 180 days of the enactment of this Act, to 
release an annual public report detailing: (1) how many 
contacts the Hotline has received; (2) the reason for 
contacting the Hotline; (3) the geographical area of the 
caller; (4) whether the caller was a service member, veteran, 
or military spouse; (5) the method of contact used by the 
individual such as call, text, or chat; and (6) public 
awareness campaign activities undertaken by HHS and HRSA to 
promote the Hotline.

Poison Control Centers

    The Committee includes $30,100,000 for Poison Control 
Centers. The Poison Control Centers program supports a national 
network of centers that prevent and treat poison exposures by 
providing cost effective, quality health care advice to the 
public and health care providers.

Integrated Services for Pregnant and Postpartum Women

    The Committee includes $10,000,000 for integrated services 
for pregnant and postpartum women. The Integrated Services for 
Pregnant and Postpartum Women program helps States, Tribes, and 
tribal organizations establish or operate innovative programs 
to effectively deliver care for pregnant and postpartum women 
while considering their social, behavioral, and health care 
needs. The Committee encourages HRSA to work to expand grants 
to Tribes and tribal organizations to provide integrated health 
service models for maternal support and care within tribal 
health systems.

                      RYAN WHITE HIV/AIDS PROGRAM

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $2,571,041,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     2,497,535,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     2,346,155,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -224,886,000
    Change from budget request........................      -151,380,000
 

    The Ryan White HIV/AIDS program funds activities to address 
the care and treatment of persons living with HIV/AIDS who need 
assistance to obtain treatment. The program provides grants to 
States and eligible metropolitan areas to improve the quality, 
availability, and coordination of health care and support 
services, including access to HIV-related medications; grants 
to service providers for early intervention outpatient 
services; grants to organizations to provide care to HIV 
infected women, infants, children, and youth; and grants to 
organizations to support the education and training of health 
care providers.
    Within the total provided for the Ryan White HIV/AIDS 
program, the Committee includes the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Emergency Relief Grants (Part A)..       $680,752,000       $680,752,000
Grants to States (Part B).........      1,364,878,000      1,364,878,000
    AIDS Drug Assistance Program          900,313,000        900,313,000
     (non-add)....................
Early Intervention Services (Part         208,970,000        208,970,000
 C)...............................
Women, Infants, Children and Youth         77,935,000         77,935,000
 (Part D).........................
Dental Programs (Part F)..........         13,620,000         13,620,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                             HEALTH SYSTEMS

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $127,009,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       115,887,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       126,887,000
    Change from enacted level.........................          -122,000
    Change from budget request........................       +11,000,000
 

    The Health Systems Bureau supports national activities that 
enhance health care delivery in the U.S., including maintaining 
a national system to allocate and distribute donor organs to 
individuals awaiting transplant; building an inventory of cord 
blood units; and maintaining a national system for the 
recruitment of bone marrow donors.

Organ Transplantation

    The Committee includes $59,049,000 for the Organ 
Transplantation program.
    Living Organ Donation Reimbursement Program.--Within the 
funding provided for Organ Transplantation, the Committee 
continues the fiscal year 2026 funding level for the living 
organ donation reimbursement program. This program reduces 
financial disincentives to living organ donation by providing 
reimbursement to living organ donors for many expenses related 
to donating an organ (e.g., travel, lost wages, and child 
care). Research suggests that many of these donors could not 
have donated without this program.
    OPTN Next Generation Technology.--The Committee supports 
HRSA's OPTN Modernization Initiative, with particular interest 
in the efforts to develop and implement a technology solution 
to fully modernize the OPTN so more individuals can be matched 
with life-saving organs. The Committee understands that because 
of outdated technology and a lack of dynamic algorithms, the 
current matching system is inefficient, and therefore critical 
time is lost in the effort to identify and match an available 
organ to the most appropriate candidate, causing some organs to 
go unused. The Committee urges HRSA to prioritize the 
development of a modern, dynamic organ candidate matching 
technology system that better serves donor families and 
recipients, performs efficiently, allows for timely, systematic 
updates in allocation policy, and supports clinical innovation. 
The Committee requests an update on these efforts in the fiscal 
year 2028 congressional justification.
    Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network Modernization 
Initiative.--The Committee continues the directive included 
under this heading in House Report 119-271.

National Cord Blood Inventory

    The Committee includes $19,266,000 for the National Cord 
Blood Inventory (NCBI) program. The NCBI program supports cord 
blood banks to build a genetically and ethnically diverse 
inventory of the highest quality cord blood units for 
transplantation.

C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation

    The Committee includes $33,009,000 for the C.W. Bill Young 
Cell Transplantation program. This program supports 
coordinating the procurement of bone marrow and umbilical cord 
blood units for transplantation.

Hansen's Disease Program

    The Committee includes $13,706,000 for the National 
Hansen's Disease Program (NHDP) and $1,857,000 for payments to 
Hawaii for treatment of Hansen's disease. The NHDP supports 
outpatient clinical care, as well as outreach, education, and 
research activities through its facilities in Baton Rouge, 
Louisiana and network of 14 outpatient clinics across the 
continental United States and Puerto Rico.

                              RURAL HEALTH

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $417,907,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       316,130,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       575,765,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      +157,858,000
    Change from budget request........................      +259,635,000
 

    The Federal Office of Rural Health Policy's (FORHP) 
programs provide funding to improve access, quality, and 
coordination of care in rural communities; for research on 
rural health issues; for technical assistance and recruitment 
of health care providers; for screening activities for 
individuals affected by the mining, transport, and processing 
of uranium; and for the outreach and treatment of coal miners 
and others with occupation-related respiratory and pulmonary 
impairments.
    Community Paramedicine.--The Committee supports community 
paramedicine as an innovative healthcare delivery model that 
enables paramedics to provide non-emergency, coordinated, 
mobile, and preventive care within their communities. These 
programs are particularly valuable in rural areas, where 
millions of Americans face significant barriers to accessing 
timely health care due to distance and provider shortages. The 
Committee directs HRSA to submit a report to the Committee 
within one year of enactment of this Act assessing the 
effectiveness of community paramedicine programs and evaluating 
how a Congressionally authorized grant program could support 
the expansion of these programs and improve health outcomes in 
underserved communities.
    Financial Stability of Rural Hospitals.--The Committee is 
concerned that rural hospitals face greater challenges 
maintaining financial stability than non-rural hospitals. The 
Committee directs GAO, to the extent data are available and 
reliable, to examine operating margins or rural and non-rural 
hospitals and the relative contribution of Medicare, Medicaid, 
and other payers to those margins. The study should also assess 
barriers to financial stability, particularly for rural 
hospitals. The Committee directs GAO to provide a preliminary 
briefing to the Committees on Appropriations of the House of 
Representatives and the Senate no later than 12 months after 
enactment of this Act, with a report to follow.
    Increasing Autism Providers in Rural Areas.--The Committee 
encourages HHS to identify opportunities to increase the number 
of Board-Certified Behavior Analysts available to serve autism 
centers in rural areas, providing Applied Behavioral Analysis 
Therapy. Board-Certified Behavioral Analysts are important to 
improving communication, social, and daily living skills in 
individuals with autism. The Committee directs HHS to provide a 
report to the Committees within 180 days of enactment of this 
Act on any opportunities HHS has identified and steps HHS has 
taken to ensure Board-Certified Behavior Analysts are included 
in existing programs to the greatest extent permitted by law.
    Rural Healthcare.--While current spending for all rural 
health discretionary programs is relatively small, it plays a 
critical role in solidifying the fragile healthcare 
infrastructure in rural communities. The Committee supports 
programs seeking to address the severe health care crisis 
escalating in rural America and prevent additional rural 
hospital closures. Health care workforce shortages continue to 
plague rural communities, and while health care innovations, 
such as telehealth technologies, show promise in rural areas, 
the Committee believes that action must be taken to address the 
workforce shortages in rural communities. Therefore, the 
Committee urges the Secretary to implement programs and 
policies to improve rural health outcomes, strengthen care 
delivery, and address the immediate issues facing rural 
communities.

Rural Health Outreach Programs

    The Committee includes $120,000,000 for rural health 
outreach programs. These programs support projects that 
demonstrate new and innovative modes of outreach in rural 
areas, such as integration and coordination of health services.
    Within the total provided for Rural Health Outreach 
Programs, the Committee includes not less than the following 
amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Appalachian Region Healthcare             $2,500,000         $2,500,000
 Support Program..................
Delta States......................         31,000,000         34,000,000
    Delta States Rural Development         12,000,000         15,000,000
     Network Grants (non-add).....
    Delta Region Maternal Care              2,250,000          2,250,000
     Coordination Program (non-
     add).........................
    Delta Region Community Health          15,000,000         15,000,000
     Systems Development Program
     (non-add)....................
Rural Maternity and Obstetrics             15,000,000         15,000,000
 Management Strategies............
Rural Northern Border Region                5,000,000          5,000,000
 Healthcare Support Program.......
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Delta States.--These programs seek to strengthen healthcare 
delivery in rural areas of the Delta region. The Delta States 
region consists of Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, 
Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, and Tennessee. Within the 
total for the Delta Region Community Health Systems Development 
Program, the Committee includes funding for the Delta Health 
Systems Implementation Program.
    Delta Rural Health Innovation Demonstration Program.--The 
Committee recognizes the persistent health disparities 
affecting communities across the Mississippi River Delta 
region, including high rates of chronic disease, food 
insecurity, and shortages of healthcare professionals. The 
Committee provides a $3,000,000 increase within the Delta 
States Rural Development Network Grants program for HRSA to 
support a Delta Rural Health Innovation Demonstration Program 
to test innovative approaches to improving health outcomes in 
rural communities. The Committee encourages HRSA to partner 
with an institution of higher education located within the 
Mississippi River Delta region that maintains comprehensive 
health sciences programs, including pharmacy, nursing, and 
allied health education, and preexisting partnerships with 
osteopathic medical training programs. The Committee also 
encourages HRSA to support demonstration projects that 
integrate Food is Medicine interventions, including produce 
prescriptions, medically tailored meals, and culinary medicine 
education, as strategies to address diet-related chronic 
disease and improve health outcomes in rural communities.
    Mobile Integrated Health Pilot Project.--The Committee 
encourages HRSA to make funding available to allow skilled 
nursing facilities or post-acute care facilities with high re-
admittance rates to conduct a pilot program using 
professionally administered diagnostic mobile device units 
(MDUs). Such MDUs often include equipment used in emergency 
rooms and triage units capable of connecting from the point of 
care to a physician, providing electronic medical records, and 
sharing real time diagnostics used to determine the severity of 
an incident, illness, or injury. The Committee requests an 
analysis of the potential for such a pilot program in the 
fiscal year 2028 congressional justification.
    Rural Maternity and Obstetrics Management Strategies.--The 
Committee includes funding for rural maternity and obstetrics 
management strategies (RMOMS). RMOMS supports grants to improve 
access to and continuity of maternal and obstetrics care in 
rural communities by increasing the delivery of and access to 
preconception, pregnancy, labor and delivery, and postpartum 
services, as well as developing sustainable financing models 
for the provision of maternal and obstetrics care.

Rural Health Policy Development

    The Committee includes $14,076,000 for Rural Health Policy 
Development. Funding supports FORHP's activities to analyze, 
advise the Secretary, and provide information to the public 
regarding issues that affect the availability, access to, and 
quality of health care in rural areas.
    Rural Health Research Center Program.--The Rural Health 
Research Center Program funds publicly available and policy 
relevant research on rural health to assist providers and 
Federal, State, and local governments in addressing challenges 
faced by rural communities. Access to health services in rural 
areas is under extreme stress with patients forced to travel 
extended distances for even basic health care, while more than 
30 percent of rural hospitals are at risk of closing. 
Additional research is needed to inform solutions on the 
significant and pervasive challenges faced by rural Americans 
in accessing health care related to mental health, drug and 
alcohol use, nutrition and healthy eating, and chronic health 
management, among other critical needs. The Committee 
encourages FORHP to continue funding studies on rural health 
and support policy solutions that improve access to health 
care, health outcomes, and population health.

Rural Hospital Flexibility Grants

    The Committee includes $75,000,000 for Rural Hospital 
Flexibility Grants. These programs help States assist small and 
critical access rural hospitals to remain economically viable 
and provide high-quality care.
    Within the total provided for Rural Hospital Flexibility 
Grants, the Committee includes not less than $5,000,000 for the 
Rural Emergency Hospitals Technical Assistance Program and up 
to $23,442,000 for the Small Rural Hospital Improvement 
Program.

State Offices of Rural Health

    The Committee includes $15,000,000 for State Offices of 
Rural Health. HRSA supports the establishment and operation of 
State offices of rural health to strengthen the rural health 
care delivery system.

Black Lung Clinics

    The Committee includes $12,800,000 for Black Lung Clinics. 
This program funds clinics that treat respiratory and pulmonary 
diseases of active and retired coal miners, steel mill workers, 
agricultural workers, and others with occupationally related 
respiratory and pulmonary impairments.

Radiation Exposure Screening and Education Program

    The Committee includes $3,889,000 for the radiation 
exposure screening and education program. This program provides 
grants for education, prevention, and early detection of 
radiogenic cancers and diseases resulting from exposure to 
uranium during mining and milling at nuclear test sites.

Rural Communities Overdose Response Program

    The Committee includes $147,000,000 for the Rural 
Communities Overdose Response Program (RCORP).
    Rural Centers of Excellence.--Within the funding provided 
for RCORP, the Committee includes $12,000,000 to continue at 
least three Rural Centers of Excellence (Centers), as 
established by Public Law 115-245 and continued through Public 
Laws 116-260 and 117-103. The Committee recognizes the success 
of the Centers in addressing substance use disorders within 
rural communities through various evidence-based treatment and 
recovery models. The Committee supports HRSA's continued 
investment in the current Centers and encourages HRSA to 
consider how the Centers can expand their outreach into other 
underserved communities.

Rural Residency Planning and Development

    The Committee includes $19,000,000 for the rural residency 
planning and development program. This program funds physician 
residency training programs that support physician workforce 
expansion in rural areas. The Committee commends FORHP for its 
efforts to improve and expand the physician workforce in rural 
areas by developing new, sustainable rural residency programs 
and supports the continuation and expansion of the program to 
develop new rural residency programs, or Rural Track Programs.
    Tribal Track.--Within the total provided for Rural 
Residency Planning and Development, the Committee includes up 
to $5,000,000 to support residency programs administered by 
Tribes or tribal organizations.

Financial and Community Sustainability for At Risk Hospitals

    The Committee includes $20,000,000 for this activity. First 
proposed in fiscal year 2024, this program will target 
technical assistance to rural hospitals severely at risk for 
imminent closure and struggling to maintain health care 
services.

Rural Hospital Stabilization Program

    The Committee includes $30,000,000 for the Rural Hospital 
Stabilization Program. This program provides support to at-risk 
rural hospitals to enhance or expand service lines to retain 
health care services locally and increase service volume and 
revenue that will enhance hospitals' financial viability.
    Sustaining Access to Rural Healthcare.--The Committee notes 
rural hospitals that do not meet all designation criteria for 
critical access often still face the same financial challenges 
as critical access hospitals and receive significantly lower 
reimbursement from CMS. The Committee urges HRSA to focus the 
next grant competition on hospitals in rural areas that share 
similar criteria as critical access hospitals but often fail to 
meet all criteria for designation.

Rural Hospital Provider Assistance Program

    The Committee includes $100,000,000 for the Rural Hospital 
Provider Assistance program. The Committee is concerned that 
low reimbursements for low-wage hospitals prevent them from 
paying higher wages, which in turn keeps them at the low end of 
the wage index, resulting in a downward spiral. The Committee 
supports efforts by the Secretary and the CMS Administrator to 
address this issue through regulatory relief. To supplement 
such efforts, the Committee provides funding for HRSA to 
administer a formula grant program to support rural hospitals 
at the low end of the wage index. By focusing limited resources 
on areas with the greatest demonstrated need, the Committee 
seeks to ensure sustained access to quality health care 
providers for these rural communities.

Rural Tribal Prevention Innovation Program

    The Committee includes $19,000,000 for the Rural Tribal 
Prevention Innovation program proposed in the fiscal year 2027 
budget request. As noted in the budget request for this 
program, tribal communities experience some of the nation's 
most significant gaps in healthcare access and outcomes, 
including the highest rates of severe maternal morbidity and 
mortality, disproportionate burdens of chronic disease, 
geographic isolation, and longstanding shortages in health care 
infrastructure and workforce. Funding for this program will 
support innovative tribal-led and tribal-serving initiatives 
targeting the root causes of chronic disease and maternal 
health challenges.

                            FAMILY PLANNING

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $286,479,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................             - - -
Committee Recommendation..............................             - - -
    Change from enacted level.........................      -286,479,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    Consistent with the fiscal year 2027 budget request, the 
Committee does not recommend funding for the Family Planning 
program. The Family Planning program administers Title X of the 
PHS Act.

                HRSA-WIDE ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAM SUPPORT

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $1,076,181,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        70,050,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       648,432,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -427,749,000
    Change from budget request........................      +578,382,000
 

    This account supports telehealth programs, operation of the 
340B drug pricing program, and the cost of Federal staff and 
related activities to coordinate, direct, and manage the 
programs of HRSA. The budget request level does not reflect 
program management funding requested for the proposed 
Administration for a Healthy America or funding requested under 
CMS for the Office of Pharmacy Affairs.
    Community Project Funding.--The Committee includes 
community project funding as specified in the table at the end 
of this Committee Report. Within 60 days of enactment of this 
Act and quarterly thereafter, the Committee directs HRSA to 
provide a report to the Committee with the information 
described under the heading for Congressionally Directed 
Spending in Senate Report 119-55.
    Oral Health Literacy.--The Committee includes $300,000 to 
continue the development of an oral health awareness and 
education campaign across relevant HRSA bureaus, including 
Primary Health Care, Health Workforce, Maternal and Child 
Health, Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program, and Rural Health. The 
Committee directs HRSA to identify oral health literacy 
strategies that are evidence-based and focused on oral health 
care prevention and education, including prevention of oral 
disease such as early childhood and other caries, periodontal 
disease, and oral cancer. The Committee encourages HRSA to 
ensure that the Chief Dental Officer plays a key role in the 
design, monitoring, oversight, and implementation of this 
project.
    Promoting Health with Faith and Community-Based 
Organizations.--The Committee notes the impact of ongoing 
efforts and local partnerships focused on promoting health 
access and addressing chronic health challenges in underserved 
communities. The Committee encourages HRSA to maintain and 
advance these promising partnerships with additional available 
resources to preserve critical healthcare infrastructure 
providing innovative access through houses of worship and 
community organizations to ensure continued efforts to address 
chronic and preventable illness and related drivers of poor 
health outcomes.
    Tribal Engagement.--HRSA's core mission is to improve 
health outcomes and build the health workforce. Historically, 
HRSA has had low participation by Indian Tribes in several core 
program areas, despite the great tribal need in all of HRSA's 
mission areas. The Committee commends HRSA's recent efforts to 
expand tribal engagement efforts. The Committee looks forward 
to receiving the report required under this heading in House 
Report 119-271 and directs HRSA to provide an annual update to 
the Committees on Appropriations of the House of 
Representatives and the Senate. Such annual update shall be 
made available on the agency's website.
    Vision and Eye Health for Children.--The Committee notes 
the lack of awareness, early detection practices, and 
intervention initiatives regarding children's vision and eye 
health. The Committee encourages HRSA to engage with 
stakeholders to support care for children's vision care and eye 
health, including public education, early detection, referral 
to eye care, diagnosis and intervention, follow-up for 
children, and connection to services for children with 
identified vision problems and support for families. The 
Committee notes that nearly 90 percent of children's vision 
problems are preventable if caught and treated early and that 
healthy vision contributes to learning readiness, mental 
wellness, and lifelong potential.

Office of Pharmacy Affairs

    The Committee includes $12,238,000 for the Office of 
Pharmacy Affairs. The Committee notes that HHS proposes 
transferring the Office of Pharmacy Affairs from HRSA to CMS. 
The Committee looks forward to working with the authorizing 
committees of jurisdiction as they consider the Department's 
proposal.

Office for the Advancement of Telehealth

    The Committee includes $45,550,000 for the Office for the 
Advancement of Telehealth (OAT). Funds for OAT promote the 
effective use of technologies to improve access to health 
services for people who are isolated from health care and to 
provide distance education for health professionals.
    Within the total provided for OAT, the Committee includes 
not less than the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Technology-Enabled Collaborative           $8,500,000         $8,500,000
 Learning.........................
Telehealth Centers of Excellence..          8,500,000          8,500,000
Telehealth Resource Centers.......          5,050,000          5,050,000
Telehealth Network Grants.........          5,400,000          5,400,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Technology-Enabled Collaborative Learning.--The Committee 
provides not less than $8,500,000 to continue the use of 
technology-enabled collaborative learning and capacity building 
models. These innovative education models, often referred to as 
Project ECHO, use a hub-and-spoke approach by linking expert 
specialist teams at a ``hub'' with the ``spokes'' of health 
providers in local communities to increase on-the-ground 
expertise. Using case-based learning, Project ECHO models can 
improve the capacity of providers, helping clinicians provide 
expert-level care to patients wherever they live. It also 
increases patient access to specialty treatment, especially in 
rural and underserved areas, and educates providers on how to 
best meet the needs of people living with many chronic 
conditions, including Alzheimer's and other dementias. The 
Committee directs GAO to provide a follow up report on the 
Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation's 2019 report 
to Congress on the ``Current State of Technology-Enabled 
Collaborative Learning and Capacity Building Models''. To the 
extent feasible, this GAO report should focus on the impact of 
Project ECHO across the United States and provide details on 
the efficacy of the program since its inception, including 
numbers and locations of patients reached and providers 
trained. The Committee directs GAO to brief the Committees on 
Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate 
within 180 days of enactment of this Act with a report to 
follow.
    Telehealth Centers of Excellence.--The Committee provides 
not less than $8,500,000 for Telehealth Centers of Excellence. 
These Centers identify best practices, serve as national 
training resources, and test the efficacy of different 
telehealth clinical applications. These Centers serve to 
promote the adoption of telehealth programs across the country 
by validating technology, establishing training protocols, and 
by providing a comprehensive template for States to integrate 
telehealth into their State health provider network. Funding 
should serve to promote the adoption of telehealth services 
nationwide and help address the access to care issue faced by 
rural America.

                  VACCINE INJURY COMPENSATION PROGRAM

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $287,262,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       291,878,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       291,878,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        +4,616,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) provides 
compensation for individuals with vaccine-associated injuries 
or deaths. The Committee provides $15,200,000 for expenses 
associated with administering the program. The Committee also 
includes $276,678,000 in mandatory funding from the Vaccine 
Injury Compensation Program Trust Fund for claims.
    The Committee continues to support the VICP as a critical, 
no-fault alternative to traditional tort litigation that has 
successfully processed over 28,000 claims and distributed 
approximately $5 billion to petitioners. Over the same period, 
over 5 billion doses of covered vaccines have been 
administered. The Committee notes the number of VICP claims 
increased dramatically between fiscal years 2015 and 2024. The 
Committee urges HRSA to improve transparency, timeliness, and 
accessibility of the VICP and continue efforts to reduce 
backlogs and modernize claims processing. The Committee 
requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification on the number of vaccine claims that have been 
received each year over the past 5 years.

               Centers for Disease Control and Prevention


 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $9,202,991,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     6,345,461,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     8,164,411,000
    Change from enacted level.........................    -1,038,580,000
    Change from budget request........................    +1,818,950,000
 

    The Committee recommendation for the Centers for Disease 
Control and Prevention (CDC) program level includes 
$6,667,734,000 in discretionary budget authority, $55,358,000 
in mandatory funds under the terms of the Energy Employees 
Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act, and 
$1,398,375,000 in transfers from the Health Fund (PPHF).
    The CDC is the nation's primary public health protection 
agency and a critical pillar of America's health security. 
Charged with protecting the homeland against emerging health 
threats that arise domestically and abroad, CDC conducts 
rigorous science, provides timely, evidence-based guidance, and 
deploys advanced surveillance, epidemiology, and laboratory 
capabilities to detect threats early and mount rapid, effective 
responses that safeguard American lives and economic stability.
    CDC Core Capacities.--The Committee prioritizes 
strengthening CDC data systems, building laboratory capacity, 
modernizing communications, and developing a highly skilled 
public health workforce to ensure robust Federal, State, and 
local capabilities. With clear accountability and a focus on 
domestic resilience, CDC funding should reinforce critical 
health capabilities, accelerate disease threat detection and 
medical countermeasure development, and sustain a resilient 
public health system that protects vulnerable populations and 
secures the nation against emerging threats and public health 
challenges.
    The Committee prioritizes funding for CDC Core Capacities 
across 14 accounts, including Quarantine; Emerging Infectious 
Diseases; Advanced Molecular Detection; Epi and Lab Capacity; 
Health Statistics; Public Health Data Modernization; Public 
Health Workforce; Advancing Laboratory Science; Surveillance, 
Epi, and Informatics; Global Health Protection; Public Health 
Emergency Preparedness Cooperative Agreements; Buildings and 
Facilities; and the Infectious Diseases Rapid Response Reserve 
Fund; Public Health Infrastructure. As part of the fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification, CDC is directed to provide a 
breakout table detailing the funding requested for these core 
capacity program lines.
    Public Awareness of CDC Activities.--The Committee 
recognizes that many public health interventions are preventive 
in nature and often occur without public notice. These 
prevention activities are essential to protecting Americans 
from threats both at home and abroad. Therefore, the Committee 
urges CDC to expand public-facing communications that highlight 
successful domestic and global prevention efforts, with the 
goal of improving public understanding of how CDC programs save 
lives, protect U.S. health security interests, and preserve 
economic stability.

                 IMMUNIZATION AND RESPIRATORY DISEASES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $913,291,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       963,291,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       928,291,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +15,000,000
    Change from budget request........................       -35,000,000
 

    The Committee recommendation includes $231,358,000 in 
discretionary budget authority and $696,933,000 in transfers 
from PPHF.
    Immunization cooperative agreements are awarded to State 
and local public health departments for planning, developing, 
and conducting childhood, adolescent, and adult immunization 
programs, including enhancement of the vaccine delivery 
infrastructure. CDC directly maintains a stockpile of vaccines, 
supports consolidated purchase of vaccines for State and local 
health agencies, conducts surveillance, supports jurisdictions 
in investigating and responding to outbreaks of vaccine-
preventable diseases, and provides training and quality 
improvement activities to improve healthcare providers' vaccine 
storage, handling, and administration capabilities.
    Within the total for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, 
the Committee recommends the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Section 317 Immunization Program..       $681,933,000       $696,933,000
    Section 317 Immunization              596,390,000        696,933,000
     Program Transfer from the
     Prevention and Public Health
     Fund.........................
    Section 317 Immunization               85,543,000              - - -
     Program appropriations.......
Influenza Planning and Response           231,358,000        231,358,000
 appropriations...................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Avian Influenza.--The Committee recognizes the potential 
risk of avian influenza spillover, particularly the H5N1 
strain, from egg laying hens and cattle to workers with high-
risk exposure. The Committee urges CDC to continue 
collaborating with USDA, State, and local partners through a 
One Health approach to support outreach and education among at-
risk agricultural communities through existing funding 
mechanisms.
    Immunization During Pregnancy.--To increase access to 
recommended immunizations, the Committee encourages CDC to 
increase its efforts to educate health care providers about the 
importance of immunization during pregnancy, which can provide 
protection for children from 0-6 months from diseases such as 
flu, pertussis (whooping cough), and respiratory syncytial 
virus (RSV), when the children are at their most vulnerable. 
The Committee also encourages CDC to work with Federal partners 
to improve awareness and coordination among Federal partners to 
increase immunization during pregnancy.
    Vaccine Education & Awareness.--The Committee recognizes 
that CDC's Section 317 Immunization Program plays a critical 
role in achieving national immunization goals. This program 
protects communities against vaccine-preventable diseases by 
supporting State, tribal, local, and territorial immunization 
infrastructure, including vaccine surveillance, outbreak 
investigation, vaccine safety monitoring, immunization 
registries, vaccine purchasing, technical assistance, and 
education and awareness for families and providers. The 
Committee continues to provide funding for vaccine outreach and 
awareness campaigns, including support for community-based 
approaches to addressing vaccine hesitancy. The Committee urges 
CDC to expand existing immunization infrastructure, including 
implementing strategies for underserved populations. The 
Committee requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification on these efforts and the rate of 
routine immunization across all age groups.
    Vaccines for Children.--The Vaccines for Children (VFC) 
Program provides safe, effective, and life-saving immunizations 
for millions of children each year, including the hepatitis B 
immunization and Nirsevimab, a monoclonal antibody that helps 
prevent RSV in infants and young children. The Committee 
continues to support the CDC's administration of the VFC in an 
effort to prevent disease, disability, and death in the U.S.

     HIV/AIDS, VIRAL HEPATITIS, SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES, AND 
                        TUBERCULOSIS PREVENTION

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $1,384,056,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       520,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       566,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -818,056,000
    Change from budget request........................       +46,000,000
 

    CDC provides national leadership and support for HIV/AIDS, 
viral hepatitis, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and 
tuberculosis (TB) prevention research and the development, 
implementation, and evaluation of evidence-based prevention 
programs serving persons affected by, or at risk of, infection. 
Activities include surveillance, epidemiologic and laboratory 
studies, and prevention activities. CDC provides funds to 
State, local, and tribal health departments and community-based 
organizations to develop and implement integrated community 
prevention plans.
    Within the total for the National Center for HIV/AIDS, 
Viral Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Diseases, and 
Tuberculosis Prevention, the Committee provides the following 
amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Domestic HIV/AIDS Prevention and       $1,013,712,000       $220,000,000
 Research.........................
    Ending HIV/HIV Initiative.....        220,000,000        220,000,000
    Other HIV/AIDS Activities.....        793,712,000              - - -
Viral Hepatitis...................         46,000,000              - - -
Sexually Transmitted Infections...        164,310,000              - - -
Tuberculosis......................        137,034,000        137,034,000
Infectious Diseases and Opioids...         23,000,000              - - -
Sexually Transmitted Disease and                - - -        208,966,000
 Viral Hepatitis Prevention Block
 Grants...........................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Block Grants.--The Committee provides $208,966,000 for 
consolidated STIs, Viral Hepatitis, and Infectious Diseases and 
Opioids grants to States. This funding will give States 
flexibility to address local needs by consolidating funding for 
these programs into a single, newly established grant program. 
The Committee directs CDC to maintain national capabilities to 
continue providing recipients of this consolidated grant 
program with strategic direction, technical support, 
programmatic expertise, including but not limited to disease 
surveillance, laboratory services, evidence-based prevention 
programming, and outbreak response. Within the amount provided, 
the Committee directs CDC to allocate not less than $46,000,000 
to maintain national capabilities to support health departments 
in conducting viral hepatitis surveillance, prevention, and 
outbreak response, including addressing coinfections, to 
support viral hepatitis elimination planning and 
implementation, and to work with health clinics and community-
based organizations to promote awareness of and uptake of 
updated national viral hepatitis testing, treatment, and 
vaccination recommendations.
    Ending HIV Epidemic (EHE) Initiative.--The Committee 
provides funding for the EHE Initiative to continue 
implementation of EHE strategies, including nationwide HIV 
surveillance, testing, prevention, outbreak response, and 
laboratory services. Surveillance data is used to inform 
resource allocation, including for the Ryan White HIV/AIDS 
program.
    Tuberculosis Screening for Cadaver Tissue Donors.--The 
Committee is concerned about the continued risk of donor-
derived tuberculosis transmission through human cells, tissues, 
and cellular- and tissue-based products (HCT/Ps) and the lack 
of a standardized testing approach suitable for cadaveric donor 
matrices. The Committee encourages CDC to continue funding 
scientific research into the development of new TB diagnostic, 
treatment, and prevention tools.

               EMERGING AND ZOONOTIC INFECTIOUS DISEASES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $781,272,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       927,764,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       882,872,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      +101,600,000
    Change from budget request........................       -44,892,000
 

    The Committee recommendation includes $815,872,000 in 
discretionary appropriations and $67,000,000 in transfers from 
PPHF.
    Programs funded under Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious 
Diseases (EZID) support the prevention and control of 
infectious diseases through surveillance, outbreak 
investigation and response, research, and prevention.
    Within the total for EZID, the Committee recommends the 
following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Antimicrobial Resistance                 $197,000,000       $207,000,000
 Initiative appropriations........
Vector-Borne Diseases                      64,603,000         65,603,000
 appropriations...................
Lyme Disease appropriations.......         27,000,000         28,000,000
Prion Disease appropriations......          9,000,000         10,000,000
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome                    5,400,000              - - -
 appropriations...................
Emerging Infectious Diseases              223,997,000        267,997,000
 appropriations...................
    Mycotic Diseases                       24,000,000         29,000,000
     appropriations (non-add).....
    Parasitic Diseases and Malaria         29,000,000         29,000,000
     appropriations (non-add).....
Harmful Algal Blooms                        3,500,000          3,500,000
 appropriations...................
Food Safety appropriations........         74,000,000         79,000,000
National Healthcare Safety Network         24,000,000         24,000,000
 appropriations...................
Travel and Port Health Protection          57,772,000         72,772,000
 appropriations...................
Advanced Molecular Detection               43,000,000         58,000,000
 appropriations...................
Epidemiology and Lab Capacity              40,000,000         55,000,000
 Transfer from the Prevention and
 Public Health Fund...............
Healthcare-Associated Infections           12,000,000         12,000,000
 Transfer from the Prevention and
 Public Health Fund...............
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Advanced Molecular Detection.--The Committee provides 
increased funding to support CDC's Advanced Molecular Detection 
(AMD) program, including as part of the Biothreat Radar 
initiative. The AMD program is a key component of the nation's 
biosecurity infrastructure. It provides multi-pathogen 
sequencing and bioinformatics tools to enable rapid detection 
and response to emerging infectious disease threats. The 
Committee encourages CDC to build capacity to conduct 
metagenomic surveillance and inform clinical and public health 
action in collaboration with States, Tribes, localities, and 
private sector partners.
    Alpha-gal Syndrome.--The Committee appreciates the work of 
the Division of Vector-Borne Diseases to prevent the 
transmission of and promote health provider awareness of Alpha-
gal Syndrome (AGS). AGS is an emerging tick-borne condition and 
allergy characterized by a potentially life-threatening 
hypersensitivity to galactose-alpha-1,3- galactose (alpha-gal). 
Its prevalence is closely associated with the range of the lone 
star tick. AGS is a growing clinical and public health concern 
for persons in the United States. Exploding lone star tick 
populations may be driving an alarming increase in cases. 
Health care provider knowledge is limited and can lead to 
delayed diagnosis and inappropriate treatment.
    The Committee encourages CDC to continue accelerating 
measures to improve AGS surveillance, patient care, and public 
awareness with an emphasis on healthcare provider education, in 
keeping with the three public health priorities identified in 
the CDC 2023 report. CDC is encouraged to focus on high or 
growing prevalence States. CDC may also benefit from a focused 
increase in its collaboration and partnership with local 
governments, health, education, community, non-profit, and 
faith-based sectors in those same high-incidence communities.
    Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Solutions Initiative.--The 
Committee remains concerned about the growing threat of AMR, 
including emerging and drug-resistant fungal pathogens that are 
resistant to, or inadequately treated by, currently available 
antifungal therapies. The Committee strongly encourages CDC to 
ensure that antifungal resistance and fungal pathogens such as 
Candida auris are fully incorporated into AMR activities, 
specifically efforts to improve response, detection, and 
prevention strategies. The Committee further encourages CDC, 
through the One Health Federal Interagency Coordination 
Committee, to collaborate with Federal partners to address AMR 
challenges across human, animal, and environmental health. The 
Committee requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification on current and planned activities 
to address antifungal resistance and emerging fungal pathogens.
    Biothreat Radar.--The Committee recognizes the importance 
of strengthening the nation's early detection and response 
capacities to novel and high-consequence pathogens. Therefore, 
the Committee provides funding to support the Biothreat Radar 
initiative through CDC's AMD, Wastewater Monitoring, and 
Traveler-Based Genomic Surveillance (TGS) programs.
    Drug-Resistant Infections.--The Committee strongly 
encourages CDC to continue raising awareness of the elevated 
risk of drug-resistant infections that impact patients, 
especially those with cancer. The Committee urges CDC to 
educate physicians and patients on infection prevention and 
antibiotic stewardship in the cancer patient population.
    Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity.--The Committee 
recognizes the importance of the Epidemiology and Laboratory 
Capacity (ELC) program, which provides flexibility to State, 
territorial, and local health departments to address gaps not 
funded by the disease specific sections of the ELC cooperative 
agreement. The ELC program provides critical foundational 
support for these health departments to fund epidemiology, 
surveillance, laboratory, and data science staff positions that 
provide the backbone for public health programs. This funding 
will allow public health departments to build their 
foundational public health workforce and infrastructure and 
will better prepare them to respond to emerging infectious 
disease threats more quickly including vector-borne and tick-
related diseases such as alpha-gal, dengue, Lyme, malaria, West 
Nile, Zika, healthcare associated infections, foodborne 
illnesses and outbreaks, and high consequence emerging threats, 
including viral hemorrhagic fevers like Marburg, rabies, and 
emerging poxviruses (e.g. monkeypox).
    Food Safety.--The Committee provides increased funding to 
strengthen prevention and surveillance of foodborne and 
waterborne diseases, including modernizing laboratory and 
informatics infrastructure, incorporating next-generation 
metagenomics, and bolstering partnerships with States, Tribes, 
and localities.
    Fungal Infection Disease Surveillance.--The Committee is 
concerned by the spread of deadly fungal infections in the 
United States in recent years and finds that the economic 
burden of fungal infections in the United States is already 
staggering, particularly in western States. The Committee finds 
that a Federal plan with resources to address the threat of 
fungal infections, including emerging and antimicrobial 
resistant mycotic threats, holds the best potential to 
safeguard the health of Americans in the event of a domestic 
pandemic or in foreign theaters of war, and that the Federal 
governments recognition of fungal infections as a microbial 
threat to human health can allow for existing planning 
mechanisms such as the U.S. National Action Plan for Combating 
Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria, the President's Advisory Council 
on Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria, and CDC reports on 
priority antimicrobial resistant threats to better account for 
steps taken to respond to fungal threats in the United States.
    Harmful Algal Blooms.--The Committee notes that harmful 
algal blooms (HABs) are on the rise globally, particularly 
across the Great Lakes region, Florida, and other coastal 
communities. The Committee encourages CDC to increase national 
surveillance efforts for HAB events and develop studies to 
assess the health effects of exposure to cyanotoxins in the air 
and water. CDC has a unique role in better understanding the 
intersection of public health and environmental impacts of 
HABs. The Committee encourages CDC to continue building 
interagency cooperation surrounding HABs, especially the 
Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Act Task 
Force and the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. The scope of 
future research may expand to include improving laboratory 
methods for identifying and quantifying HAB-related toxins in 
biological specimens, supporting clinical diagnostic methods to 
identify HAB-related symptoms and illnesses, optimizing 
emergency response capacities, increasing awareness among 
affected communities, and identifying and addressing the 
impacts of harmful algal toxins on humans.
    Healthcare-Associated Infections.--The Committee supports 
CDC's work to reduce infections acquired in health care 
settings, including health care system monitoring through CDC's 
National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) to inform prevention 
efforts. A significant challenge in combating healthcare-
associated infections (HAIs) is addressing transmission of 
pathogens via ``high-touch'' surfaces in patient care areas, 
including best practices for managing hospital privacy and 
cubicle curtains. Therefore, the Committee encourages CDC to 
continue to promote infection prevention in health care 
settings through research into the spread of infections in 
healthcare settings, outbreak assistance, HAI burden 
surveillance in NHSN, and through review and updates to its 
guidelines to enhance infection control and prevention 
practices in hospitals and other health care settings.
    Lyme Disease.--Lyme disease can be found in at least 80 
countries around the globe and is endemic in many regions. In 
the U.S., Lyme disease is the most common disease transmitted 
from animals to humans. After years of uncertainty, CDC 
continues to note the number of reported Lyme disease cases in 
the U.S. is likely far below the estimated number of actual 
cases that are diagnosed and treated annually. According to 
CDC, in 2023, approximately 89,000 cases of the disease were 
reported, compared to estimates showing that more than 476,000 
may be diagnosed and treated with Lyme disease annually in the 
U.S. To address the risk of underreporting, the Committee 
continues to support CDC's efforts to improve testing and 
treatment related to Lyme and other tick-borne diseases and 
encourages CDC to consider expanding activities related to the 
development of more accurate diagnostic tools and tests for 
Lyme disease and steps to educate high-risk workers and their 
employers regarding the occupational risks of tick-borne 
diseases.
    Lyme Disease Surveillance.--The Committee encourages CDC to 
continue working with States to improve surveillance, data 
collection, and reporting on Lyme disease and other tick-borne 
diseases. The Committee further encourages CDC, as appropriate 
and consistent with available resources, to support State and 
local public health entities in high-incidence areas engaged in 
surveillance, prevention, education, and other public health 
response activities related to tick-borne diseases.
    Maternal Fetal Transmission of Lyme Disease.--The Committee 
instructs CDC to complete the directives included under this 
heading in the House Report 119-271.
    Mycotic Diseases.--The Committee provides funding for 
mycotic diseases, including, surveillance and prevention, 
building capacity in State and local health departments, 
cooperative agreements, education of the public and healthcare 
providers, and laboratory support. The Committee continues to 
support the CDC's collaboration with the Valley Fever Institute 
and the Cocci Study Group. The Committee continues the 
directive included under this heading in the House Report 119-
271.
    National Strategy for Vector-borne Disease.--The Committee 
encourages the CDC to execute the Lyme and tick-borne disease 
portion of the National Strategy for Vector-borne Disease. It 
is also important that the CDC accelerate measures to improve 
Alpha-gal Syndrome surveillance, patient care, and public 
awareness with an emphasis on healthcare provider education, in 
keeping with the three public health priorities identified in 
the 2023 CDC report.
    The Committee further encourages CDC to expand nationwide 
surveillance of vector-borne diseases through the VectorSurv 
program. The Committee is aware that this modernized, data 
management and analysis system is used by vector control and 
state public health agencies to manage and analyze surveillance 
and control data on mosquitos, ticks, arboviruses, and other 
vector-borne diseases. The Committee notes that the expansion 
of VectorSurv is a component of the goals for improved vector-
borne disease surveillance capabilities referenced in the CDC's 
December, 2025 National Public Health Strategy to Prevent and 
Control Vector-Borne Diseases in People.
    New World Screwworm.--The Committee recognizes that the New 
World Screwworm poses a serious threat to human and animal 
health due to its dependence on living tissues for larval 
development. While existing Federal and State efforts--focused 
on surveillance, control, eradication, and sterile insect 
techniques--have prevented infestation in the U.S., critical 
gaps remain in public health and veterinary awareness, 
training, and preparedness. These gaps disproportionately 
affect health care providers serving high-risk populations, as 
well as small ruminant and companion animal owners, 
veterinarians and veterinary hospital staff, personnel in 
animal shelters and rescues, and wildlife rehabilitation 
organizations.
    The Committee urges CDC to collaborate with USDA, DOI, 
States, and institutions of higher education to expand efforts 
under the One Health approach. Priorities should include 
developing targeted educational materials, hosting continuing 
education for physicians, veterinarians, and other relevant 
stakeholders, enhancing detection technologies, and closing 
awareness gaps to bolster community preparedness against this 
emerging threat.
    Parasitic Diseases and Malaria.--The Committee continues 
funding for parasitic diseases and malaria prevention through 
the National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious 
Diseases. This funding was previously provided through the CDC 
Global Health Center.
    Prion Disease.--The Committee is concerned that Chronic 
Wasting disease (CWD), a fatal condition in cervids (deer, elk, 
and moose) caused by misfolded prions, has been detected in 
over 37 States and all four regions of the country. Monitoring 
the prevalence of prion diseases, including determining a 
disease's incidence and whether it was acquired from animals or 
other humans, is critical. In light of scientific observations 
regarding the nationwide spread of CWD and concerns about the 
potential for cross-species transmissions to humans and food 
production animals, the Committee includes $10,000,000 for 
surveillance efforts of human prion diseases, including 
Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, through CDC's implementation of the 
prion surveillance program in partnership with the National 
Prion Disease Pathology Surveillance Center and state health 
departments.
    Travel and Port Health Protection.--The Committee provides 
increased funding to support the integration of the TGS program 
into the Biothreat Radar initiative. The Committee is aware of 
the expansion of TGS to include multiple pathogens of public 
health interest collected through aircraft wastewater, and 
voluntary nasal swabs from travelers arriving at several U.S.-
based international airports and recommends the expansion of 
these activities through resources made available in this bill 
and from previous appropriations balances. This capability has 
been effective in advancing the nation's pathogen surveillance 
capabilities to provide early warning for detection, 
characterization, and migratory disease origin.
    Soil Transmitted Helminth and Related Diseases.--Within the 
total amount provided for Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, the 
Committee includes $1,500,000 to extend the currently funded 
CDC projects aimed at surveillance, clinical care, and the 
implementation of control measures to reduce soil transmitted 
helminth infection and other parasitic infections of public 
health concern.
    Southern Tick Associated Rash Illness.--The Committee 
instructs CDC to complete the directives included under this 
heading in the House Report 119-271.
    Tick-Borne Diseases (TBD) External Engagement.--The 
Committee strongly encourages CDC to establish a panel of 
expert outside stakeholders to evaluate and review the Lyme 
disease information on its website for its inclusion of a 
balance of scientifically valid perspectives, primarily 
regarding the state of the science for diagnostics and 
treatments. The stated goals and purposes of the review and the 
identity of review participants, including the balanced panel 
of experts, including experienced TBD clinicians, researchers, 
and educators, should be fully transparent.
    Tick-Borne Diseases Public Information.--The Committee 
directs CDC, within 120 days of enactment of this Act, to 
develop a two-year plan (to include fiscal years 2028 and 2029) 
for conducting evaluation reviews of the information on its 
website for TBDs, including any TBD overviews and information 
on individual TBDs, including alpha-gal syndrome, the non-
infectious allergic disease related to a tick bite that is less 
understood than other allergic conditions, and for developing 
educational materials for clinicians, high-risk workers, and 
the public for each TBD and tickborne condition, with priority 
based on disease burden, determined by prevalence and level of 
disability. The CDC is further directed, within 120 days of the 
enactment of this Act, to publicly release a report on alpha-
gal syndrome, including prevalence, etiology, treatment, 
outcomes, and prognosis.
    Vector-Borne Diseases.--The Committee recognizes the 
increased threat posed by vector-borne diseases such as Zika, 
West Nile, STARI, Oropouche, alpha-gal syndrome, and dengue and 
provides increased funding to support CDC's ability to assist 
States affected by the increased prevalence in vector-borne 
diseases.
    Wastewater Monitoring.--The Committee provides funding 
under Emerging Infectious Diseases to sustain and strengthen 
CDC's infectious disease surveillance through wastewater 
monitoring as part of the Biothreat Radar initiative. 
Wastewater monitoring helps communities track multiple existing 
infectious disease threats simultaneously and pivot quickly to 
detect new threats. The Committee underscores the importance of 
a wastewater monitoring system that can serve as a national 
early-warning network with broad geographic representation, 
strategically incorporating sites across the country to 
strengthen early detection and biosecurity, and sharing results 
publicly to inform communities and protect Americans.
    The Committee encourages CDC to work with States and 
localities to start or improve wastewater programs; provide 
ongoing guidance and recommendations, particularly on methods 
to rapidly detect emerging pathogens; partner with public, 
private, and nonprofit entities at the forefront of this work; 
and prioritize resources for sites that can sample and test for 
multiple infectious diseases, pivot quickly to detect emerging 
threats, and apply scientifically rigorous standards to ensure 
reliable, comparable data. The Committee also encourages CDC to 
further strengthen its metrics and methods to promote more 
efficient and effective wastewater monitoring, expand testing 
to a broader range of settings and threats, and ensure that the 
wastewater sampling data reported to CDC are published on the 
agency's website.

            CHRONIC DISEASE PREVENTION AND HEALTH PROMOTION

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $1,432,815,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       448,049,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     1,311,641,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -121,174,000
    Change from budget request........................      +863,592,000
 

    The Committee recommendation includes $873,199,000 in 
discretionary appropriations and $438,442,000 in transfers from 
PPHF.
    Programs supported within Chronic Disease Prevention and 
Health Promotion provide national leadership and support for 
State, tribal, and community efforts to promote health and 
well-being through the prevention and control of chronic 
diseases.
    Within the total provided, the Committee provides the 
following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tobacco...........................       $246,500,000       $246,500,000
    Tobacco appropriations........         46,500,000         46,500,000
    Tobacco Transfer from the             200,000,000        200,000,000
     Prevention and Public Health
     Fund.........................
Nutrition, Physical Activity, and          54,320,000         16,500,000
 Obesity appropriations...........
    High Obesity Rate Countries            16,500,000         16,500,000
     appropriations...............
School Health appropriations......         19,400,000              - - -
Health Promotion..................         63,100,000         61,600,000
    Vision and Eye Health                   4,500,000          4,500,000
     appropriations...............
    Alzheimer's Disease                    41,500,000         41,500,000
     appropriations...............
    Inflammatory Bowel Disease              3,000,000          3,500,000
     appropriations...............
    Interstitial Cystitis                   2,100,000          2,100,000
     appropriations...............
    Chronic Kidney Disease                  4,500,000          5,500,000
     appropriations...............
    Chronic Disease Education and           4,500,000          4,500,000
     Awareness appropriations.....
    Other Health Promotion                  3,000,000              - - -
     Activities...................
Prevention Research Centers                28,961,000              - - -
 appropriations...................
Heart Disease and Stroke..........        156,105,000        160,312,000
    Heart Disease and Stroke               45,000,000         45,000,000
     appropriations...............
    Heart Disease and Stroke              111,105,000        115,312,000
     Transfer from the Prevention
     and Public Health Fund.......
Diabetes..........................        163,130,000        165,130,000
    Diabetes appropriations.......         45,000,000         47,000,000
    Diabetes Transfer from the            118,130,000        118,130,000
     Prevention and Public Health
     Fund.........................
National Diabetes Prevention               37,300,000         39,300,000
 Program appropriations...........
Cancer Prevention and Control.....        413,049,000        420,049,000
    Breast and Cervical Cancer            236,500,000        238,500,000
     appropriations...............
        WISEWOMAN appropriations           34,620,000         34,620,000
         (non-add)................
    Breast Cancer Awareness for             6,960,000          6,960,000
     Young Women appropriations...
    Cancer Registries                      53,440,000         53,440,000
     appropriations...............
    Colorectal Cancer                      44,294,000         46,294,000
     appropriations...............
    Comprehensive Cancer Control           22,425,000         22,425,000
     appropriations...............
    Johanna's Law appropriations..         12,000,000         13,000,000
    Ovarian Cancer appropriations.         15,500,000         16,500,000
    Prostate Cancer appropriations         16,205,000         17,205,000
    Skin Cancer appropriations....          5,000,000          5,000,000
    Cancer Survivorship Resource              725,000            725,000
     Center appropriations........
Oral Health appropriations........         21,250,000         22,250,000
Safe Motherhood/Infant Health             113,500,000        115,500,000
 appropriations...................
Arthritis appropriations..........          2,000,000          2,000,000
Epilepsy appropriations...........         11,500,000         11,500,000
National Lupus Registry                    14,000,000         16,000,000
 appropriations...................
Good Health and Wellness in Indian         27,000,000         30,000,000
 Country appropriations...........
Healthy Weight Task Force Obesity           5,000,000          5,000,000
 Activities/National Early Child
 Care Collaboration Transfer from
 the Prevention and Public Health
 Fund.............................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias.--The Committee 
recognizes that conformational disorders, such as Alzheimer's 
disease, Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, and prion diseases, may 
share disease characteristics which are overlooked or mistaken 
in diagnosis. The Committee encourages CDC to support broader 
conformational disease prevention and awareness activities with 
Alzheimer's Disease awareness and prevention funding.
    Assisted Reproductive Reporting Requirements.--The 
Committee recognizes that Congress passed the Fertility Clinic 
Success Rate and Certification Act in 1992, which ``mandates 
that clinics performing assisted reproductive technology 
annually provide data for all procedures performed to CDC and 
sets forth definitions and reporting requirements.'' The 
Committee acknowledges the importance of oversight to ensure 
ethical assisted reproductive technology practices and to 
address the long-term health outcomes and complications for 
women and children. The Committee continues the directives 
included under this heading in the House Report 119-271.
    Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening.--The Committee 
continues to support provisions of critical, lifesaving breast 
and cervical cancer screenings and diagnostic services. The 
Committee is aware that there are still substantial barriers to 
screening like geographic isolation, limited health literacy, 
lack of provider recommendation and trust, inconvenient times 
to access services, and physical discomfort. The Committee is 
encouraged by recent progress in screening methods and programs 
that aim to eliminate patient access barriers. The Committee 
encourages CDC to continue efforts to reduce breast and 
cervical cancer and to work to reach women who may have delayed 
screening services. The Committee is concerned with the decline 
in screening rates, and the increase in diagnosis of advanced 
cervical cancers, especially in rural and underserved 
communities. Provided within the increase, the Committee 
encourages the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early 
Detection Program to build on existing programs by finding new 
and innovative outreach and education strategies to engage 
women to increase screening rates. The use of navigators has 
proven especially successful in reaching women with low rates 
of screening. The Committee directs CDC provide an update on 
these activities in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification.
    Breast Cancer Risk Assessments.--The Committee recognizes 
the need to increase education and awareness of existing breast 
cancer risk assessment tools to improve screening rates, 
promote a comprehensive understanding of risk factors, and 
better inform clinical practice for early diagnosis and 
treatment. The Committee is aware of several Federal online 
breast cancer risk assessment tools, including those at CDC and 
NCI. The Committee looks forward to reviewing CDC's report on 
creating a comprehensive, publicly accessible risk assessment 
tool and strategies to increase public awareness of said tool.
    Cervical Cancer Outreach and Education.--The Committee is 
concerned with the decline in screening rates, and the increase 
in diagnosis of advanced cervical cancers, especially in rural 
and underserved communities. Provided within the increase, the 
Committee encourages NBCCEDP to build on existing programs by 
finding new and innovative outreach and education strategies to 
engage women to increase screening rates. The use of navigators 
has proven especially successful in reaching women with low 
rates of screening. The Committee looks forward to receiving a 
briefing on these activities.
    Chronic Kidney Disease.--Chronic kidney disease (CKD) 
affects more than 37 million adults in the United States, with 
an additional 1 in 3 U.S. adults at risk of developing CKD due 
to diabetes and hypertension. The vast majority of adults 
(about 90 percent) are unaware they have CKD until there is a 
need for dialysis or kidney transplantation. Approximately 36 
percent of total 2023 Medicare fee-for-service cost was spent 
on care for CKD patients, however, CKD is underdiagnosed and 
not detected early enough to initiate effective treatment 
regimens to reduce cardiovascular complications, death, and 
disability. A public health approach contributes toward better 
and earlier detection to allow more time for interventions 
targeted to improve outcomes. The Committee encourages 
continued investment to educate the public about their risk for 
CKD, educate clinical professionals, and spur innovation by 
entities serving the CKD community. By improving surveillance, 
patient and provider awareness, early detection, and treatment, 
the progression of kidney disease can be slowed, and 
complications can be reduced which will dramatically improve 
the quality of life of patients and reduce healthcare costs.
    Dental Caries and Nutrition.--The Committee is aware that 
some States have implemented policies limiting or prohibiting 
the use of public food assistance benefits to purchase ultra-
processed foods, including soda and candy. The Committee notes 
the role these foods play in dental disease, including dental 
caries. The Committee encourages CDC to evaluate the prevalence 
of dental caries among children by State before and after the 
implementation of such policies.
    Diabetes.--According to CDC's 2023 data from the National 
Diabetes Statistics Report, approximately 2.1 million Americans 
have type 1 diabetes (T1D), with 314,000 of these individuals 
under the age of 20. The incidence of T1D has increased 
significantly over the past 20 years. Millions of individuals 
are at an increased risk of developing T1D because they have a 
first-degree relative with the condition, and a subset of these 
individuals are in the early stages of T1D. The Committee 
recognizes CDC's efforts to educate the public on T1D and 
monitor scientific recommendations for testing, screening, and 
treatment for people with T1D. The Committee encourages CDC to 
continue providing timely updates on the agency website.
    Diabetes in AI/AN.--The Committee notes that according to 
the CDC, American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) adults are 
more likely to have diabetes than any other racial or ethnic 
group, with one-in-seven AI/AN adults having diabetes. Within 
the amount provided, the Committee reserves no less than 5 
percent for Indian Tribes and Tribal Organizations.
    Epilepsy.--The Committee commends CDC for its ongoing 
leadership of this successful program and effective community 
collaborations, and encourages further efforts to eliminate 
stigma, improve awareness and education, and better connect 
people with epilepsy to health and community services. The 
Committee recognizes the importance of data to accurately 
understand the incidence, prevalence, and mortality rate of 
epilepsies, along with individual and social risk factors that 
influence health outcomes. The Committee appreciates CDC's 
ongoing epilepsy-related surveillance and funding of 
epidemiologic studies on epilepsy. The Committee encourages CDC 
to enhance surveillance and epidemiologic studies of epilepsies 
to generate data that can guide interventions to improve 
outcomes for people with epilepsy.
    Endometriosis.--The Committee urges CDC to increase 
awareness of endometriosis, including its prevalence, current 
treatment options, and long-term health impacts. The Committee 
encourages CDC to strengthen national surveillance, improve 
data standardization, and assess the broader health and 
economic burdens associated with delayed diagnosis and 
untreated endometriosis. The Committee further encourages the 
agency to identify disparities in access to diagnosis and 
treatment of endometriosis across different populations.
    Guidance on Core AYA Services.--The Committee recognizes 
that adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients, defined 
as patients diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 39, have 
unique psychological, reproductive and financial challenges 
that are often not addressed in the current cancer care system. 
The Committee encourages CDC, in collaboration with NCI and 
other relevant stakeholder groups, to develop consensus 
guidance for defining standards and improving quality of care 
for AYA patients. This includes fertility preservation 
counseling, psychosocial distress screening and survivorship 
support, among others, which health care providers can utilize 
to inform quality of care. The Committee requests an update in 
the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification on these 
efforts.
    Healthy Brain Initiative.--The Committee supports the 
Healthy Brain Initiative, including implementation of the 
Healthy Brain Initiative Public Health Road Maps. The Committee 
provides continued funding to implement community-based public 
health interventions for Alzheimer's disease and related 
dementias; promote brain health; translate clinical science 
into public health action; and increase the analysis and timely 
reporting of data related to cognitive decline, Alzheimer's 
disease and related dementias, and dementia caregiving.
    Heart Disease and Stroke.--The Committee continues funding 
to support the implementation of the Cardiovascular Advances in 
Research and Opportunities Legacy Act (P.L. 117-244). The 
Committee encourages CDC to increase the programmatic emphasis 
on heart valve disease education and awareness.
    High Obesity Rate Counties.--The Committee continues to 
support land grant universities in partnership with their 
cooperative extensions in counties with obesity rates over 40 
percent. The Committee directs CDC to encourage grantees to 
work with State and local public health departments and other 
partners to support measurable outcomes through community and 
population-level evidence-based obesity intervention and 
prevention programs. The Committee further directs that funded 
projects integrate evidence-based policy, systems, and 
environmental approaches to better understand and address the 
environmental and societal implications of obesity. To ensure a 
more seamless integration between grantees and public health 
partners, the Committee directs that preference be given to 
proposals that are led by or conducted in coordination with an 
academic medical center to ensure that education and outreach 
efforts are aligned with best medical practices. The Committee 
further encourages CDC to consider including high childhood 
obesity rates in its eligibility criteria for the High Obesity 
Program as well as the preponderance of obesity by State based 
on the CDC Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.
    Integrated Chronic Disease Prevention.--The Committee notes 
the importance of an integrated approach to chronic disease 
prevention and management among adults, including efforts that 
address shared risk factors and common underlying drivers 
across conditions. The Committee further notes potential 
benefits of coordinated program design, improved data use, and 
community-informed approaches, and streamlined support for 
state and local public health partners. The Committee 
encourages CDC to consider ways to advance these goals while 
maintaining appropriate attention to disease-specific expertise 
and minimizing unnecessary duplication of effort.
    Inflammatory Bowel Diseases.--The committee applauds the 
ongoing work to improve health outcomes for people impacted by 
Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, known collectively as 
IBD. The Committee provides funding to support CDC's work to 
improve the public health response to IBD. This includes work 
to increase awareness of IBD, improve understanding of 
effective treatments, and improved early disease diagnosis. The 
committee directs CDC to continue supporting this work.
    Lung Cancer.--The Committee is concerned that only 16 
percent of all those eligible are screened for lung cancer. To 
improve screening rates, the Committee encourages the National 
Comprehensive Cancer Control Program (NCCCP) to work with 
States on targeted, cost-effective strategies that increase 
lung cancer screening rates. Tactics might include improving 
patient and provider education, increasing awareness of the 
screening criteria, and leveraging patient navigators/community 
health workers to reduce barriers to accessing lung cancer 
screening.
    National Lupus Registry.--The Committee continues to 
support the National Lupus Patient Registry and the Developing 
and Disseminating Strategies to Build Sustainable Lupus 
Awareness, Knowledge, Skills, and Partnerships program. These 
efforts improve the ability of patients and healthcare 
providers to recognize the signs and symptoms of lupus, reduce 
time to diagnosis, and ensure timely referrals to appropriate 
specialty care, as well as access to self-management tools and 
services and educational support programs. The Committee 
encourages CDC to expand this work by strengthening community-
clinical linkages that enhance chronic care management and 
patient-centered care. This includes fostering partnerships 
with national lupus voluntary health organizations to better 
address the needs of individuals living with lupus. Guided by 
the National Public Health Agenda for Lupus, CDC funds 
population registries and cohort studies to increase public 
health knowledge about lupus as well as supporting activities 
to improve awareness of the signs and symptoms of Lupus.
    Oral Health.--The Committee understands the importance of 
CDC's Division of Oral Health and its role in reducing oral 
disease rates among vulnerable populations. The Committee 
provides funding for the Division of Oral Health to evaluate 
and enhance the nation's surveillance systems to better 
identify oral health burden at the national, State, and local 
levels. Such enhancements will make data available more 
quickly, enable exploration and evaluation of methods to track 
adherence to infection prevention, provide information for 
dental settings to support educational efforts, and increase 
awareness of the importance of oral health to overall health.
    Prostate Cancer.--The Committee remains concerned about the 
rise in prostate cancer deaths and supports the CDC's work to 
address this trend by increasing public awareness of prostate 
cancer risks, screening, and treatment in high-risk men. The 
Committee urges CDC to develop a national education and 
awareness campaign targeting high-risk men and their families. 
The Committee requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification on this effort.
    Safe Motherhood and Infant Health.--The Committee includes 
funding for this portfolio of programs to improve the health of 
pregnant and postpartum women and their infants. The Committee 
encourages CDC to prioritize funding to help Maternal Mortality 
Review Committees (MMRCs) strengthen data systems and improve 
data collection including through the Maternal Mortality Review 
Information Application, to promote consistency and ensure 
accuracy and completeness in data collection through the 
Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System, analysis, and 
reporting across State MMRCs. The Committee further encourages 
CDC to prioritize funding to expand Perinatal Quality 
Collaboratives (PQCs) in more jurisdictions, including building 
capacity of existing PQCs. The Committee continues the 
directive included under this heading in the House Report 119-
271.
    Schizophrenia Awareness.--An estimated 2,800,000 people in 
the U.S. are affected by schizophrenia and data show 
approximately 75 percent of patients discontinue treatment 
within the first 18 months. The Committee encourages CDC to 
work with national partners on education, outreach, and public 
awareness activities around schizophrenia and new treatment 
approaches.
    Triple-Negative Breast Cancers.--The committee recognizes 
findings that African American women have twice the odds of 
being diagnosed with Triple-Negative Breast Cancers (TNBCs). 
TNBC is more common in younger women as those under the age of 
40 diagnosed with breast cancer are nearly twice as likely to 
have TNBC than women aged 50-64. Therefore, the Committee looks 
forward to reviewing the report included under this heading in 
the House Report 119-271.
    U.S. Associated Islands.--The Committee continues to 
support funding for the prevention and control of chronic 
disease and associated risk factors in the U.S. affiliated 
Pacific Islands, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico.
    Vision and Eye Health.--The Committee provides funding to 
continue national-level surveillance activities, including for 
pediatric populations, on the risk and prevalence of vision 
loss and eye disease through the Vision and Eye Health 
Surveillance System. The Committee also encourages continued 
community-level interventions for detecting serious, 
progressive vision conditions such as glaucoma. The Committee 
notes that vision impairments and eye disease contribute to or 
complicate many other serious and costly chronic health 
conditions, including diabetes, depression and anxiety, 
cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline and expresses 
concern that conditions that carry a risk of vision loss, 
including diabetes, are increasingly more prevalent in younger 
populations.

   BIRTH DEFECTS, DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES, DISABILITIES AND HEALTH

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $205,060,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       153,810,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       199,460,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        -5,600,000
    Change from budget request........................       +45,650,000
 

    The National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental 
Disabilities (NCBDDD) account supports efforts to conduct 
research on and address the causes of birth defects and 
developmental disabilities, as well as reduce the complications 
of blood disorders and improve the health of people with 
disabilities.
    Within the total, the Committee recommends the following 
amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                            FY 2027
          Budget Activity            FY 2026  Enacted      Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Child Health and Development......        $71,300,000        $61,600,000
    Birth Defects ................         19,000,000         19,000,000
    Fetal Death ..................            900,000          2,000,000
    Fetal Alcohol Syndrome .......         11,500,000         11,500,000
    Autism .......................         28,100,000         29,100,000
    Other CHD Activities .........         11,800,000              - - -
Health and Development for People          85,410,000         87,510,000
 with Disabilities................
    Disabilities and Health ......         46,500,000         47,500,000
        Special Olympics (non-add)         20,500,000         21,500,000
    Tourette Syndrome ............          2,500,000          2,500,000
    Early Hearing Detection and             6,760,000          6,760,000
     Intervention ................
    Muscular Dystrophy ...........          9,000,000         11,000,000
    Fragile X ....................          2,000,000          2,000,000
    Spina Bifida .................          7,500,000          8,500,000
    Congenital Heart Defects .....          9,250,000          9,250,000
Public Health Approach to Blood            21,100,000         21,100,000
 Disorders........................
    Public Health Approach to              10,400,000         10,400,000
     Blood Disorders .............
    Hemophilia Activities ........          3,500,000          3,500,000
    Hemophilia Treatment Centers .          5,100,000          5,100,000
    Thalassemia...................          2,100,000          2,100,000
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome......          4,250,000          4,250,000
Surveillance for Emerging Threats          23,000,000         25,000,000
 to Mothers and Babies............
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Autism.--The Committee provides increased funding to 
include biennial reporting on the prevalence and 
characteristics of individuals with profound autism within the 
Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) 
Network.
    Blood Clots.--The Committee remains concerned about the 
significant economic and health impacts of blood clots on 
patients and the health care system, particularly among 
pregnant women, veterans, Black Americans, people over 50, 
cancer patients, and those with comorbidities. The Committee 
notes that most blood clots are highly preventable, yet public 
awareness remains low. Therefore, the Committee urges CDC to 
partner with patient advocacy organizations to increase public 
awareness of blood clots. The Committee further directs CDC to 
include in its fiscal year 2028 congressional justification a 
cost estimate of a nationwide public awareness campaign to 
prevent and recognize blood clot symptoms, and for education 
and training of health care professionals on the signs and 
symptoms of blood clots and how to prevent them.
    Cerebral Palsy.--Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common, 
lifelong motor disability caused by an early developmental 
brain injury. The mechanism and type of injury underlying CP is 
still not well understood, which can include perinatal stroke, 
maternal infection, genetics and/or hypoxic ischemic 
encephalopathy. The Committee encourages CDC to consider 
supporting efforts to expand scientific knowledge on the 
prevalence, risk factors, early detection, and co-morbidities 
of CP in order to determine if the CP population is rising, 
dropping, or staying the same.
    Disability and Health.--The Committee supports the National 
Center on Health, Physical Activity, and Disability (NCHPAD) in 
promoting the health and wellness of people with physical 
disabilities and mobility limitations. The Committee encourages 
CDC to support NCHPAD in expanding its partnerships with more 
jurisdictions.
    Fetal Death.--The Committee includes increased funding to 
support CDC's surveillance and stillbirth activities. 
Stillbirths are one of the most common and devastating adverse 
pregnancy outcomes. The Committee directs CDC to expand its 
stillbirth surveillance program to two additional sites for the 
purposes of informing prevention strategies.
    Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.--The Committee encourages CDC to 
build jurisdictional capacities to address fetal alcohol 
spectrum disorders (FASD) through the development of education 
and outreach activities, the dissemination of evidence-based 
prevention and support services information, and the 
availability of technical assistance to grantees.
    Fragile X and Fragile X Associated Disorders.--The 
Committee commends CDC's efforts to identify and define the 
population impacted by Fragile X (FX) and all conditions 
associated with the gene mutations with the goal of 
understanding the public health impact of these conditions. The 
Committee encourages the NCBDDD to support additional 
strategies to promote earlier identification of children with 
FX, such as voluntary newborn screening. The Committee further 
encourages the NCBDDD work to ensure populations with FX 
conditions are being properly diagnosed and made aware of 
available medical services. Finally, the Committee recommends 
the NCBDDD continue to support research across the lifespan of 
individuals living with FX and the associated conditions and 
disorders.
    Muscular Dystrophy.--The Committee provides increased 
funding to support muscular dystrophy research and monitoring 
initiatives. The Committee encourages CDC to focus on 
activities that leverage existing resources and provide the 
greatest benefit to the Duchenne community, including active 
engagement with external consortia to address the range of 
issues that affect adolescents and adults with Duchenne, such 
as bone, adrenal, cardiac, and pulmonary health, puberty, 
weight management, and fertility. The Committee notes that 
Duchenne has been added to the Recommended Uniform Screening 
Panel (RUSP) and encourages CDC to expand surveillance efforts 
to better track health outcomes of newborns with Duchenne. In 
States where Duchenne newborn screening implementation efforts 
have begun, CDC is directed to conduct an annual assessment of 
State implementation efforts, including identification of 
implementation barriers and laboratory standards. The Committee 
also prioritizes incorporating existing data from prior 
collection efforts into the next-generation data system. The 
Committee continues the directive included under this heading 
in the explanatory statement that accompanied Division B of 
P.L. 119-75.
    Spina Bifida.--The Committee recognizes that Spina Bifida 
is the most common permanently disabling congenital condition 
compatible with life in the United States, affecting 
approximately 1,500 babies each year. An estimated 166,000 
individuals are living with Spina Bifida nationwide, more than 
65 percent of whom are adults, reflecting significant advances 
in survival and the growing need for lifespan care. The 
Committee provides funding for the National Spina Bifida 
Program to support the continuation of the National Spina 
Bifida Patient Registry, including the Spina Bifida Clinical 
Care Monitoring and Tracking program, otherwise known as the 
Spina Bifida Collaborative Care Network, to guide the health 
care community in identifying and implementing best practices 
for the care of individuals living with Spina Bifida. Funding 
is also provided to support the expansion of the National Spina 
Bifida Patient Registry, for the inclusion of additional 
clinical sites and the examination of mental and behavioral 
health outcomes among individuals with Spina Bifida.
    The Committee understands that CDC intends to transition 
operation of the Spina Bifida Collaborative Care Network to the 
CDC Foundation and requests a briefing within 180 days of 
enactment of this Act on its plans for this transition, 
including governance, sustainability, and continued Federal 
oversight.
    The Committee further recognizes the substantial and 
growing need for CDC support to address the transitional and 
adult care needs of the aging Spina Bifida population, 
including the increasing incidence of serious secondary 
conditions such as bladder cancer. The Committee requests that 
the CDC provide an update in its fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification detailing its efforts to address these adult and 
aging-related health needs.
    Surveillance for Emerging Threats to Mothers and Babies.--
The Committee includes funding to support CDC's Surveillance 
for Emerging Threats to Mothers and Babies program. This 
program supports CDC's collaboration with State, tribal, 
territorial, and local health departments to monitor the impact 
of emerging health threats on pregnant women and their babies 
and to inform public health and clinical decision-making to 
improve maternal and infant health.
    Thalassemia.--The Committee continues to support CDC's work 
on Thalassemia, a rare genetic blood disorder that requires 
lifelong blood transfusions and associated chelation therapy to 
remove excess iron, particularly from the heart and liver. 
Thalassemia patients often experience serious comorbidities 
that can impact almost every aspect of their lives. The 
Committee urges CDC to continue examining the latest research, 
best practices, and programs related to Thalassemia with the 
goal of developing a strategic plan and blueprint for 
Thalassemia action.

                   PUBLIC HEALTH SCIENTIFIC SERVICES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $767,497,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       879,897,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       827,497,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +60,000,000
    Change from budget request........................       -52,400,000
 

    The Committee recommendation includes $739,553,000 in 
discretionary appropriations and $45,000,000 in transfers from 
PPHF.
    This account supports programs that provide leadership and 
training for the public health workforce, support 
infrastructure to modernize public health surveillance, promote 
and facilitate science standards and policies, and improve 
access to information on disease outbreaks and other threats.
    Within the total, the Committee provides the following 
amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Health Statistics.................       $187,397,000       $187,397,000
    Health Statistics                     144,453,000        144,453,000
     appropriations...............
    Health Statistics section 241          42,944,000         42,944,000
     of the PHS Act...............
Surveillance, Epidemiology, and           298,100,000        313,100,000
 Informatics appropriations.......
Advancing Laboratory Science               26,000,000         26,000,000
 appropriations...................
Public Health Data Initiative             185,000,000        230,000,000
 Modernization....................
    Public Health Data                    185,000,000        185,000,000
     Modernization Initiative
     appropriations...............
    Public Health Data                          - - -         45,000,000
     Modernization Initiative
     Transfer from the Prevention
     and Public Health Fund.......
Public Health Workforce                    71,000,000         71,000,000
 appropriations...................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Advancing Laboratory Science.--The Committee appreciates 
the work of the Advancing Laboratory Science program to deepen 
organizational ties with commercial laboratories. The Committee 
continues to provide funding to better position the CDC and the 
nation to respond to future pathogenic threats.
    Data Modernization.--The Committee recognizes CDC's 
continued progress towards the implementation of CDC's data 
modernization efforts to bolster the nation's health security 
infrastructure and readiness response, including through the 
One CDC Data Platform (1CDP). The Committee provides increased 
funding to strengthen the core of public health data; 
accelerate access to analytic and automated solutions to 
support health investigations; visualize and share insights to 
inform public health action; and advance more open and 
interoperable public health data. Increased funding is provided 
to bolster and expand data surveillance systems across 
jurisdictional public health authorities, the health care 
sector, and other key Federal partners.
    The Committee also recognizes CDC's efforts to engage with 
States, Tribes, localities, and territories through data use 
agreements for core data sources as well as key recommendations 
from the Advisory Committee to the Director Data and 
Surveillance Workgroup. The Committee urges CDC to prioritize 
support for jurisdictions with existing data modernization 
barriers, including those facing significant workforce 
constraints, interoperability challenges, and aging data 
infrastructure. The Committee directs CDC to provide a briefing 
within 90 days of enactment of this Act on the latest 
developments related to the implementation of enterprise-level 
public health data systems.
    Eating Disorders.--The Committee remains concerned that 
mental health problems among youth are at an all-time high, 
with eating disorders-related emergency room admissions for 
youth doubling during the pandemic. For 23 years, CDC conducted 
surveillance of the signs and symptoms of eating disorders 
within the Youth Risk Behavioral Surveillance System (YRBSS), 
but the YRBSS coordinators voted to remove the question from 
the 2015 survey. The resulting gap in data collection left 
public health experts and researchers with limited data to 
address eating disorders among youth. The Committee recognizes 
CDC's recent classification of eating disorders as an emerging 
and important youth health issue and its collaboration with 
partners to include a question assessing student eating 
disorders in the 2025 national questionnaire. The Committee 
encourages CDC to use these findings to help inform prevention 
strategies for eating disorders.
    Surveillance, Epidemiology, and Informatics.--The 
surveillance, epidemiology, and informatics programs are the 
CDC's critical public health surveillance platforms programs, 
including syndromic data and case reporting at the Federal, 
State, and local level that provide vital information about the 
nation's health. The increase provides continued support of 
broad, State-based surveys used across health conditions and 
risk factors, for both ongoing programs and CDC emergency 
responses. These systems continuously monitor a wide range of 
risk factors, providing health authorities with real-time data 
to identify emerging threats and track trends over time. Early 
detection of these risk factors enables timely interventions, 
which can prevent diseases from spreading or becoming more 
severe. Advancing capabilities for health information exchange 
will improve CDC's and jurisdictions' ability to better use 
longitudinal health data for essential public and population 
health uses, which benefits all of the Department.
    National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 
(NHANES).--The Committee recognizes the key role NHANES plays 
in assessing the health and nutritional status of Americans, 
including by tracking disease prevalence, dietary patterns, 
environmental exposures, and health outcomes for different 
populations. The Committee is concerned with declining response 
rates, and requests a briefing within 90 days on CDC's work to 
improve respondent participation,
    National Neurological Conditions Surveillance System.--The 
Committee provides $5,000,000, which is the same as the fiscal 
year 2026 enacted level, to continue efforts on the two initial 
conditions regarding multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's 
disease.
    Primary Immunodeficiencies.--The Committee provides 
$3,500,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, for education, awareness, and genetic sequencing 
surveillance related to primary immunodeficiencies. This 
program has proven effective in identifying undiagnosed 
patients and linking them to centers of care.

                          ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $242,850,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       162,350,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       241,850,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        -1,000,000
    Change from budget request........................       +79,500,000
 

    The Committee recommendation includes $190,850,000 in 
discretionary appropriations and $51,000,000 in transfers from 
PPHF.
    Programs supported within Environmental Health conduct 
surveillance and data collection to detect and address emerging 
pathogens and environmental toxins that pose significant 
challenges to public health, as well as determine whether and 
at what level of exposure these substances are harmful to 
humans.
    Within the total, the Committee provides the following 
amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Environmental Health Laboratory...        $70,750,000        $75,750,000
    Environmental Health                   48,500,000         53,500,000
     Laboratory appropriations....
    Newborn Screening Quality              21,000,000         21,000,000
     Assurance Program
     appropriations...............
    Newborn Screening/Severe                1,250,000          1,250,000
     Combined Immunodeficiency
     Diseases appropriations......
Environmental Health Activities...         48,600,000         41,600,000
    Environmental Health                   17,000,000         17,000,000
     appropriations...............
    Safe Water appropriations.....          8,600,000          8,600,000
    Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis          10,000,000         13,000,000
     (ALS) Registry appropriations
    Climate and Health                     10,000,000              - - -
     appropriations...............
    Trevor's Law appropriations...          3,000,000          3,000,000
Environmental and Health Outcome           34,000,000         34,000,000
 Tracking Network appropriations..
Asthma appropriations.............         33,500,000         34,500,000
Lead Exposure Registry                      5,000,000          5,000,000
 appropriations...................
Childhood Lead Poisoning Transfer          51,000,000         51,000,000
 from the Prevention and Public
 Health Fund......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).-- The Committee 
continues to support the National ALS Registry and 
Biorepository. The Committee notes that ALS prevalence is 
projected to rise from 9.68 per 100,000 Americans in 2024 to 
11.21 per 100,000, resulting in an estimated additional 9,000 
individuals affected by this disease. The Committee directs CDC 
to continue investing in ALS research to identify risk factors; 
develop strategies to mitigate its future impact on patients, 
families, and the nation's health care system; and reduce ALS 
incidence through prevention and risk mitigation strategies for 
civilians, active military personnel and veterans in the United 
States. The Committee further directs CDC to continue 
collaborating with the DOD and Veterans Affairs to provide a 
publicly available report within 180 days of enactment of this 
Act. The report should include incidence and prevalence data on 
ALS among military veterans and a strategy to develop and test 
risk reduction approaches that will lower ALS incidence among 
active-duty personnel and veterans.
    Asthma.--The Committee recognizes the significance of 
asthma as a chronic disease with implications for public 
health, productivity at work and at school, and healthcare 
utilization. The Committee notes that the FDA has recognized a 
shortage of albuterol sulfate inhalation solutions since 2022. 
Access to inhalers is critical for preventing hospitalization 
of patients with asthma and other chronic respiratory diseases. 
The Committee urges the Department to prioritize interagency 
coordination to ensure inhalers remain accessible to patients. 
The Committee also continues the directives included under this 
heading in the House Report 119-271.
    Climate and Health.--The Committee provides no funding for 
climate and health related activities.
    Pediatric Reference Intervals (PRIs).--The Committee 
provides $5,000,000 under Environmental Health Laboratory 
appropriations to develop and implement universal PRIs for use 
by all laboratories and health care providers. The Committee 
acknowledges CDC's efforts to prevent, detect, and treat 
chronic diseases in children. However, the Committee is 
concerned that the current patchwork of PRI practices does not 
adequately account for biological development in children, 
which can lead to misdiagnosis, preventable deaths, 
disabilities, and other irreversible health problems. PRIs are 
a critical tools for assessing health, making correct 
diagnoses, and evaluating treatment efficacy in pediatric 
patients. The Committee requests an update in the fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification on these efforts.
    Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome.--The Committee 
encourages CDC to dedicate funding toward establishing 
standardized reference intervals for polyendocrine metabolic 
ovarian syndrome (PMOS) hormone tests in women, adolescents, 
and girls, particularly testosterone, antimullerian hormone, 
and others. This effort aims to enhance diagnostic precision, 
improve the reliability of clinical and research data, and 
support earlier diagnosis and more effective management, 
ultimately driving better health outcomes for those affected by 
PMOS and saving healthcare costs.

                     INJURY PREVENTION AND CONTROL

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $761,379,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       588,329,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       705,829,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -55,550,000
    Change from budget request........................      +117,500,000
 

    Within the total, the Committee recommends the following 
amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                            FY 2027
          Budget Activity            FY 2026  Enacted      Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Intentional Injury................       $164,550,000       $149,450,000
    Domestic Violence and Sexual           38,200,000         39,200,000
     Violence.....................
        Child Maltreatment (non-            7,250,000          7,250,000
         add).....................
        Child Sexual Abuse                  3,000,000          4,000,000
         Prevention (non-add).....
    Youth Violence Prevention.....         18,100,000              - - -
    Domestic Violence Community             7,500,000          7,500,000
     Projects.....................
    Rape Prevention ..............         61,750,000         61,750,000
    Suicide Prevention ...........         30,000,000         32,000,000
    Adverse Childhood Experiences           9,000,000          9,000,000
National Violent Death Reporting           24,500,000         24,500,000
 System ..........................
Unintentional Injury..............         13,300,000         15,300,000
    Traumatic Brain Injury .......          8,250,000          9,250,000
    Elderly Falls ................          3,050,000          4,050,000
    Drowning .....................          2,000,000          2,000,000
Injury Prevention Activities......         29,950,000              - - -
Opioid Overdose Prevention and            505,579,000        505,579,000
 Surveillance.....................
Injury Control Research Centers...         11,000,000         11,000,000
Firearm Injury and Mortality               12,500,000              - - -
 Prevention Research..............
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome in Youth.--The Committee 
is increasingly concerned by the rise in reported cases of 
cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS)--a condition associated 
with prolonged, high-potency cannabis use that leads to severe 
nausea and vomiting. With the growth of high-THC vaping 
products and their increasing use among adolescents, the 
Committee believes further study is warranted. The Committee 
instructs CDC to complete the directive under this heading in 
the explanatory statement that accompanied Division B of P.L. 
119-75.
    Drowning Prevention.--The Committee includes funding to 
prevent fatal drownings and drowning-related injuries. Drowning 
is the leading cause of death among children ages 1-4 and the 
second leading cause of unintentional death among children ages 
5-14. The Committee recognizes that nonfatal drownings can 
cause serious long-term injuries, including hypoxic-ischemic 
brain injury, aspiration pneumonia, and acute respiratory 
distress syndrome. This funding will enable CDC to scale proven 
drowning prevention programs--such as those outlined in the 
U.S. National Water Safety Action Plan--with national 
organizations serving youth at greater risk of drowning or 
drowning-related injury, including those in rural and 
underserved communities and children with autism spectrum 
disorder.
    Firearm Research.--The Committee notes the CDC's historic 
avoidance of research into the crimes and fatalities prevented 
through self-defense with a firearm and therefore provides no 
funding for firearm research.
    National Poison Data System.--The committee urges CDC to 
continue to partnership with the National Poison Data System to 
support real-time monitoring of chemical exposures and public 
health hazards.
    Opioid Overdose Prevention and Surveillance.--The Committee 
supports CDC's activities that promote effective strategies to 
reduce addiction and overdose deaths and maintains limits on 
administrative costs to ensure funding primarily supports 
prevention activities. These activities include supporting 
case-level syndromic surveillance data, improving interventions 
that monitor prescribing and dispensing practices, enhancing 
the timeliness and quality of epidemiologic data, and 
strengthening coordination with medical examiners and coroners. 
The Committee directs CDC to fund awards to State, local, and 
tribal health departments at not less than the percentage of 
base funding provided for this program in fiscal year 2026.
    Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs.--The Committee 
understands that nearly all 50 States and U.S. territories' 
prescription drug monitoring programs are connected and 
securely sharing critical controlled substance information for 
the purposes of identifying and preventing abuse, misuse, or 
diversion of prescription drugs. The Committee continues to 
support all data-sharing solutions that address States' 
priorities and CDC's commitment to preserve State choice in 
selecting technology solutions that best address a State's 
needs. The Committee directs CDC to continue to work with 
states to maintain access to multiple platform options to 
support interstate and intrastate integration.
    Suicide.--The Committee recognizes that suicide is a 
serious public health problem requiring strategic suicide 
prevention solutions, especially among disproportionately 
impacted populations. The Committee further recognizes that 
suicide prevention requires a strategic public health approach 
that addresses multiple risk factors at the individual, 
community, and societal levels. States, Tribes, and territories 
are most suited to lead a comprehensive public health approach 
to suicide prevention, which demands effectively coordinating 
with multisector partners to take a data-driven, evidence-based 
process that addresses the broad range of risk and protective 
factors associated with suicide. The Committee provides 
increased funding to State public health departments to support 
the Comprehensive Suicide Prevention program, and to increase 
funding to Tribes and territories to build capacity and 
implement strategies to prevent suicide.

         NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $366,800,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        92,200,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       311,200,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -55,600,000
    Change from budget request........................      +219,000,000
 

    The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health 
(NIOSH) conducts applied research, develops criteria for 
occupational safety and health standards, and provides 
technical services to government, labor, and industry, 
including training for the prevention of work-related diseases 
and injuries. This appropriation supports surveillance, health 
hazard evaluations, intramural and extramural research, 
instrument and methods development, dissemination, and training 
grants.
    Within the total, the Committee recommends the following 
amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Occupational Research           $120,500,000       $120,500,000
 Agenda...........................
    Agricultural, Forestry, and            30,000,000         30,000,000
     Fishing (non-add)............
Education and Research Centers....         32,000,000         33,000,000
Personal Protective Technology....         23,000,000         23,000,000
Mining Research...................         68,500,000         68,500,000
Other Occupational Safety and             115,100,000         57,500,000
 Health Research..................
    Total Worker Health (non-add).         11,800,000         11,800,000
National Mesothelioma Registry and          1,200,000          1,200,000
 Tissue Bank......................
Firefighter Cancer Registry.......          6,500,000          7,500,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing (AgFF).--The AgFF 
program funds evidence-based research, training, and outreach 
that improves the health, safety, and productivity of workers 
in the agriculture, forestry, and commercial fishing sectors. 
These research collaboratives are especially important because 
AgFF workers experience the highest fatal injury rates of any 
industry in the United States. Additional research is needed to 
better understand emerging infectious disease threats; the 
safety and health benefits and emerging hazards related to new 
technologies and trends in agricultural production; AgFF sector 
issues related to rural public health, disaster preparedness, 
and response; barriers to mental health care for farmers, 
loggers, and fisherman; and other new and developing issues of 
concern. The Committee encourages CDC to increase research 
capacity for the AgFF program, prioritizing cooperative 
agreements that demonstrate industry collaboration and 
expertise in responding to emerging food and workforce health 
security threats, as well as research to help ensure workforce 
resilience, stability, and growth.
    Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).--COPD is a 
highly prevalent chronic disease and is a leading cause of 
death in the U.S. Although combustible tobacco use is the most 
important risk factor in the U.S., there are also other causes 
and about 14 percent is attributable to occupation. The 
Committee notes the opportunity for CDC's implementation of the 
COPD National Action Plan developed by CDC and the NHLBI. The 
Committee encourages CDC, including NCCDPHP and NIOSH to 
support surveillance and awareness activities on COPD through 
existing funding mechanisms.
    Deep Mining.--Within the funding provided for occupational 
mine safety and health, the Committee encourages CDC to partner 
with institutions with the relevant mining expertise to 
establish new safety protocols for deep mining that continue to 
foster U.S. innovation and reduce foreign reliance on critical 
minerals and metals.
    Environmental Exposures and Cancer in First Responders 
including Firefighters.--The Committee is aware that first 
responders have increased rates of cancer diagnoses and death 
relative to the general population they serve. First 
responders, such as firefighters, are exposed to a complex mix 
of known and possible cancer-causing chemicals through 
breathing hazardous substances and absorbing them through their 
skin. Despite an understanding of the risks associated with 
firefighter and first responders' environmental exposures, 
there has been no large-scale, systematic examination of the 
mechanisms by which the environmental exposures experienced by 
these frontline responders can cause cancer. The Committee 
encourages NIOSH/CDC to establish a Total Worker Health Center 
of Excellence to examine the health and safety of first 
responders, including addressing the cancer disparity among 
those in the fire service to build upon existing scientific 
evidence-based research to further develop new solutions and 
best practices for complex occupational safety and health 
problems such as the toxic exposures and higher cancer 
incidence rates in this population.
    Firefighter Cancer Registry.--The Committee recognizes the 
inherent dangers of firefighting and the importance of 
understanding and reducing the risk of cancer among U.S. 
firefighters. The Committee includes funding for CDC's National 
Firefighter Registry for Cancer as the registry continues to 
recruit and enroll participants.
    Lung Cancer Screening.--The Committee is concerned that 
only 24.5 percent of all those eligible are screened for lung 
cancer using low dose chest computed tomography scans. To 
improve screening rates, the Committee encourages the National 
Comprehensive Cancer Control Program (NCCCP) to work with 
States on targeted, cost-effective strategies that increase 
lung cancer screening rates. Tactics might include improving 
patient and provider education, increasing awareness of the 
screening criteria, and leveraging patient navigators/community 
health workers to reduce barriers to accessing lung cancer 
screening. The Committee also encourages NIOSH to support 
efforts to bring lung cancer screening to high-risk workers and 
to explore using low-dose chest computed tomography scans to 
screen for coal workers' pneumoconiosis in its Coal Workers' 
Health Surveillance Program.
    Education and Research Centers.--The Committee provides 
increased funding for Education and Research Centers (ERCs) in 
recognition of their important work to improve workplace safety 
and health by translating scientific discoveries into practice 
through effective education, training, and outreach. The 
Committee applauds the work of NIOSH to implement innovative 
approaches, and its translational research. The Committee 
supports the education and training of graduate and post-
graduate students, particularly in Industrial Hygiene, 
Occupational Health Nursing, Occupational Medicine Residency, 
and Occupational Safety. The Committee encourages the CDC to 
use such funding to expand Occupational Medicine Residency 
programs at new or existing ERCs.
    Total Worker Health.--The Committee is concerned about the 
adverse safety and health effects experienced by many vehicle 
mechanics and technicians across mechanical industries. The 
Committee encourages CDC to use a Total Worker Health approach 
to examine the exposures these workers face on the job, 
including physical and chemical hazards affecting their safety, 
health, and well-being. Research, workplace studies, and 
strategies for prevention and intervention should prioritize 
integrating protection from occupational hazards with workplace 
efforts to promote and improve health and well-being. Creating 
workplaces that focus on workers' physical and mental health, 
longevity, and safety is crucial for those in hazardous roles--
like mechanics and shop workers--and for the overall health of 
the nation.
    World Trade Center Health Program.--The Committee 
recognizes the World Trade Center Health Program's (WTCHP) 
critical role in providing medical monitoring, treatment, and 
research-informed care to responders and survivors affected by 
the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The Committee is 
concerned by reports of staffing shortages, delays in 
certifications and enrollment appeals, disruptions in 
continuity of care, and ongoing challenges within the 
Nationwide Provider Network that may limit timely access to 
medically necessary services.
    The Committee urges CDC to prioritize adequate staffing and 
administrative capacity necessary to ensure timely enrollment 
determinations, certifications, appeals processing, and 
uninterrupted access to care for certified members. The 
Committee strongly encourages WTCHP to strengthen oversight of 
contractor performance and provider network operations, 
including reimbursement timeliness, claims resolution, provider 
retention, and enrollee complaints, in order to improve 
transparency, maintain provider participation, and protect 
access to high-quality care. The Committee requests a briefing 
no later than 90 days after enactment of this Act on staffing 
levels, vacancies, average processing times for certifications 
and appeals, provider network participation trends, and the 
steps being taken to reduce delays and improve continuity of 
care.
    World Trade Center Health Program Eligibility.--The 
Committee recognizes that thousands of potentially eligible 
members of the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) reside 
outside the New York metropolitan area. In consideration of 
migration trends, and with a greater need to provide clinical 
services, in particular monitoring and treatment of WTCHP-
certified conditions and improve access to research within 
regions where eligible members live, the Committee urges CDC to 
implement a competition to award an additional Clinical Center 
of Excellence outside the New York metropolitan area. The 
Committee encourages CDC to prioritize geographic regions with 
a large concentration of WTCHP-eligible members.

                 ENERGY EMPLOYEES OCCUPATIONAL ILLNESS 
                          COMPENSATION PROGRAM

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $55,358,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        55,358,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        55,358,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation 
Program provides compensation to employees and survivors of 
employees of Department of Energy facilities and private 
contractors who have been diagnosed with a radiation-related 
cancer, beryllium-related disease, or chronic silicosis as a 
result of their work. NIOSH estimates occupational radiation 
exposure for cancer cases, considers and issues determinations 
for adding classes of workers to the Special Exposure Cohort, 
and provides administrative support to the Advisory Board on 
Radiation and Worker Health.
    Dose Reconstruction Program.--Within the funds made 
available by the Energy Employees Occupational Illness 
Compensation Program Act, CDC is encouraged to prioritize 
additional funding to the NIOSH Radiation Dose Reconstruction 
Program for scientific dose reconstruction activities for 
additional health physicists and continue to meet compensation 
timelines and expected applications.

                             GLOBAL HEALTH

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $692,843,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       663,843,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       663,843,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -29,000,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    Through its Global Health activities, CDC coordinates, 
cooperates, participates with, and provides consultation to 
other nations, Federal agencies, and international 
organizations to prevent and contain diseases and environmental 
health problems. In cooperation with ministries of health and 
other appropriate organizations, CDC tracks and assesses 
evolving global health threats and identifies and develops 
activities to apply CDC's technical expertise.
    Within the total, the Committee recommends the following 
amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Global HIV/AIDS Program...........       $128,921,000              - - -
Global Tuberculosis...............         11,722,000              - - -
Polio Eradication.................        180,000,000       $180,000,000
Measles and Other Vaccine                  50,000,000              - - -
 Preventable Diseases.............
Global Emerging Infectious                      - - -        190,643,000
 Diseases.........................
Global Public Health Protection...        293,200,000        293,200,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Global Emerging Infectious Diseases.--The Committee 
recognizes that, since the inception of the President's 
Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), CDC has served as an 
implementing partner, providing technical expertise and program 
oversight. The Committee directs continued coordination with 
the State Department's Bureau of Global Health Security and 
Diplomacy. The Committee provides funding to be programmed by 
the CDC Director to sustain in-country health security 
capacities with international partners, including global 
capacity for HIV/AIDS, TB, and measles surveillance, laboratory 
services, and related public health infrastructure and 
activities for the prevention, detection, and response to 
global emerging infectious diseases. The Committee further 
directs CDC to prioritize existing CDC international staffing, 
and to provide a briefing to the Committee not later than 90 
days after enactment of this Act on the status of its 
engagement with the Department of State, the agency's current 
global health workforce capacity, overseas staffing footprint, 
and plans to bolster core global health security and infectious 
disease response capabilities.
    Global Public Health Protection.--The Committee supports 
CDC's global health security priorities, including responding 
to public health emergencies, training and deploying 
epidemiologists, and strengthening country capacity to detect 
and respond to health threats. CDC's global health programs 
provide a critical frontline defense by identifying and 
containing public health threats before they destabilize 
partner countries or reach the U.S. The Committee directs the 
Department to sustain a skilled global workforce in partner 
countries with the technical expertise, field presence, and 
surge capacity necessary to rapidly respond to emerging health 
threats and preserve U.S. leadership in global health security.
    Parasitic Diseases and Malaria.--The Committee provides 
funding for parasitic diseases and malaria prevention related 
activities through the Emerging Infectious Diseases program 
line within the CDC Center for Emerging Zoonotic and Infectious 
Diseases.
    Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance.--The Committee 
notes that the Helms amendment prohibits Federal funds for 
abortions in foreign aid programs. CDC has responsibility for 
ensuring that recipients of awards made or administered by the 
agency, including those funded through interagency transfers, 
adhere to the terms and conditions of such awards. The 
Committee directs CDC to continue taking steps to ensure 
relevant grant management officers, grant management 
specialists, and programmatic staff are effective in adhering 
to the Helms Amendment.

                PUBLIC HEALTH PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $913,200,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       489,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       924,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +10,800,000
    Change from budget request........................      +435,000,000
 

    The Public Health Preparedness and Response (PHPR) account 
supports programs that build and strengthen national 
preparedness for public health emergencies, both naturally 
occurring and intentional. PHPR supports needs assessments, 
response planning, training, epidemiology and surveillance, and 
upgrades for laboratory capacity and communications systems.
    Within the total, the Committee recommends the following 
amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Public Health Emergency                  $735,000,000       $750,000,000
 Preparedness Cooperative
 Agreement........................
Academic Centers for Public Health          9,200,000              - - -
 Preparedness.....................
Ready Response Enterprise Data             30,000,000         35,000,000
 Integration Platform & Center for
 Forecasting Analytics............
CDC Preparedness and Response             139,000,000        139,000,000
 Capability.......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Emergency Preparedness and Response.--The Committee 
supports the CDC's efforts to provide guidance, technical 
assistance, and resources, including emergency preparedness 
epidemiologist and experts, to communities as they prepare for, 
withstand, and recover from emergencies. Increasingly complex 
and multi-state outbreaks, such as Measles, alongside major 
events and mass gatherings across the country, including the 
2026 World Cup, demonstrate the need for a nationwide public 
health preparedness infrastructure which provides local health 
departments the capability to rapidly detect, monitor, and 
respond to health threats.
    Response Ready Enterprise Data Integration (RREDI) 
Platform/Center for Forecasting Analytics and Outbreak 
Analytics (CFA).--The Committee provides increased funding for 
the RREDI platform to enable rapid information sharing across 
the U.S. government and with State and local health departments 
during a public health response. The Committee encourages the 
CDC to continue expanding enterprise response capabilities 
within 1CDP, including improved data sharing with Federal, 
State, tribal, local, and territorial partners. The Committee 
further supports CFA in its goals to deliver actionable 
analysis and response-ready modeling tools; generate practical 
decision support products; and drive technological and analytic 
innovation to guide public health action.

                CDC-WIDE ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAM SUPPORT

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $646,570,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       361,570,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       506,570,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -140,000,000
    Change from budget request........................      +145,000,000
 

    This account supports the Office of the Director as well as 
public health leadership and support activities at CDC.
    Within the total, the Committee recommends the following 
amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Public Health Leadership and             $101,570,000       $101,570,000
 Support & Office of the Director
 appropriations...................
    Office of Rural Health                  6,000,000          7,000,000
     appropriations (non-add).....
Infectious Diseases Rapid Response         25,000,000         35,000,000
 Reserve Fund appropriations......
Public Health Infrastructure and          360,000,000        370,000,000
 Capacity.........................
    Public Health Infrastructure          270,000,000        270,000,000
     and Capacity appropriations..
    Public Health Infrastructure           90,000,000        100,000,000
     and Capacity Transfer from
     the Prevention and Public
     Health Fund..................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Automated External Defibrillators.--The Committee strongly 
encourages CDC to support implementation of the Cardiomyopathy 
Health Education, Awareness, Research and Training in Schools 
Act, which provides funding for public schools to purchase 
automated external defibrillators (AEDs). The Committee further 
encourages CDC to assist States in expanding awareness and 
educational resources for schools and families to better 
identify and understand conditions that can lead to cardiac 
arrest in youth.
    Birthing experience and Maternity Care During Public Health 
Emergencies and Natural Disasters.--In the face of public 
health emergencies and natural disasters, pregnant and 
postpartum patients need to take special measures to ensure the 
health and safety of themselves and their children. To ensure 
patients and providers have accurate, evidence-based 
information on maternal and infant health risks during public 
health emergencies and natural disasters, with a particular 
focus on reaching pregnant and postpartum individuals in 
underserved communities, the Committee encourages CDC to 
convene a meeting of Federal; State, local, and/or territorial 
public health officials; tribal public health officials; and 
public stakeholders representing maternity care providers, 
maternal and infant health focused community based 
organizations, and patient voices to discuss measures to detect 
maternal and infant health need and measures to facilitate 
access and delivery of maternal and infant data during public 
health emergencies and natural disasters.
    Disease Modeling.--The Committee encourages CDC to work 
with schools of public health and other academic institutions 
to engage the nation's expertise in disease modeling, public 
health data analysis, research, and training to build workforce 
capacity in this emerging field.
    Food Allergies.--The Committee recognizes food allergies as 
a serious public health concern that affects children and 
families across the U.S. and can result in severe, potentially 
fatal anaphylactic reactions. The Committee encourages CDC to 
support school-based efforts to address food allergies and 
reduce the risk of allergic emergencies in schools.
    Human Health Risks Posed by Wildlife.--The Committee is 
concerned by the risk that imported wildlife pose to the 
introduction of zoonotic diseases to the U.S. Therefore, the 
Committee directs CDC and interagency partners to collaborate 
toward work on implementing Objective 3.5 from the ``National 
One Health Framework to Address Zoonotic Diseases and Advance 
Public Health Preparedness in the United States,'' which 
support the development, validation, and use of models and 
tools for assessing zoonotic disease risks related to imported 
wildlife. The Committee further directs CDC and implementing 
partners to provide a briefing on its implementation of this 
directive within 180 days of the enactment of this Act.
    Indoor Air Quality.--The Committee encourages CDC to 
conduct a study on how indoor air quality impacts pathogen 
transmission including how increased use of outdoor air 
ventilation, high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration, 
and germicidal ultraviolet (GUV) light affect such 
transmission.
    Infectious Disease Rapid Response Reserve Fund (IDRRRF).--
The Committee provides increased funding for IDRRRF to ensure 
that CDC remains positioned to respond quickly to an imminent 
public health emergency. Congress first funded IDRRRF in 2019 
to avoid the funding delays CDC experienced during prior large-
scale public health emergencies, including the 2014-2016 West 
Africa Ebola outbreak. Since its inception, CDC has utilized 
these flexible funds to respond to multiple domestic and global 
outbreaks, including the Ebola outbreaks in 2019, 2021, 2022, 
and most recently in 2025, when CDC worked with the Democratic 
Republic of the Congo to provide laboratory, diagnostic, and 
workforce capacity, and conducted case investigation, case 
management, infection prevention and control, border health, 
and risk communication and community engagement activities.
    The IDRRRF is critical to helping prevent future outbreaks 
from becoming public health emergencies. Therefore, the 
Committee directs CDC to provide a detailed spend plan of the 
planned uses of funds, including a narrative description of 
planned and ongoing activities, within 30 days of enactment of 
this Act, and to provide quarterly updates on such plan for any 
active public health response. The Committee further directs 
CDC to provide a table to the Committee each month, which shall 
include all amounts available in the IDRRRF for the current 
fiscal year and the preceding two fiscal years, including: (1) 
each individual obligation above $5,000,000; (2) with respect 
to each such obligation, the notification to which it relates; 
and (3) the total amount unobligated in the IDRRRF.
    Local Health Departments.--Federal funding intended for 
both State and local health departments does not consistently 
reach local health departments beyond those directly funded by 
CDC. The Committee encourages CDC to require States to fund 
local health departments when programmatically appropriate. The 
Committee urges CDC to publicly track and report to the 
Committee how funds provided to State health departments are 
passed through to local health departments, including the 
amount and date funds are made available, per grant award, by 
local jurisdiction.
    Myalgic encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.--The 
Committee supports CDC's work related to provider education and 
public awareness for postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome 
(POTS) and other infection associated chronic conditions and 
illnesses of dysautonomia, common chronic conditions that 
impact millions of Americans and cause severe disability. The 
Committee is concerned that 28 States do not have a board-
certified autonomic specialist resulting in POTS patients 
facing on average a 5-year diagnostic delay and encourages the 
CDC to work with patient advocates, clinicians, and researchers 
to develop an education program for health care providers to 
increase access to care for POTS and similar dysautonomia 
patients.
    Obesity.--The Committee recognizes obesity as a serious 
chronic disease and public health and economic issue that must 
be addressed. CDC formally recognizes obesity as a disease and 
recommends that it be treated as such. Evidence-based 
therapies, including innovative and highly effective obesity 
medications (OMs) are available with others in development. 
Expanded access to intensive behavioral therapy, such as CDC 
recognized Family Healthy Weight Programs, and OMs, in addition 
to existent surgical procedures, not only provide significant 
weight loss reductions but lead to improved outcomes in over 
200 obesity-related health conditions including diabetes, 
coronary heart disease, and hypertension. The Committee 
encourages CDC to take a comprehensive approach in treating 
obesity as a chronic disease and find ways to improve access to 
treatment options. The Committee also encourages CDC to 
continue to collaborate with other Federal agencies who are 
already treating obesity as a chronic disease as it considers 
best practices to improve care for people with obesity.
    Office of Rural Health.--The Committee is encouraged by 
efforts from the agency to establish the CDC Office of Rural 
Health (ORH) and ORH's early initiatives. The Committee directs 
the agency to ensure that the established ORH will continue to 
guide CDC's rural health leadership across the entire agency. 
This includes by developing purposeful public health guidance 
for rural health departments, analyzing and developing 
initiatives to expand the rural public health workforce, 
coordinating with the Federal Office of Rural Health Policy 
under HRSA, and otherwise serving as a resource and technical 
assistance hub for public health in rural communities. The 
Committee includes funding for the continued efforts of this 
office.
    Peripheral Arterial Disease Prevalence (PAD).--Between 1995 
and 2020, PAD prevalence in the U.S. increased from 11,300,000 
to 21,000,000. Based on the aging population, by 2030 the 
number of individuals with PAD is expected to increase to 
23,800,000. The Committee encourages CDC, in collaboration with 
HRSA, CMS, and leading clinical and patient advocacy 
organizations, to establish a PAD education program.
    Public Health Infrastructure.--The Committee notes that the 
Public Health Infrastructure (PHI) program is intended, as 
described in the explanatory statement that created it, to 
support public health departments. Due to the historic failure 
of CDC to support Tribes and tribal organizations with this 
funding, the fiscal year 2026 agreement included a new 
directive that 3 percent of this funding be designated 
specifically for Tribes and tribal organizations. The provision 
of a stable, disease agnostic funding line will better ensure 
Tribes and tribal organizations are better equipped to 
coordinate together to save lives. The Committee directs that 
the CDC provide not less than 6 percent of such funding 
provided for fiscal year 2027 to Tribes and tribal 
organizations.
    The Committee is concerned that the provision of funds to 
national organizations and high programmatic assessment by the 
CDC has undermined the ability of the program to effectively 
support State, local, and territorial public health 
organizations and directs that not less than 70 percent of this 
funding be awarded to health departments.
    Reporting.--The Committee is concerned that CDC abortion 
surveillance reports, published annually in the CDC Morbidity 
and Mortality Weekly Report, lack adequate participation by 
States including incomplete submissions and even total 
nonparticipation. The Committee requests a report on the extent 
of data inconstancies; steps taken by CDC to improve data 
completeness; and recommendations for legislative or regulatory 
changes to achieve complete data.
    Sleep Health and Sleep Disorders.--The Committee recognizes 
that healthy sleep, like a healthy diet, contributes to 
positive health outcomes. The Committee notes opportunities to 
improve health and wellness through public health approaches to 
sleep health and sleep disorders. Therefore, the Committee 
encourages CDC to support sleep health and sleep disorder 
initiatives, including awareness and educational activities at 
the State and local levels. The Committee requests an update in 
the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification on these 
efforts.
    Survey and Other Data Products.--The Committee notes the 
proliferation of surveys and other data products related to 
mental health within CDC and across HHS. As part of the Fiscal 
Year 2028 Congressional Justification, the Committee directs 
CDC, in collaboration with SAMHSA, NIH, and HRSA to include a 
summary of all annual, biannual, quadrennial surveys or other 
data products related to mental health.
    Youth Electronic Cigarette Use.--The Committee recognizes 
the growing challenge that schools undergo by increased use of 
electronic cigarettes and other vaporizing equipment in their 
facilities. These concerns often cause schools to lock bathroom 
doors to prevent their use, but this can also pose a safety 
risk. The Committee understands that there are commercially 
available technologies that can detect vape smoke, THC, and 
sound abnormalities in areas where cameras cannot be placed. 
The Committee encourages CDC to clarify that funds may be used 
for innovative detection technologies, and the Committee 
encourages CDC to work with States and school districts to 
increase awareness of this technology.
    Youth Sports Injury Prevention Education.--Across the 
country, communities continue to recognize the importance of 
physical activity to maintain health, resulting in rapidly 
growing youth sports activities. The Committee recognizes CDC's 
Traumatic Brain Injury program for maintaining and updating 
free educational resources and concussion prevention trainings 
for coaches and parents of youth athletes through its HEADS UP 
campaign. Additional research and education are needed to 
examine sport and recreation injury across various activities 
and demographic groups, in addition to age-related education 
for prevention and management. Therefore, the Committee 
provides increased funding to coordinate with respective State 
health departments to develop public service announcements to 
educate volunteer coaches and parents of children and youth 
(ages 5-17) on the risks and means to prevent and manage 
sports-related injuries.

                        BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $40,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        40,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        40,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    This account supports capital projects as well as repairs 
and improvements to restore, maintain, and improve CDC's assets 
and facilities. The Committee provides funding to continue 
making progress on CDC's backlog of maintenance and repairs, 
including at its Atlanta campuses.
    The Committee continues language to allow CDC to retain 
unobligated funds in the Individual Learning Accounts from 
departed employees to support the replacement of the 
underground and surface coal mine safety and health research 
facility.

                  National Institutes of Health (NIH)


 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................   $48,716,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................    42,967,953,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        48,816,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      +100,000,000
    Change from budget request........................    +5,848,047,000
 

    The mission of NIH is to seek fundamental knowledge about 
the nature and behavior of living systems and the application 
of that knowledge to enhance health, lengthen life, and reduce 
illness and disability. NIH conducts and supports research to 
understand the basic biology of human health and disease; apply 
this understanding towards designing new approaches for 
preventing, diagnosing, and treating disease and disability; 
and ensure that these approaches are widely available.
    The Committee recommendation for the NIH program level is 
$48,816,000,000 which includes $1,500,000,000 in funding for 
the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H). 
Excluding ARPA-H, the Committee provides $45,888,518,000 in 
discretionary appropriations for the Institutes and Centers of 
NIH and $1,427,482,000 in PHS Act section 241 evaluation set 
aside transfers.
    The Committee recommendation supports increased investments 
in NIH-funded research, to drive more scientific discoveries 
that translate into improved health for all Americans and to 
maintain U.S. leadership in biomedical research. The 
recommendation provides both broad-based funding increases, for 
NCI, NHLBI, NIDCR, NIDDK, NINDS, and NIAID, as well as targeted 
increases to make more resources available for NIH-funded 
research in specific areas or initiatives.
    The Committee commends the NIH for its commitment and 
ongoing actions aimed at restoring public trust in the 
institution and in the scientific research it supports both 
intramurally and extramurally. Such efforts include 
prioritizing rigor and replication for Federally funded 
research, ensuring increased oversight of NIH grants, and a 
renewed standard that Federal research investments must drive 
measurable improvements in the health of all Americans. NIH 
maintains a critical role in advancing our scientific 
understanding of human health and disease to improve overall 
health outcomes. The Committee appreciates NIH's efforts to 
remain nimble in response to rapidly evolving science and open 
to incorporating new tools and technologies, adhere to its 
fundamental mission, and steward Federal taxpayer dollars 
responsibly. It is equally vital for U.S. competitiveness that 
the NIH remains the world pioneer in basic scientific and 
biomedical research. The Committee looks forward to continuing 
to work with the Administration and NIH to advance these goals.

                       NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $7,352,159,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     7,353,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     7,462,159,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      +110,000,000
    Change from budget request........................      +109,159,000
 

    Mission.--NCI leads, conducts, and supports cancer research 
across the nation to advance scientific knowledge and help all 
people live longer, healthier lives.
    Breast Cancer Screening Evidence Gaps.--The United States 
Preventive Services Task Force (Task Force) breast cancer 
screening recommendation statement, published in April 2024, 
identifies several critical research gaps that restrict the 
Task Force from making evidence-based recommendations that 
address multiple important areas. For example, the Task Force 
notes that research is needed: to better understand whether and 
how the benefits quantitatively differ for annual vs. biennial 
breast cancer screening; to help clinicians and patients 
understand the best strategy for breast cancer screening in 
women found to have dense breasts on a screening mammogram, 
such as supplemental screening; and to understand and address 
the higher breast cancer mortality among Black women. Breast 
cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the 
U.S., and over 40,000 women are expected to die from breast 
cancer in 2026. For the Task Force to fulfill its mission to 
improve health through actionable preventive services 
recommendations, the Committee urges the NIH to continue to 
support research in the areas outlined in the Evidence Gaps 
Research Taxonomy Table from the USPSTF's 2024 Breast Cancer 
Screening Recommendation Statement to ensure the Task Force has 
the necessary evidence to create the strongest evidence-based 
recommendations for all women and further reduce breast cancer 
morbidity and mortality, especially among those with the 
greatest burden of disease. The Committee encourages that these 
efforts should continue to prioritize the inclusion of women of 
all racial and ethnic groups to investigate whether the 
effectiveness of screening, diagnosis, and treatment vary by 
group. The Committee requests an update on this effort in the 
fiscal year 2028 congressional justification.
    Cancer Centers.--The Committee recognizes the role of NIH 
designated cancer centers in supporting high-quality, 
interdisciplinary cancer research with the goal of reducing 
cancer incidence, mortality, and morbidity. This support 
facilitates coordination across a broad spectrum of research--
from basic laboratory science to clinical investigation and 
population health--by strengthening the organizational capacity 
of cancer centers nationwide. The Committee encourages 
continued support of these efforts.
    Cancer Clinical Trials.--Clinical Cancer trials are pivotal 
to translating scientific discoveries into new medications and 
treatment options for patients. Clinical trials rely on 
successful recruitment and enrollment of patients, yet the 
Committee is concerned that clinical trials remain out of reach 
for many Americans, with only 7 percent of patients with cancer 
participating in clinical trials. Lengthy time to trial 
activation can prevent trials from meeting accrual goals and 
slow innovation, and navigating complex regulatory systems can 
contribute to delays in activating clinical trials. The 
Committee urges NCI to include an update in the fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification on how it is addressing 
barriers to aid NCI-designated cancer centers in improving time 
to trial activation and accrual. The Committee also notes that 
the lack of genomic variance in cancer clinical trials is 
compromising our ability to understand how certain cancers 
affect populations differently and hindering the development of 
treatment and therapies. Therefore, the Committee encourages 
this update to also include information on efforts to ensure 
participation of underrepresented populations in clinical 
trials.
    Cancer Immunotherapy.--The Committee is aware of emerging 
personalized dendritic and other promising cell--based 
therapeutic platforms with the potential to improve immune-
mediated treatment responses across multiple cancer types. The 
Committee encourages NCI to consider expanded support for 
translational, manufacturing, and clinical evaluation efforts 
that advance these broadly applicable patient-derived 
immunotherapy strategies toward scalable, multi-center 
implementation.
    Cancer Survivorship Research.--Significant advancements in 
early detection and treatments of many cancers have resulted in 
a rapidly growing community of individuals living with and 
beyond a diagnosis. There are currently more than 18.6 million 
cancer survivors in the U.S., and for many, cancer can become a 
chronic condition. The Committee encourages continued support 
by NIH in cancer survivorship research, including essential 
elements of survivorship care.
    Cancer Vaccines.--While much progress has been made in the 
study of mRNA cancer vaccines, and the mRNA vaccine platform 
continues to hold tremendous potential in oncology, additional 
advances from ongoing research are needed to hasten the 
development of personalized cancer therapies using this 
technology. Findings from NCI-supported research will inform 
progress in this promising field. The Committee urges NIH to 
ensure robust support for research that moves the field forward 
for cutting-edge research for mRNA-based cancer immunotherapy, 
leveraging collaborations with interested parties. Areas of 
opportunity include enhancing immune recognition of solid 
tumors, overcoming immune suppression in the tumor 
microenvironment, personalization of mRNA vaccines, and 
minimizing adverse effects. These strategies have high 
potential for increasing the effectiveness for cancer 
immunotherapy treatment and prevention. Additionally, the 
Committee commends NCI's efforts to launch a public-private 
partnerships that intends to invest $200,000,000 in combined 
Federal agency and private sector funding to support clinical 
evaluation of cancer vaccines. The Committee requests an update 
on NCI's progress in these areas in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification.
    Childhood Cancer Data Initiative (CCDI).--The Committee 
includes no less than $60,000,000 for the CCDI, which is a 
$10,000,000 increase from the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. 
CCDI focuses on the critical need to collect, analyze, and 
share data to address the burden of cancer in children, 
adolescents, and young adults. The Committee supports NIH's 
efforts to advance AI integration in pediatric cancer 
diagnosis, treatments, and studies, consistent with Executive 
Order 14355, ``Unlocking Cures for Pediatric Cancer with 
Artificial Intelligence.'' The Committee notes the ongoing 
efforts of the CCDI Molecular Characterization Initiative, 
which collects data that is used to identify risk factors, aid 
in prognostication and treatment recommendations, inform 
potential clinical trial participation, and assist with the 
development of novel therapeutics for these diseases.
    Childhood Cancer STAR Act.--The Committee includes no less 
than $30,000,000 from amounts made available under this 
heading, the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level, for 
continued implementation of sections of the Childhood Cancer 
Survivorship, Treatment, Access, and Research (STAR) Act (P.L. 
115-180). This funding expands opportunities for childhood 
cancer research, improves efforts to identify and track 
childhood cancer incidences, and enhances the quality of life 
for childhood cancer survivors. While some progress has been 
made in pediatric cancer research--leading to a decline in 
childhood cancer deaths by almost 70 percent over the last four 
decades--cancer is still the leading cause of death by disease 
past infancy among children in the U.S. While survival rates 
for some forms of childhood cancer, such as leukemia, have 
increased to greater than 85 percent, the median survival rate 
for other childhood cancers, such as diffuse intrinsic pontine 
glioma, is less than one year. STAR Act funding supports 
critical research infrastructure, surveillance, and 
survivorship programs that fundamentally change the lives of 
pediatric blood cancer patients and survivors. NCI has been 
able to expand its efforts to collect cancer tissue specimens 
from children with cancer for which current treatments are 
least effective, making samples more available to researchers 
to develop the next breakthrough. The STAR Act funds important 
research to further our understanding of the complications 
survivors face later in life and of models to improve care as 
survivors transition to primary care.
    Colorectal Cancer and Early Onset Colorectal Cancer 
Research.--The Committee recognizes that colorectal cancer 
remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in 
the U.S. in individuals under the age of 50. The Committee 
urges NCI to continue supporting colorectal cancer research, 
including basic, translational, and clinical research and 
trials; improved screening and prevention strategies; and 
efforts to address disparities in access to care and outcomes. 
Additionally, the Committee is concerned about the steep 
increase in incidence of colorectal cancer among younger 
Americans and strongly encourages NIH to provide robust funding 
for research on early onset colorectal cancer. The Committee 
requests NIH include an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification on NIH research activities and 
funding into colorectal cancer, including early onset 
colorectal cancer, and research into effective therapies and 
treatments to reduce mortality.
    Deadliest Cancers.--The Recalcitrant Cancer Research Act of 
2012 focuses on cancers with a 5-year survival rate below 50 
percent, which account for over 40 percent of all U.S. cancer 
deaths. While advances in treatments of some cancers have made 
it possible to reduce the overall rate of cancer deaths, there 
has been limited progress in reducing mortality for these 
diseases. The Committee encourages NCI to continue its focus on 
these cancers, which include cancers of the brain, esophagus, 
liver, lung, ovaries, pancreas, stomach, and mesothelioma and 
requests an update on research focused on each of these areas 
in the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification. Further, 
given the high mortality rates for these cancers, the Committee 
remains concerned about reports of increased incidence of 
esophageal, liver, pancreas, and stomach cancer among young 
adults and adolescents. The Committee urges the NCI to continue 
to support research to understand the causes and risk factors 
leading to these increased incidences, as well as potential 
interventions, and requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification.
    Functional Precision Medicine.--The Committee has a long 
history of working to address refractory cancers and the lack 
of treatment options currently available when standard of care 
has been exhausted. The Committee is encouraged by the promise 
of functional precision medicine approaches to identify 
individualized treatment options more rapidly for hard-to-treat 
cancers, especially with minority populations. Recent data 
showing the clinical utility of combining patient-specific drug 
sensitivity testing and genomic profiling to treat refractory 
cancers has proven to be potentially lifesaving. The Committee 
supports efforts to further validate the clinical utility and 
accessibility of functional precision drug testing approaches, 
to guide therapeutic interventions and accelerate collaboration 
across research and clinical institutions in the nation. The 
Committee requests an update on this topic in the fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification.
    Improving Native American Cancer Outcomes.--The Committee 
directs NCI to continue its coordination with NIMHD on the 
Initiative for Improving Native American Cancer Outcomes, to 
ensure alignment of research priorities, dissemination of 
findings, and enhancement of cancer prevention and treatment 
strategies in Native American populations.
    Liver Cancer.--Primary liver cancer has a dismal 5-year 
survival rate of only 22 percent, is the 3rd most common cause 
of cancer death in the U.S., and, unlike most cancers, the rate 
of liver cancer mortality continues to increase. The Committee 
urges NCI to continue the use of program projects, cooperative 
research and broad agency announcements, and other contract 
mechanisms to develop, study, and validate promising and 
innovative approaches to liver cancer risk stratification and 
early detection, including new biomarkers, advanced imaging 
incorporating AI, radiomics, deep learning tools, and risk 
stratifying algorithms.
    Medical Imaging Technologies in Cancer Screening Trials.--
The Committee supports clinical trials conducted by the NCI to 
assess the potential role of blood tests to detect cancer in 
the body. Medical imaging, as a means of conducting a 
diagnostic workup following a positive assay and as a method 
for disease characterization, is essential to this clinical 
trial and assessment process, and is the current standard of 
care for validation of positive cancer blood test results. 
Imaging is a known necessity for a cancer diagnosis and 
treatment and should continue to hold a core function in the 
clinical trial process. The Committee encourages NCI to include 
imaging technologies and tools in these clinical trials, as 
they are the essential component of each precise cancer 
diagnosis and help ensure patients receive effective care.
    Metastatic Breast Cancer.--The Committee is aware that 
clinical research is of utmost importance to those living with 
metastatic breast cancer (MBC), which is breast cancer that has 
spread to other organs and become incurable. An estimated 
168,000 Americans live with MBC, and nearly all the more than 
43,000 deaths from breast cancer are attributed to this late 
stage of disease. Given the mortality associated with MBC and 
the lack of treatment options, research offers the best 
possibility of therapeutic advances and extended life for these 
patients. MBC is also associated with startling health 
disparities, since breast cancer mortality is about 40 percent 
higher for Black women in the U.S. than Caucasian women and 
breast cancer is the second most common cause of death by 
cancer for Black women. The Committee encourages a continued 
emphasis by NCI on research for MBC, to discover better 
treatments and a cure for MBC and to address health disparities 
in this population. The Committee requests an update on NCI's 
activities regarding MBC in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification.
    Metastatic Uveal Melanoma.--The Committee recognizes that 
metastatic uveal melanoma is a rare but challenging eye cancer. 
Up to half of patients who are successfully treated for primary 
uveal melanoma subsequently develop systemic metastasis, 
especially in the liver. Compared to metastatic cutaneous, or 
skin, melanoma, immune checkpoint inhibitors rarely work for 
metastatic uveal melanoma, and there is an unmet need for 
improving the management of otherwise treatment-resistant 
disease. The Committee urges NCI to support research into 
better understanding the mechanisms of disease progression and 
to expand access to early-phase clinical trials for metastatic 
uveal melanoma. Such efforts could lead to improved survival 
rates for these patients. The Committee also emphasizes 
approaches that preserve vision and prevent systemic recurrence 
after treatment of primary uveal melanoma.
    Natural Products Research.--Research shows that derivatives 
from natural products have been an important source of 
clinically useful anti-cancer agents, yet not enough evidence-
based research has been done to strategically identify those 
compounds that could provide potential benefits in cancer 
treatment. The Committee believes that it is important to fully 
explore whether and how natural products could be beneficial to 
patients in reducing the toxicity of therapy or by enhancing 
therapeutic efficacy as a primary or adjunctive therapy. 
Therefore, the Committee encourages NCI to expand its support 
of research to evaluate the potential value of natural products 
in reducing adverse effects of cancer therapy and in enhancing 
therapeutic efficacy through basic, translational, and clinical 
trials research. NCI is encouraged to seek applicants that have 
a demonstrated expertise in natural products research, can 
conduct a holistic review of drugs and disease states, have 
access to an annotated inventory of natural products, and can 
test the safety and efficacy of natural products in communities 
experiencing high rates of health care disparities in access to 
cancer care.
    Oligodendroglioma.--The Committee encourages NCI to 
continue its research into brain tumors, including rare tumor 
types such as isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutant 
oligodendroglioma for which no cure currently exists. The 
Committee is aware of recent advancements in the treatment of 
this cancer and that future research findings could be applied 
across other IDH-mutant cancers. Continued research into 
oligodendroglioma and other rare brain cancers can further 
advance treatments and ultimately produce a cure for the nearly 
15,000 individuals living with the disease.
    Pediatric Brain Cancer Research.--Pediatric brain cancer 
remains the leading cause of cancer-related death in children. 
The Committee is aware that in 2025, NCI ended funding for the 
Pediatric Brain Tumor Consortium (PBTC) and began transitioning 
early phase trials previously conducted by PBTC to the 
Pediatric Early Phase Clinical Trials Network (PEP-CTN), which 
is a larger network of early trials for all childhood cancers 
with the capability of expanding these PBTC trials to 42 sites, 
as appropriate. The Committee urges support of this transition 
to ensure PEP-CTN can utilize its expertise and shepherd this 
research portfolio. Because of the importance of advancing 
critical pediatric brain tumor research and building on prior 
investments and years of work, the Committee encourages NCI to 
consider ways to continue current trials in PBTC's pipeline, 
conduct analysis of highly valuable imaging, and continue 
support for immunotherapy trials for pediatric brain tumors. 
Additionally, the Committee encourages NCI to continue to 
support research and initiatives specifically focused on 
pediatric brain cancer and requests an update in the fiscal 
year 2028 congressional justification on the transition to the 
PEP-CTN as well as ongoing efforts to combat pediatric brain 
tumors, including any stand-alone initiatives.
    Pediatric Rare Cancer Therapeutic Development.--Childhood 
cancers are rare and need specialized treatments, rather than 
just lower-doses of treatments that adults receive. Each type 
of cancer requires appropriate therapeutic approaches to save a 
child's life or significantly improve quality of life and 
extend a child's lifespan, yet many types of childhood cancer 
do not yet have effective curative treatments available. The 
Committee encourages NIH to continue to examine novel systems 
for identifying how rare cancers develop and progress, and to 
continue to support and accelerate development and evaluation 
of life-saving therapeutics for pediatric cancer patients.
    Prostate Cancer.--The Committee remains concerned that 
prostate cancer, the most diagnosed cancer among American men 
and the second leading cause of cancer-related death, receives 
a disproportionately low share of Federal cancer research 
funding. It accounts for approximately 15 percent of all new 
cancer diagnoses and 11 percent of cancer deaths in men but 
receives approximately 8 percent of the Federal government's 
total cancer research budget. The Committee notes that when 
detected early, it has a 99.9 percent survival rate. The 
Committee encourages robust funding for prostate cancer 
research at NCI, including to support improved diagnostics, 
imaging technologies, and treatments for men with advanced 
disease.
    Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program.--The 
Committee recognizes the importance of the NCI Surveillance, 
Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program for building and 
maintaining a comprehensive, population-based database on 
cancer incidence, prevalence, and patient survival. The program 
provides valuable information used by researchers, clinicians, 
and others on trends in cancer rates, including for different 
population groups such as children, as well as information on 
the stage of disease individuals have at diagnosis and how that 
has changed over time. The Committee urges continued funding 
for SEER at levels necessary to continue nationwide cancer 
surveillance activities. The Committee particularly encourages 
continued assessment of the need for ongoing research in this 
area, especially in areas with high prevalence of cancer, 
including pediatric cancers.
    Theranostics.--Theranostics is a nuclear medicine technique 
that combines diagnostic imaging and targeted 
radiopharmaceutical therapies to precisely identify and treat 
diseases like cancer. This cutting-edge technology uses 
diagnostic imaging to identify and target cancer cells and is 
an innovative, precision medicine technique that allows for 
personalized treatment of cancers--such as thyroid cancer, 
prostate cancer, and neuroendocrine tumors--while sparing 
healthy tissue around the tumor. The Committee encourages NCI 
to support research that utilizes theranostics, and where 
appropriate, to provide early, accurate, and effective cancer 
diagnosis and treatment.

           NATIONAL HEART, LUNG, AND BLOOD INSTITUTE (NHLBI)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $3,990,345,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     3,699,975,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     4,013,345,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +23,000,000
    Change from budget request........................      +313,370,000
 

    Mission.--NHLBI provides global leadership for research, 
training, and education program to promote the prevention and 
treatment of heart, lung, blood, and sleep disorders and 
enhance the health of all individuals so that they can live 
longer and more fulfilling lives.
    Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency.--Alpha-1 Antitrypsin 
Deficiency (AATD) is a genetic condition and leading hereditary 
cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and liver 
disease. Current FDA-approved treatments are limited to plasma-
derived augmentation therapies requiring weekly infusion. No 
treatments exist for Alpha-1-associated liver disease, and it 
has been more than 35 years since the last FDA approval of a 
next-generation therapy. The Committee supports NHLBI's 
research into disease mechanisms and emerging therapeutic 
approaches including gene therapy, gene editing, and RNA-based 
therapies.
    Bronchiectasis.--The Committee is aware that bronchiectasis 
is a heterogeneous disease with multiple causes and that there 
is a need for research to identify various endotypes to 
determine specific interventions through precision medicine. 
The Committee encourages NHLBI to support the development of 
tests that would enable clinicians to predict this disease 
activity and appropriate treatment approaches.
    Cardiomyopathy Research.--The Committee encourages NHLBI to 
expand and coordinate cardiomyopathy research, as authorized in 
the Cardiomyopathy Health Education, Awareness, and Research, 
and AED Training in the Schools Act of 2024 (P.L. 118-176). 
Consistent with this Act, the Committee encourages NHLBI to 
research the causation of cardiomyopathy, including genetic 
causes and molecular biomarkers and long-term health outcomes 
in individuals with cardiomyopathy, as well as facilitate 
studies using longitudinal data and retrospective analysis to 
identify effective treatments.
    Chronic Lung Disease.--Chronic lung diseases, including 
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are among the 
leading causes of death and chronic illness in the U.S. COPD is 
also a leading cause of disability and a large contributor to 
healthcare spending. Most chronic lung disease research to date 
has focused on later stages of disease when substantial loss of 
lung function and damage to lung tissue have occurred. There is 
a need for treatments that, when applied early in the course of 
disease, can more effectively slow the progression and mitigate 
lung tissue damage. NHLBI supports a wide array of basic and 
translational research into these conditions, and additional 
support could improve our understanding of early disease and 
identify targets to modulate disease progression before 
irreversible damage has occurred. NHLBI-funded cohort studies 
such as the COPDGene and SPIROMICS projects have provided 
significant insights into the biology of early disease in COPD. 
The Committee notes the opportunity to test promising 
treatments in proof-of-concept clinical trials, including both 
new drugs and the repurposing of drugs approved for other 
indications, to identify appropriate therapeutic targets and 
generate the evidence to support later stage efficacy and 
effectiveness in clinical trials. The Committee encourages 
NHLBI to increase support for these and other early chronic 
lung disease research activities.
    Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults.--The 
Committee encourages continued support of the Coronary Artery 
Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study. The CARDIA 
study examines the factors that contribute to the development 
of cardiovascular disease and enables researchers to perform 
analyses of predictors of clinical events, study the 
progression of risk factors subclinical to clinical 
cardiovascular disease, and identify new risk factors or 
interactions among risk factors that inform disease 
pathophysiology.
    Longitudinal Studies.--The Committee encourages continued 
support of instrumental longitudinal studies that have created 
a tremendous knowledge base and data around human health, 
including the Framingham Heart Study, Strong Heart study, 
Jackson Heart study, and RURAL study. These studies have 
supported researchers' understanding of risk factors for heart 
attacks and strokes across generations.
    Mitochondria in Cardiovascular Disease.--The Committee 
recognizes that heart failure and arrhythmias affect millions 
of Americans, and despite advances in therapies, their 
prognosis remains poor. The pathogenic mechanism involves 
mitochondria, which are central to cardiac health, but due to 
their sub-micrometer size and structural and functional 
complexity, mitochondrial pathogenesis remains difficult to 
address. The Committee urges NHLBI to increase its investment 
in both preclinical and translational research aimed at the 
development of technology that makes mitochondria accessible, 
which could include functional and structural imaging combined 
with AI, and identifying mitochondrial disease mechanisms and 
mitochondrial targets for therapy.
    Mitral Valve Prolapse Workshop.--The Committee commends 
NHLBI for convening a 2024 workshop, to review the state of the 
science and identify research needs and opportunities for the 
treatment of individuals with mitral valve prolapse, including 
individuals who are at risk of sudden cardiac arrest or sudden 
cardiac death. The Committee urges NHLBI to continue engaging 
with subject matter experts and stakeholders regarding research 
needs and opportunities related to developing guidelines for 
treatment of individuals with mitral valve prolapse.
    Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome.--The Committee 
urges NHLBI to support research on the cardiovascular and 
cardiometabolic consequences of polyendocrine metabolic ovarian 
syndrome (PMOS), a condition affecting up to 15 percent of 
women. The Committee recognizes that individuals with PMOS face 
a significant cardiovascular disease burden that is not well 
understood or adequately addressed through current treatment. 
Research indicates that individuals with PMOS face an increased 
risk of cardiovascular disease compared to those without the 
condition. Additionally, the mechanisms driving cardiovascular 
risk in PMOS remain unclear. There is no single effective 
treatment for PMOS, and management is directed at specific 
symptoms and cardiometabolic risk factors in this population. 
Pharmacological interventions, however, have not been 
rigorously evaluated in clinical trials for cardiovascular 
outcomes. The Committee urges NHLBI to support research on the 
mechanisms underlying cardiovascular risk in PMOS, including 
longitudinal studies of cardiometabolic risk trajectories 
across the lifespan, and clinical research evaluating the 
safety and efficacy of pharmacological interventions to reduce 
cardiovascular risk in this population.
    Sarcoidosis.--Sarcoidosis is a rare disorder affecting 
multiple organs in the body, most frequently in the lungs and 
lymph nodes, and for some it can result in rapid deterioration 
of the affected organ and be fatal. Some individuals with this 
disease can manage it with medications such as corticosteroids, 
but some types of this disease do not respond to existing 
treatments. The Committee encourages NHLBI research into 
sarcoidosis to drive novel prevention and treatment options.
    Sickle Cell Disease and Sickle Cell Trait.--The Committee 
encourages NIH to further its clinical research in Sickle Cell 
Disease (SCD) and Sickle Cell Trait, which includes promising 
approaches to eradicate the disease, save lives, and 
dramatically reduce the substantial health care complications 
and costs associated with SCD for both children and adults. The 
NIH is encouraged to consider research into the effectiveness 
of screening technologies for infants and children with sickle 
cell trait and disease and research that could help spur 
innovative technology and medicines to treat and cure SCD.
    Sleep Research and Chronic Disease.--The Committee notes 
the recent progress made in sleep research, leading to 
innovative therapies, improvements in care, and better 
outcomes. The Committee further notes the efforts of NHLBI's 
National Center on Sleep Disorders Research and encourages 
enhanced collaboration with other Institutes and Centers, the 
U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, and other 
Federal research entities to seek new research opportunities, 
including as relates to neurodegeneration and pediatric chronic 
disease.
    Valvular Heart Disease Research.--Heart-valve disease 
occurs if one or more of an individual's valves malfunctions, 
and many people in the U.S. can have heart valve defects or 
disease but no symptoms. While the condition remains stable for 
some individuals and does not cause significant or life-
threatening problems, unfortunately more than 25,000 people die 
each year in the U.S. from this disease, primarily due to 
underdiagnosis and undertreatment. The Committee commends the 
NHLBI for its work in advancing treatments for those with 
valvular heart disease. The Committee encourages the agency to 
expand these initiatives to include research that advances 
technological imaging and precision medicine to generate data 
on valvular disease, identifies individuals who are at high 
risk of sudden cardiac death because of valvular disease, 
develops prediction models for high-risk patients, and enables 
interventions and treatment plans to keep these patients 
healthy throughout life. For these efforts the Committee 
includes $26,000,000, an increase of $3,000,000 from the fiscal 
year 2026 enacted level, in funding to the NHLBI for this 
activity.
    Wildland Fire Smoke.--The Committee is concerned that 
public health experts do not yet fully understand the risk 
posed by exposure to wildland fire smoke, particularly acute 
and chronic smoke exposure to patients with existing pulmonary 
and cardiac disease. The Committee encourages NHLBI to support 
research to understand the risk smoke exposure has for patients 
with underlying health conditions and interventions that could 
mitigate adverse health effects.

             NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF DENTAL AND CRANIOFACIAL 
                            RESEARCH (NIDCR)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $525,163,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       490,163,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       535,163,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +10,000,000
    Change from budget request........................       +45,000,000
 

    Mission.--The mission of NIDCR is to advance fundamental 
knowledge about dental, oral, and craniofacial health and 
disease and translate these findings into prevention, early 
detection, and treatment strategies that improve overall health 
for all individuals and communities across the lifespan.
    Community Water Fluoridation.--The Committee notes the role 
of community water fluoridation in public health as an 
effective, economical, and evidence-based intervention for the 
prevention of dental caries. The Committee is aware of concerns 
regarding fluoride exposure and its potential impact on human 
neurodevelopment and cognition. The Committee encourages NIDCR 
and other institutes at NIH already conducting research in this 
area such as NIEHS and NICHD, to support additional research to 
investigate any possible links between total fluoride exposure 
from fluoridated water systems and human neurodevelopment, 
cognition, and other health outcomes.
    Dental, Oral and Craniofacial Tissue Regeneration 
Consortium.--The Committee commends NIDCR for establishing a 
multidisciplinary Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Tissue 
Regeneration Consortium that is accelerating the development of 
promising treatments to regenerate tissues of the head and 
face. The program supports the advancement of potential 
treatments from early laboratory research through clinical 
trials and commercialization, aiming to develop combination 
cell-, biologic-, and device-based products ready for FDA 
submission and clinical use.
    National Dental Practice-Based Research Network.--The 
Committee recognizes the critical role of the NIDCR's National 
Dental Practice-Based Research Network, which unites practicing 
dentists and academic researchers to conduct real-world 
clinical studies that directly inform and improve oral health 
care. The Committee urges NIDCR to continue to support research 
to advance oral health.
    Oral Health Research.--The Committee reaffirms that oral 
health care and its maintenance are integral to the medical 
management of numerous diseases and medical conditions and that 
the lack of medically necessary oral health care heightens the 
risk of costly medical complications. The Committee appreciates 
NIH's support for research that has demonstrated that dental 
care is closely linked to the clinical success of other covered 
medical services and urges NIH to fund additional research in 
this area. Continued research on the causal mechanisms that 
link untreated oral microbial infections and chronic systemic 
conditions will provide clinical evidence that can be used to 
support coverage of medically necessary dental treatment in 
various benefit programs.
    Practice-Based Research in Dental School Clinics.--The 
Committee commends NIDCR for extending practice-based research 
into dental school clinics, through the Practice-Based Research 
Integrating Multidisciplinary Experiences in Dental Schools 
(PRIMED) initiative, which serves safety net providers and 
where oral health studies take place at the point of care. The 
program supports the creation of an academic multidisciplinary 
research culture as an integral part of dental education that 
will support life-long clinical research skills development and 
research experiences.

   NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF DIABETES AND DIGESTIVE AND KIDNEY DISEASES 
                                (NIDDK)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $2,326,721,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     2,159,629,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     2,348,721,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +22,000,000
    Change from budget request........................      +189,092,000
 

    Mission.--The NIDDK mission is to conduct and support 
medical research and research training and disseminate science-
based information on diabetes and other endocrine and metabolic 
diseases; digestive diseases, nutritional disorders, and 
obesity; and kidney, urologic, and hematologic diseases, to 
improve people's health and quality of life.
    Alpha-1 Liver Disease.--The Committee recognizes Alpha-1 as 
a leading genetic cause of pediatric liver transplantation and 
a contributor to adult liver failure. Therefore, the Committee 
encourages NIDDK to expand research into the natural history 
and progression of Alpha-1 liver disease, support development 
of non-invasive biomarkers for liver involvement, to coordinate 
with NHLBI and NHGRI to advance integrated lung-liver research 
strategies, and consider opportunities to support early 
detection strategies, including newborn screening research 
pilots.
    Chronic Kidney Disease.--The Committee notes the 
significant health burden caused by chronic kidney disease 
(CKD). According to the CDC, an estimated 37 million people, or 
more than 1 in 7 U.S. adults, have CKD. The Committee is aware 
that poor kidney function can lead to other burdensome or 
debilitating conditions. The Committee notes the opportunities 
for NIH-funded kidney research to advance early detection, 
prevention, novel therapeutics, and transformative approaches 
to kidney diseases. The Committee encourages robust support for 
kidney research at NIDDK and requests an update on such 
research in the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification. 
The Committee also encourages NIDDK to coordinate with other 
Federal agencies, such as ARPA-H, CMS, and the Department of 
Veterans Affairs, as appropriate, to accelerate high-risk, 
high-reward research and innovation, strengthen evidence 
development, and support models that facilitate the translation 
of kidney innovations into clinical practice.
    Diabetes.--The Committee encourages NIDDK to continue 
robust investments in diabetes research. The Committee 
encourages NIH to focus efforts on Type 1 Diabetes.
    Diabetic Eye Disease.--The Committee notes the connection 
between diabetes and eye health. The Committee encourages the 
Institute to engage with relevant ICs and stakeholders to 
identify collaborative opportunities to improve research and 
community-level intervention activities in diabetic eye 
disease.
    Prevention Research and Inflammatory Bowel Disease.--The 
Committee is encouraged by emerging research indicating that 
Inflammatory Bowel Disease--also known as Crohn's Disease and 
ulcerative colitis--may be detectable at stages early enough to 
enable timely interventions. The Committee encourages NIDDK to 
build upon this knowledge by supporting research into measures 
to prevent and manage the onset of disease symptoms and disease 
progression. The Committee also recognizes the need to 
establish nutrition research priorities, identify knowledge 
gaps, and better understand precision nutrition and dietary 
responses to address diet-related chronic diseases. The 
Committee urges NIDDK to support research focused on developing 
evidence-based dietary intervention recommendations to prevent 
and manage Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
    Special Diabetes Program.--The Committee notes the role of 
the Special Diabetes Program, which is supported by mandatory 
funding under 42 U.S.C. 254c-2, in advancing research on the 
prevention and cure of Type 1 Diabetes.

           NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS AND 
                             STROKE (NINDS)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $2,804,925,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     2,601,557,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     2,866,925,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +62,000,000
    Change from budget request........................      +265,368,000
 

    Mission.--The NINDS mission is to seek fundamental 
knowledge about the brain and nervous system and use that 
knowledge to reduce the burden of neurological disease.
    Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Expanded 
Access Grants.--The Committee notes that Amyotrophic Lateral 
Sclerosis (ALS) remains fatal, with most individuals surviving 
only two to five years after symptom onset. Federal investments 
can help increase the promise of emerging therapies, so that 
patients have access to and can benefit from these therapies. 
In addition to encouraging more research broadly for 
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), the Committee includes 
$85,000,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, to support expanded access grants as authorized in the 
Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Act (P.L. 
117-79). The Committee continues to direct NIH to handle this 
funding as separate from, not competitive with, other funding 
for research on ALS. The Committee encourages NINDS and OD to 
continue to strengthen the expanded access grant application 
process as discussed in the joint explanatory statement which 
accompanied the fiscal year 2023 consolidated appropriations 
Act. The Committee commends efforts by NINDS to engage 
stakeholders and grow the sustainability of this program. These 
grants support treatment with investigational drugs for people 
with ALS who are ineligible for clinical trials.
    The Committee further urges that safety and efficacy data 
generated through the Expanded Access Program be collected and 
structured to produce regulatory-ready evidence, ensuring 
therapies can move efficiently through approval pathways and 
reach all people living with ALS as quickly as possible. 
Furthermore, after the review and award of meritorious 
applications under section 2, the Committee recommends NIH 
apply any unused funds to programs authorized under ACT for ALS 
including section 3 public-private research partnership and 
section 5 Rare Neurodegenerative Disease Grant Program at FDA, 
as well as the NIH ALS Strategic Priorities.
    Additionally, the Committee notes the ongoing Access for 
ALL in ALS natural history study that has already enrolled more 
than 1,500 individuals, including individuals living with ALS 
and individuals at genetic risk to develop ALS.
    ALS Research and Treatments.--ALS is a rare, rapidly 
progressing, and universally fatal neurological disease. While 
there is no cure, recent scientific breakthroughs in gene-
targeted therapies, biomarker development, and precision 
medicine offer unprecedented opportunity. Sustained and 
enhanced NIH investment is critical to capitalize on this 
momentum, especially given thousands of Americans are being 
newly diagnosed each year. The Committee recommends an increase 
of $10,000,000 above the fiscal year 2026 enacted level for ALS 
research at NIH, to reduce the burden of ALS on people as 
quickly as possible. It is crucial for people living with ALS 
and those diagnosed with ALS in the future that NIH increases 
its ALS research portfolio, which also supports the overall 
research workforce. This additional funding could focus on new 
drugs for ALS, as well as on ALS diagnosis protocols, enhancing 
the quality of care, and studying new ALS biomarkers. It could 
also accelerate work on biomarkers, earlier diagnostics, 
improved standards of care, assistive technology, and gene-
targeted and disease-modifying therapies.
    Additionally, the Committee notes that NIH is the primary 
Federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and 
translational medical research and is investigating the causes, 
treatments, and cures for common and rare diseases. Expanded 
research into ALS can support more clinical trials and 
accelerate the discovery and development of new treatments. 
NIH-funded research has facilitated the development of 
diagnostic and therapeutic advances, and there has been 
significant progress in understanding what causes ALS.
    Alzheimer's Disease and Alzheimer's Disease-Related 
Dementias (AD/ADRD).--The Committee includes an increase of 
$25,000,000 above the fiscal year 2026 enacted level to 
continue to support AD/ADRD research at NINDS.
    Additionally, the Committee encourages NIH to consider 
approaches to address the rural precision health-gap. Such 
approaches could include multi-year studies into ADRD that 
examine topics such as biomarker-based progression trends and 
intervention approaches in at-risk rural populations.
    The Committee also notes the disproportionate effect of 
Alzheimer's disease on women, as women constitute two-thirds of 
people with Alzheimer's disease, and sex-based differences in 
risk exist beyond life expectancy alone. The Committee notes 
the opportunity for the AD/ADRD program planning to incorporate 
the study of sex-based differences in AD/ADRD, including 
understanding the array of endocrine, genetic, and other 
factors that may uniquely contribute to the risk of Alzheimer's 
in women, as well as differential treatment outcomes. Such 
information could inform the delivery of precision medicine-
derived interventions to individuals affected by this disease. 
The Committee encourages collaboration with the Office of 
Research on Women's Health in such planning. The Committee also 
encourages future updates of the AD/ADRD professional 
justification budget and AD/ADRD progress report to prioritize 
plans and reflect accomplishments in sex-based differences and 
brain health.
    Angelman Syndrome.--The Committee recognizes the importance 
of advancing research in Angelman syndrome, a rare neurogenetic 
disorder. The Committee is aware that ongoing gene therapy and 
gene-targeted approaches, including gene editing and CRISPR 
technologies, require robust natural history studies with long-
term follow-up to inform clinical development and regulatory 
decision making. With appropriate clinician education on data 
collection during follow up, real-world evidence and 
observational data collection can significantly enhance natural 
history study data. Natural history databases could collect 
post-market data with or in addition to sponsor data collection 
to ensure that data adds to the general understanding of the 
condition and the long-term impact of potential therapies. The 
Committee urges NIH to prioritize and support funding for 
natural history studies and real-world data collection in 
Angelman syndrome to establish critical benchmarks and 
facilitate the evaluation of emerging therapeutics.
    Blueprint MedTech Program.--The Blueprint Medtech Program 
aims to catalyze the development and creation of groundbreaking 
solutions for disorders involving the nervous system. A key 
aspect contributing to the success of this program is the 
support of technical, regulatory, and business experts and 
translational resources that are linked to innovator projects 
as they progress. The Committee encourages NINDS to continue 
its support for Blueprint MedTech and to maintain the program's 
integrated support model that is crucial for accelerating the 
transition of high-potential neurotechnologies.
    Brain Aneurysms.--The Committee remains concerned that an 
estimated 1 out of every 50 individuals in the United States 
has a brain aneurysm, and an estimated 30,000 Americans suffer 
a brain aneurysm rupture each year, often with little or no 
warning. Ruptured brain aneurysms are fatal in about 50 percent 
of cases. Despite the widespread prevalence of this condition 
and the high societal cost it imposes on the U.S., the Federal 
government spends only about $2.94 per year on brain aneurysm 
research for each person afflicted with a brain aneurysm. The 
Committee encourages NINDS to increase its support for research 
focused on prevention and early detection of brain aneurysms.
    Brain Research through Advancing Innovative 
Neurotechnologies (BRAIN) Initiative.--The Committee includes 
an increase of $6,000,000 to support the BRAIN initiative. The 
BRAIN initiative is an ambitious program to develop and apply 
new tools and technologies to answer fundamental questions 
about the brain and to inspire new treatments, cures, and 
prevention for brain diseases. NINDS and NIMH are leading 
partners in the initiative, working with eight other NIH 
Institutes, Centers, and Offices. The BRAIN Initiative has 
invested more than $4,000,000,000 in more than 1,700 research 
projects, engaging scientists from many areas of expertise 
including mathematicians, engineers, and physicians in 
individual labs and inter-disciplinary teams. It has fostered 
discoveries, collaborations, and partnerships to advance 
treatments and cures for brain and central nervous system 
diseases, disorders, and injuries. The Committee supports the 
BRAIN Initiative activities, as it promotes scientific advances 
that provide opportunities to understand the structure and 
function of the brain at an unprecedented level of detail, 
helping bring advanced treatments for brain disorders to 
clinical use.
    Cerebral Palsy.--Cerebral Palsy (CP) remains the most 
common lifelong motor impairment. The Committee encourages NIH 
to continue to prioritize and invest in research CP to 
strengthen and accelerate CP research priorities across the 
lifespan. NIH is encouraged to consider a Cerebral Palsy Notice 
of Special Interest. Progress has been made, but addressing 
remaining gaps can improve outcomes and treatment. The 
Committee further encourages NIH to assess opportunities for 
additional research and increased coordination and planning 
across Institutes. The Committee encourages NIH to focus on 
basic and translational research. Other areas of focus could 
include the mechanisms of injury, early detection, 
neuroplasticity, and lifespan outcomes.
    Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease.--The Committee commends the 
National Alzheimer's Project Act Advisory Council report from 
2023 that acknowledges the scientific connection between prion 
diseases and Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRDs), 
and the 2024 Update mentioning Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD). 
The Committee continues to encourage NIH to fund more research 
for prion diseases, such as CJD. ADRDs have benefited from 
prion disease research, and further integration of the fields 
could lead to new treatments and improved scientific 
understanding of these devastating diseases.
    Dystonia.--The Committee commends NINDS for making critical 
breakthroughs for the Dystonia community including its role in 
the development and clinical validation of deep brain 
stimulation. The Committee encourages NINDS to continue working 
with community stakeholders to explore emerging opportunities 
for advancements in Dystonia treatment.
    Early-Stage Neurological Disease.--The Committee recognizes 
the growing public health burden posed by neurological 
disorders and is concerned that current research and 
therapeutic development efforts are largely focused on 
symptomatic stages of disease, at which point substantial and 
often irreversible brain damage has already occurred, limiting 
the effectiveness of available interventions. The Committee 
urges NINDS to expand research on the presymptomatic and 
preclinical stages of neurological disorders, including the 
biological mechanisms, biomarkers, and early pathological 
changes that precede clinical presentation.
    Epilepsy and Tonic-Clonic Seizures.--The Committee 
recognizes that epilepsy is associated with increased 
mortality, risk of injury, cognitive injury, rates of 
disability, and other psychosocial impairments. Approximately 
one-third of affected individuals may not be treated 
effectively with existing medical therapy. Tonic-clonic 
seizures, formerly known as grand mal seizures, are the type of 
seizure that poses the greatest risk. Therefore, the Committee 
urges NINDS to prioritize research into reducing the burden and 
severity of these seizures. The Committee also urges NINDS to 
explore the pathophysiology of tonic-clonic seizures using 
cutting-edge imaging modalities.
    Epilepsy National Plan.--The Committee is aware of the 
enormous economic cost and toll in human suffering resulting 
from the epilepsies and considers research and improving 
outcomes in this area a high priority, as one in 26 individuals 
will develop a form of epilepsy in their lifetime. Despite 
epilepsy's prevalence, disproportionate gaps exist in research, 
innovation, awareness and care. The Committee directs NIH to 
continue to develop and update Benchmarks for Epilepsy Research 
following the 2026 Curing the Epilepsies Conference to help 
identify clinically meaningful research priorities to prevent, 
diagnose, treat and cure epilepsy and improve the wellbeing of 
people with epilepsy and their families. Not later than 270 
days after enactment of this Act, NIH, together with HHS, is 
directed to submit a report to the Committee describing the 
steps the agency will take to enable necessary federal 
coordination and engaging community stakeholders around 
epilepsy and develop a national plan.
    Friedreich's Ataxia.--The Committee encourages NIH to 
expand its funding of Friedreich's Ataxia research and 
accelerate its outreach and collaboration with other Federal 
agencies including the FDA to improve neurodegenerative disease 
research and treatment.
    Frontotemporal Dementia Research.--The Committee recognizes 
the critical role NIH funding has in advancing research on 
frontotemporal dementia (FTD). NIH-funded natural history 
studies, such as the ARTFL LEFFTDS Longitudinal Frontotemporal 
Lobar Degeneration (ALLFTD) Research Study, have contributed to 
important advances in understanding disease progression. The 
Committee notes that individuals with FTD frequently experience 
significant delays in obtaining an accurate diagnosis, limiting 
timely access to care and participation in research and 
clinical trials. The Committee supports ongoing efforts to 
advance understanding of FTD and encourages NIH to support 
research to develop biomarkers and clinical assessment tools 
for FTD to improve diagnostic accuracy, enable earlier 
intervention, and accelerate the development of effective 
treatments.
    Glial Cells.--The Committee recognizes that the study of 
glial cells shows promise for the understanding and treatment 
of diseases affecting the brain and nervous system. While most 
neuroscience research and drug development have focused on 
neurons, glia are central players in maintaining brain health 
and driving or worsening disease progression. These include: 
mylelin disorders (demyelinating diseases) such as 
leukodystrophies, multiple sclerosis, and Guillain-Barre 
Syndrome; neurodegenerative diseases; neurodevelopmental 
conditions; neuropsychiatric conditions; gastrointestinal 
diseases; and brain cancers. The potential for glia as targets 
to treat and prevent these diseases is significant and still 
emerging. The Committee encourages NINDS, in collaboration with 
NIA, NIMH, NIDDK, and NCI, to support this emerging area of 
neuroscience, to increase our understanding of glial biology 
and translate findings into new therapies.
    Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy.--The Committee is concerned 
about the additional progress needed in developing specific 
treatments for over 30 forms of LGMD, a devastating and 
disabling disease. Many individuals lack a definitive genetic 
diagnosis despite available genetic testing. The Committee 
encourages NINDS to support research to elucidate the 
underlying pathophysiology for different genetic causes of 
LGMD, including common biological pathways and protein 
interactions to enable the development of therapies that can 
target multiple LGMD subtypes. The Committee also urges 
development of rigorous natural history studies to support drug 
development and clinical care. Research identifying responsive, 
robust, validated and noninvasive biomarkers across both 
pediatric and adult populations can improve patient 
stratification, endpoint selection, and treatment timing. Such 
investments can support the FDA's biomarker qualification 
activities, enable fit-for-purpose clinical trial endpoints, 
and prevent unnecessary delays in the evaluation and delivery 
of emerging therapies.
    Morris K. Udall Centers of Excellence for Parkinson's 
Disease Research.--Established in 1997 by P.L. 105-78, the 
Udall Centers have a long tradition of conducting 
interdisciplinary research to advance scientists' understanding 
of the fundamental causes of Parkinson's Disease (PD) and 
improve diagnosis and treatment of individuals with Parkinson's 
and similar neurodegenerative disorders. The Committee is aware 
that the number of centers has fluctuated over time, and 
currently there are currently three funded Centers. The 
Committee notes the burden of this disease, with more than one 
million Americans suffering from Parkinson's Disease. The 
Committee understands that following a reevaluation of the 
prior Udall Centers structure, NINDS launched the Udall Centers 
Without Walls via a forecasted funding opportunity. The 
Committee commends NINDS for its continued support of the Udall 
Centers mission.
    Multiple Sclerosis.--The Committee recognizes that Multiple 
Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, disabling neurological disease and 
remains a leading cause of non-traumatic disability among young 
adults. While progress has been realized in treating relapsing 
forms of MS, there are limited therapeutic options for 
progressive MS, and the underlying causes of the disease remain 
poorly understood. The Committee encourages NINDS and NIAID to 
expand research on MS, including to better understand 
autoimmune mechanisms, risk factors, and the role of viral 
triggers. NIH is further encouraged to facilitate research into 
remyelination, neurodegeneration, and biomarkers that enable 
earlier diagnosis and improved disease monitoring. 
Additionally, NIH is urged to continue supporting clinical 
trials focused on progressive MS and to coordinate across ICs 
and other Federal agencies as appropriate, to accelerate 
translational research. The Committee requests an update in the 
fiscal year 2028 congressional justification on current 
research and opportunities to accelerate therapeutic 
development.
    National Parkinson's Project.--The Committee supports 
NINDS' efforts to continue implementation of the National 
Parkinson's Project, as created by the Dr. Emmanuel Bilirakis 
and Honorable Jennifer Wexton National Plan to End Parkinson's 
Act (Public Law 118-66).
    Neurodegenerative Disease Research.--In recognition of 
NINDS' leadership and sustained commitment to advancing 
neurodegenerative disease research and leadership of the 
National Plan to End Parkinson's, the Committee is aware of the 
need to expand research to address the needs of other 
Neurodegenerative Parkinsonian Disorders. The Committee 
encourages NINDS to develop research funding opportunities that 
address the needs of those living with Progressive Supranuclear 
Palsy (PSP) and corticobasal degeneration/corticobasal syndrome 
(CBD/CBS).
    Parkinson's Disease.--The Committee commends NINDS for 
taking critical steps in identifying priority research 
recommendations to advance research on Parkinson's disease, 
which is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disease in 
the U.S. The Committee recommendation includes a $6,000,000 
increase for NINDS-supported research into Parkinson's disease. 
Additionally, the Committee urges NINDS to support meritorious 
research in the following areas: (1) advancement of early 
detection and diagnostic capabilities, including the 
development and validation of biomarkers that identify 
individuals at elevated risk prior to the onset of disabling 
motor symptoms; and (2) development of neuroprotective and 
regenerative therapeutic strategies, including investigation of 
the biological mechanisms underlying the benefits of aerobic 
exercise and evaluation of emerging stem cell--based approaches 
aimed at restoring lost neuronal function.
    Stroke Research.--The Committee commends NINDS-supported 
basic and clinical research to improve stroke prevention, 
diagnosis, and treatment, and encourages continued research. 
Among these efforts are support for a stroke clinical trials 
network that enables discoveries of potential treatments for 
people with and at risk for stroke. NINDS-supported research in 
stroke has also helped increase the understanding of causes of 
stroke.
    Traumatic Brain Injury.--NINDS-supported research into 
disorders such as traumatic brain injury (TBI) advance 
scientists' understanding of this condition. Such research 
findings can be translated into better diagnosis and potential 
therapies for individuals with TBI. The Committee encourages 
ongoing support of meritorious TBI research.
    Undiagnosed Diseases Network.--The Committee recommendation 
continues to include $18,000,000 for the Undiagnosed Diseases 
Network, the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. The 
Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN) builds on the success of the 
Undiagnosed Diseases Program at the NIH Clinical Center, a 
nationwide network of clinicians and researchers who use basic 
and clinical research to uncover the underlying disease 
mechanisms associated with rare and undiagnosed conditions. It 
is estimated that approximately 25 million Americans suffer 
from a rare disorder. The UDN pioneered a new personalized 
medicine model for helping patients with rare and complex 
conditions that historically have been the most difficult for 
the medical community to diagnose, taking advantage of cutting-
edge technologies such as genomic sequencing, metabolomics and 
assessing patient variants in model organisms to give 
clinicians new, powerful information to help understand the 
cause of extremely rare diseases.

     NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ALLERGY AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES (NIAID)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $6,585,279,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     4,751,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     6,603,779,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +18,500,000
    Change from budget request........................    +1,852,779,000
 

    Mission.--The NIAID mission is to conduct and support basic 
and applied research to better understand, treat, and 
ultimately prevent infectious, immunologic, and allergic 
diseases.
    AIDS Research.--As part of NIH's broader AIDS Research 
portfolio, the Committee notes opportunities to conduct 
research in areas with a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS.
    Alpha-gal Syndrome.--The Committee is concerned by the rise 
in incidence of alpha-gal syndrome, an emerging allergic 
condition associated with tick bites that can cause potentially 
life-threatening hypersensitivity to galactose-alpha-1,3-
galactose. The Committee encourages NIH to increase efforts to 
understand the immunological mechanisms and natural history of 
alpha-gal syndrome, which could lead to new protocols, 
therapies, and tools for managing this condition.
    Antimicrobial Resistance.--The Committee continues to 
include $565,000,000, the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, to support antimicrobial resistance research (AMR). This 
funding supports NIAID research to combat AMR and the training 
of new investigators to improve AMR research capacity as 
outlined in the 2020-2025 National Action Plan for Combating 
Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria, strengthen clinical trial 
infrastructure, and enhance research on mechanisms of 
resistance, therapeutics, vaccines, and diagnostics. The 
Committee is aware of the challenge that antimicrobial 
resistance poses to public health, with more than 2.8 million 
antimicrobial-resistant infections occurring in the U.S. 
annually according to the CDC. The Committee remains concerned 
about this increasing threat, including emerging and drug-
resistant fungal pathogens that are resistant to or 
inadequately treated by currently available antifungal 
therapies. The Committee encourages NIAID to incorporate 
antifungal resistance and fungal pathogens into antimicrobial 
resistance research initiatives, including efforts to advance 
improved diagnostics, therapeutics, and prevention strategies. 
The Committee encourages NIAID's continued basic, 
translational, and clinical research on AMR. The Committee 
requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification on current and planned activities to address 
antifungal resistance and emerging fungal pathogens through 
research, innovation, and translational programs.
    Antimicrobial Stewardship.--The Committee understands the 
role of antibiotic stewardship programs in preventing the 
spread of antibiotic resistance in all healthcare facilities in 
the U.S. and across the world. In the 2020-2025 National Action 
Plan for Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria, one of the 
five goals was to Accelerate Basic and Applied Research and 
Development for New Antibiotics, Other Therapeutics, and 
Vaccines to improve understanding of the many factors that 
contribute to the emergence, spread, and persistence of 
antibiotic resistance and to support new strategies for 
preventing and mitigating infections. The Committee encourages 
NIAID to continue to advance its broad AMR research efforts.
    Antiviral Drug Discovery Centers.--Researching and 
developing new antivirals is essential for combating new viral 
outbreaks and preventing them from spreading into pandemics. 
The Committee supports the Antiviral Drug Discovery Centers and 
their mission to develop antiviral drugs to serve as our first 
line of defense against forthcoming viral outbreaks and 
encourages continued support to mitigate future risks.
    Celiac Disease.--The Committee commends the NIH for issuing 
a Notice of Special Interest to spur additional celiac disease 
research. While the only currently known treatment is a gluten-
free diet, recent research confirms that this is insufficient 
for many individuals with the disease. The Committee supports 
focused research celiac disease and encourages NIH to support 
new research on diagnosis, therapeutics, and management, as 
well as on improving understanding of the mechanisms underlying 
clinical manifestations of this disease. The Committee requests 
an update in the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification 
on celiac disease research, projects, and programs.
    Consortium for Food Allergy Research.--The Committee 
recognizes the serious issue of food allergies which affect 
approximately 8 percent of children and 10 percent of adults in 
the United States. The Committee commends the ongoing work of 
NIAID in supporting a total of 25 clinical sites for this 
research, including 15 sites as part of the Consortium of Food 
Allergy Research (CoFAR). The Committee includes $12,100,000 
for CoFAR, the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level, to 
support clinical trials and translational research studies with 
qualified collaborating institutions with demonstrated 
expertise in food allergy research and patient engagement, 
prioritizing projects that can rapidly advance prevention, 
diagnosis, and treatment of food allergy.
    HIV Vaccine Research.--The Committee notes NIH's 
longstanding support for HIV vaccine research and supports the 
agency in ensuring the pipeline from idea to funding does not 
slow down. The Committee recognizes the value of an HIV vaccine 
in preventing HIV and further notes efforts such as the HIV 
Vaccine Trials Unit and its partner clinical research centers 
located in 13 States.
    Lyme and Other Tick-Borne Diseases.--The Committee includes 
not less than $120,000,000, an increase of $10,000,000 over the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level, for NIH research into Lyme and 
Other Tick-Borne disease research. The Committee understands 
this increasing health concern in the U.S. and that NIH-
supported research can help advance development of reliable 
diagnostics and therapies to address it and carry out NIH's 
Strategic Plan for Tickborne Disease Research. The Committee 
also understands Lyme Disease accounts for the majority of 
reported tickborne diseases and encourages robust research in 
this area.
    Additionally, NIH is encouraged to increase they study of 
neurologic symptoms of Lyme disease, including in children, to 
expand the knowledge base and investigate novel treatments. 
Research could include multiple funding mechanisms to support 
areas such as basic mechanistic research on pathobiome-host 
interactions in the nervous system; translational studies on 
biomarker development and neuroimaging approaches to detection; 
persistent neurological dysfunction following treatment of Lyme 
and other tick-borne pathogens; population-based studies to 
document epidemiology and long-term outcomes; and innovative 
treatment approaches addressing the causes of infection-
triggered neurological disease.
    National Biocontainment Laboratories.--The Committee notes 
the roles of the National Biocontainment Laboratories in 
developing and maintaining research resources, facilities, and 
personnel to meet national biodefense and emerging infectious 
diseases research needs in the event of a deliberate act of 
bioterrorism or naturally occurring public health emergency. 
Research on high consequence zoonotic viruses requires high-
containment BSL-4 laboratories. Such laboratories enable 
researchers to safely diagnose and investigate these types of 
pathogens, and develop rapid and reliable diagnostics, novel 
antiviral therapeutics, and vaccines. The Committee continues 
support for these institutions to maintain the research 
resources for biodefense, emerging infectious disease agents, 
and other infectious disease threats to U.S. public and global 
health; training new researchers in biosafety level 4 
practices; maintaining a workforce skilled in BSL-4 research; 
and establishing best practices for the safe and efficient 
conduct of research in BSL-4 facilities.
    Pediatric Lyme Disease.--The Committee continues to 
recognize Lyme disease as a significant public health concern 
for children and notes that pediatric patients may experience 
distinct clinical presentations, disease progression, and long-
term outcomes compared to adults. The Committee encourages NIH 
to advance research on the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, 
and long-term outcomes of Lyme disease in children. The 
Committee is concerned about gaps in evidence related to early-
life exposure, infection during pregnancy, and infection 
acquired during infancy and childhood, including potential 
neurodevelopmental, cognitive, and behavioral impacts. The 
Committee requests NIH provide an update in the fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification on efforts to advance research 
in pediatric Lyme disease.
    Perinatal Transmission of Lyme Disease.--Additionally, the 
Committee remains particularly concerned about gaps in evidence 
regarding the frequency, mechanisms, and clinical consequences 
of perinatal transmission of Borrelia burgdorferi, including 
the potential for congenital Lyme disease and associated short- 
and long-term health outcomes. The Committee encourages NIH to 
support multidisciplinary research to better characterize 
congenital and perinatal outcomes, including studies examining 
in-utero exposure, pregnancy complications, neonatal outcomes, 
and developmental trajectories in affected children.
    Regional Biocontainment Laboratories.--The Committee notes 
the role of the 12 regional biocontainment laboratories (RBLs) 
have as part of the nation's biodefense infrastructure, helping 
the U.S. prepare and respond to emerging infectious disease 
agents. The Committee appreciates that NIAID competitively 
awarded the RBLs' operations support. The Committee continues 
to include $52,000,000 for the 12 RBLs to support core and 
shared resources for BSL-3 containment. No less than $3,000,000 
shall be provided to each of the 12 RBLs to support training 
and maintaining a capable research workforce with broad, 
relevant biomedical, technological, veterinary, and regulatory 
expertise, supporting operations, facilities, and equipment 
purchase costs. The remaining funding shall go to the 12 RBLs 
to support: (1) research on biodefense, emerging infectious 
disease agents, and other infectious disease threats to global 
health; (2) training new researchers, including in biosafety 
level 3 practices; (3) maintaining a workforce skilled in BSL-3 
research; and (4) establishing best practices for the safe, 
effective, and efficient conduct of research in BSL-3 
facilities.
    Tuberculosis Screening for Cadaver Tissue Donors.--The 
Committee is concerned about the continued risk of donor-
derived tuberculosis (TB) transmission through human cells, 
tissues, and cellular- and tissue-based products (HCT/Ps) and 
the lack of a standardized testing approach suitable for 
cadaveric donor matrices. The Committee encourages NIAID to 
continue funding scientific research into the development of 
new TB diagnostics, treatment, and prevention tools.
    Universal Influenza Vaccine.--The Committee continues to 
include no less than $270,000,000 for this activity, the same 
as the fiscal year 2026 enacted. NIAID's influenza research 
program is working to develop a universal flu vaccine, or a 
vaccine that provides robust, long-lasting protection against 
multiple subtypes of flu, rather than a select few. Such 
vaccines would provide protection against zoonotic flu and 
eliminate the need to update the seasonal flu vaccine each 
year. Universal flu vaccine research includes the improvement 
of current vaccines and could provide important foundational 
work in outbreak responses. In February 2018, NIAID released 
its Universal Influenza Vaccine Strategic Plan, which focuses 
on 3 research areas to broaden knowledge around basic influenza 
immunity and advance translational research efforts to drive 
universal flu vaccine development. The Committee requests an 
update on these efforts within 90 days of enactment of this 
Act.

         NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF GENERAL MEDICAL SCIENCES (NIGMS)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $3,269,679,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     3,248,381,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     3,299,679,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +30,000,000
    Change from budget request........................       +51,298,000
 

    The Committee recommendation includes $1,872,197,000 in 
discretionary appropriations and $1,427,482,000 in PHS Act 
section 241 evaluation set-aside transfers.
    Mission.--NIGMS supports basic research that increases our 
understanding of biological processes and lays the foundation 
for advances in disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
    Biomedical Research Workforce Training.--Training programs 
at the NIH provide a quality standard of training for graduate 
students and postdoctoral fellows in biomedical research. The 
training grants that support these programs at research 
institutions across the country play a vital role in 
establishing a biomedical research ecosystem and train the next 
generation of researchers for health-related research needs. 
Despite the success of training programs, the number of 
students and postdoctoral scholars supported on training grants 
has remained constant over the years. The Committee applauds 
NIH efforts to increase funding for institutional development 
awards (IDeA) States and urges the NIH to also emphasize the 
importance of supporting training grants in IDeA States. The 
Committee directs NIH to provide a portfolio analysis to the 
Committee within 120 days of enactment of this Act on the 
distribution of T32 training grants among States, including the 
number of applicants and success rates per State to ensure NIH 
is supporting capacity building and a diverse workforce for the 
future biomedical research enterprise. In addition, in the 
fiscal year 2028 congressional justification, the Committee 
requests that NIH provide an update on specific actions NIH 
will take to identify and remove barriers for applying for 
training grants in IDeA States.
    Bridge Programs.--The Committee strongly supports 
opportunities for students with limited access to STEMM 
(Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine) 
education and research. The Committee recognizes the 
effectiveness and importance of the NIGMS bridging programs 
that support historically underserved students and researchers 
to pursue STEMM studies and become the nation's next generation 
of researchers, including programs such as the Bridges to the 
Baccalaureate Research Training Program, Bridges to the 
Doctorate Research Training Program, Postbaccalaureate Research 
Education Program, Advancing Research Careers program, and 
Maximizing Opportunities for Scientific and Academic 
Independent Careers program. The Committee notes that NIH 
terminated many of these programs in 2026 and strongly urges 
NIH to reestablish them. The Committee urges NIH to continue 
the previous training programs that bridge different 
educational or career stages and maintain these programs at 
institutions that have historically received low levels of 
funding support from NIH. The Committee urges NIH to set clear 
mentorship and support standards for students participating in 
these programs. The Committee urges NIH to encourage and 
provide more guidance to participating institutions to account 
for sufficient staff and outreach, budget, and other training-
related expenses in grant applications. Finally, the Committee 
directs NIH to provide a briefing to the Committee on this 
effort within 90 days of enactment of this Act.

Institutional Development Awards

    The Committee provides $480,956,000 for IDeA, an increase 
of $30,000,000 from the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. The 
Committee directs that of the amounts provided for IDeA, 
$50,000,000 is provided for biomedical research facilities and 
equipment. The Committee understands that targeting additional 
resources for research facilities and associated equipment will 
enable institutions to make needed improvements and modernize 
their research facilities and equipment. Expanded investments 
in facilities will increase institutions' research capacity, 
help them attract talented investigators with promising 
research ideas, and strengthen their competitiveness among 
other research institutions around the country.
    The IDeA program increases our nation's biomedical research 
capability by improving research capacity in States that have 
historically had lower levels of NIH biomedical research 
funding. IDeA supports competitive basic, clinical, and 
translational research, faculty development, and infrastructure 
improvements. The IDeA program aims to strengthen States' and 
institutions' abilities to support biomedical research, enhance 
the competitiveness of investigators in securing research 
funding, and enable clinical and translational research that 
addresses the needs of medically underserved communities.

  EUNICE KENNEDY SHRIVER NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CHILD HEALTH AND HUMAN 
                          DEVELOPMENT (NICHD)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $1,769,078,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     1,650,676,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     1,769,078,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................      +118,402,000
 

    Mission.--NICHD's mission is to lead research and training 
to understand human development, improve reproductive health, 
enhance the lives of children and adolescents, and optimize 
abilities for all.
    Adenomyosis Research.--The Committee urges NICHD to 
continue expanding basic, clinical, and translational research 
into the mechanics of adenomyosis, including studies on the 
underlying causes, disease mechanisms, and progression of the 
condition. The Committee encourages investigation into the 
genetic, hormonal, and immunological factors that contribute to 
adenomyosis and the development of improved diagnostic tools, 
including imaging and biomarker-based approaches that enable 
earlier and more accurate diagnosis. The Committee further 
encourages research on innovative treatment strategies, 
including fertility-preserving medical and surgical 
interventions. In addition, the Committee urges NIH to 
prioritize research examining the relationship between 
adenomyosis, infertility--particularly unexplained 
infertility--endometriosis, and adverse reproductive outcomes. 
The Committee requests NIH include an update on research 
activities related to adenomyosis in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification.
    Endometriosis.--Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological 
condition affecting an estimated 10 percent of reproductive-age 
women and often causing significant pain, infertility, and 
reduced quality of life. Despite endometriosis' prevalence, it 
remains poorly understood, is frequently diagnosed years after 
symptom onset, and has limited treatment options beyond surgery 
and hormonal therapy. The Committee encourages NICHD to expand 
basic, clinical, and translational research into the mechanisms 
of endometriosis, diagnostic options, and treatment methods.
    Impact of Technology and Digital Media Use Among Infants, 
Children, and Teens.--The Committee continues to be concerned 
about the impacts of technology use and media consumption on 
infant, children, and adolescent development. The Committee 
appreciates NICHD's ongoing engagement on this important topic 
and urges continued support for research into the cognitive, 
physical, and mental health impacts of young people's use of 
technologies as well as long-term developmental effects on 
children's social, communication, and creative skills. The 
Committee also encourages NICHD to study the repercussions of 
increased use of digital media and technologies on suicidal 
thoughts and ideation among children. NICHD is encouraged to 
continue to consider different forms of digital media and 
technologies including mobile devices, smart phones, tablets, 
computers, and virtual reality tools, as well as social media 
content, video games, and television programming.
    Implementing a Maternal health and PRegnancy Outcomes 
Vision for Everyone (IMPROVE) Initiative.--The Committee 
continues to include $63,400,000 for the IMPROVE Initiative, 
the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. This funding 
supports research to reduce preventable causes of maternal 
deaths and improve the health of mothers before, during, and 
after pregnancy.
    Infertility.--The Committee remains concerned about the 
rate of infertility suffered by couples trying to conceive. 
Progress has been made in understanding the factors that 
contribute to infertility but more remains to be learned. The 
Committee encourages NICHD to continue to research female 
reproductive conditions, which could include research into 
treatments for endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome. The 
Committee also encourages continued research on male mechanisms 
of infertility.
    Learning Disabilities Research Centers and Learning 
Disabilities Innovation Hubs.--The Committee notes the role of 
NICHD's Learning Disabilities Research Centers and Learning 
Disabilities Innovation Hubs in supporting research into the 
causes, origins, and development of learning disabilities. 
These efforts support researchers in conducting randomized 
control trials to explore the relationships between different 
variables. Learning disabilities affect an individual's 
education and academic achievement, but these disorders are 
brain-based, making it essential that clinical research use the 
latest technology and advances in neuroscience.
    Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units Network.--The Maternal-Fetal 
Medicine Units Network is a network of 14 centers across the 
country that conduct clinical studies to improve maternal, 
fetal, and neonatal health that ultimately improves the 
clinical practice of obstetrics. The Committee commends the 
work of the maternal fetal medicine units and encourages 
continued support for this activity.
    National Reading Panel.--The 2000 National Reading Panel 
(NRP) report, the seminal text for the body of evidence 
referred to as ``The Science of Reading,'' was established 
through a fiscal year 1998 directive from this Committee. The 
Committee acknowledges the role the 2000 NRP report has played 
in establishing a scientific consensus around the components of 
effective reading instruction. After more than a quarter of a 
century, however, the Committee recognizes the need for 
additional scientific insights for a contemporary context. 
Specifically, the Committee is interested in the relationship 
between reading books rather than passages in building reading 
stamina; the relationship between writing instruction and 
reading comprehension; optimal amounts of time for different 
aspects of reading and writing instruction in the average 
classroom; the essential components of effective reading 
curricula; the relationship between teacher preparation, 
professional development, and effective reading and writing 
instruction; and out-of-school factors that impact reading 
proficiency, including oral language development.
    Accordingly, the Committee directs the director of the 
NICHD, in coordination with the Department of Education's 
Institute of Education Sciences (IES), to reestablish a 
National Reading Panel to assess the contemporary status of 
research-based knowledge, including the effectiveness of 
various approaches to teaching children to read. The Committee 
recommends that the panel be comprised of 15 impartial 
individuals, who are not officers or employees of the Federal 
Government and include leading scientists in reading research, 
representatives of colleges of education, reading teachers, 
educational administrators, and parents. Based on its findings, 
the panel should present a report to the Secretary of Health 
and Human Services, the Secretary of Education, the Committees 
on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the 
Senate, the Committee on Education and Workforce of the House 
of Representatives, and the Committee on Health, Education, 
Labor, and Pensions of the Senate. The report should present 
the panel's conclusions, an indication of the readiness for 
application in the classroom of the results of this research, 
and, if appropriate, a strategy for rapidly disseminating this 
information to facilitate effective reading instruction in the 
schools. If found warranted, the panel should also recommend a 
plan for additional research regarding early reading 
development and instruction.
    Pediatric Trials Network.--The Committee is aware of 
concerns that NIH reduced funding for the Pediatric Trials 
Network (PTN). Due to the PTN's role as a national focal point 
for pharmaceutical clinical trials involving pediatric 
populations, the Committee encourages NIH to support the PTN to 
ensure no clinical trials are disrupted. The Committee 
encourages NIH to maintain PTN's role in helping advance safe 
and effective therapeutics for children.
    Population Research.--The Committee has commended NICHD for 
supporting a robust population dynamics research portfolio that 
includes the Population Dynamics Centers Research 
Infrastructure Program and prospective, population 
representative longitudinal studies, including the Panel Study 
of Income Dynamics Child Development Supplement and Future of 
Families and Child Wellbeing Study. Data from these studies are 
used widely to inform research and training activities 
conducted by thousands of scientists at universities 
nationwide, including underserved institutions, and are heavily 
used by new and early-stage investigators, facilitating 
research to improve health and well-being across the lifespan. 
These investments support scientists' ability to uncover how 
adverse events early in an individual's life may influence the 
onset and course of chronic disease. As part of the fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification, the Committee requests NICHD 
provide an update on how it is sustaining this area of research 
and collaborations with other ICs such as NIA to advance 
science on the influence of life course risk factors and how 
they could be mitigated to promote better health outcomes in 
infants, adolescents, and young adults.
    Prenatal and Postnatal Vitamins.--The Committee encourages 
NIH to support evidence-based research that generates the 
criteria needed to define pregnancy-specific nutrient 
requirements to support evidence-based improvements in the 
formulation of prenatal and postnatal supplements to support 
maternal and fetal health.
    Priority Research for Pregnant and Lactating Women.--The 
Committee is concerned about the lack of pregnant and lactating 
women in clinical research. Women with chronic health 
conditions may lack access to appropriate treatments during 
pregnancy, putting them and their infants at risk. Despite 90 
percent of pregnant women taking prescription medication, only 
5 percent of medications have data on the impact of use during 
pregnancy. The Committee commends NICHD for initiating a 
prioritization process for existing medications and urges NICHD 
to continue conducting priority research projects on existing 
medications and therapeutics prescribed to pregnant and 
lactating women, and to prioritize research applications in the 
following areas: an unmet medical need or gap in treatment, and 
severity and prevalence of a specific disease or condition. The 
Committee requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification on this effort.
    Precision Interventions to Prevent Severe Maternal 
Morbidity.--The Committee encourages NICHD and NIDDK to 
consider funding for innovative trials that evaluate the 
effectiveness of precision interventions to mitigate systemic 
inflammation and prevent adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as 
preeclampsia, particularly in overweight and obese maternal 
populations.
    Uterine Fibroids.--The Committee urges NICHD to continue 
expanding basic, clinical, and translational research on the 
causes, pathophysiology, and progression of uterine fibroids. 
Possible areas of focus could include investigation of hormonal 
drivers, genetic and molecular mechanisms, environmental and 
endocrine-disrupting exposures, improved diagnostic tools, and 
innovative treatments, including minimally invasive and 
fertility-preserving surgical techniques as well as nonsurgical 
therapies. Additional areas of potential study include the 
effects of uterine fibroids on anemia, infertility, pregnancy 
complications, and other conditions. The Committee encourages 
NICHD to include an update on uterine fibroid research 
activities in the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification.

                      NATIONAL EYE INSTITUTE (NEI)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $896,549,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       833,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       896,549,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................       +63,549,000
 

    Mission.--The mission of the National Eye Institute is to 
eliminate vision loss and improve quality of life through 
vision research.
    Usher Syndrome.--The Committee strongly encourages NIH to 
enhance and prioritize Usher syndrome research at NEI. Usher 
syndrome is a rare genetic disease that causes deafness and 
blindness, and there is no viable treatment or cure. The 
Committee requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification, and such update should include 
efforts to stimulate the field and to accelerate viable human 
treatment options for those with Usher syndrome.

      NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCES (NIEHS)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $913,979,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       594,086,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       913,979,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................      +319,893,000
 

    Mission.--NIEHS's mission is to discover how the 
environment affects people in order to promote healthier lives.
    Wildfire Smoke Health Research.--The lack of data about the 
health impacts of wildland fire smoke and wildfire management 
strategies is a gap in our firefighting arsenal. The Committee 
encourages NIEHS to help fill this gap by pursuing research to 
evaluate smoke health impacts for communities experiencing 
different types of wildfire and to develop datasets linking 
wildfire smoke to health impacts.

                   NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON AGING (NIA)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $4,517,623,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     4,216,770,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     4,517,623,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................      +300,853,000
 

    Mission.--NIA's mission is to understand the nature of 
aging and the aging process, and diseases and conditions 
associated with growing older, to extend the healthy, active 
years of life.
    Alzheimer's Disease and Alzheimer's Disease-Related 
Dementias (AD/ADRD).--The Committee urges NIH to continue 
robust funding for AD/ADRD research at the NIA at no less than 
the level provided for fiscal year 2026. The Committee notes 
that Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias pose challenges 
to the nation's health, and AD/ADRD research at NIA is an 
investment in the treatment, prevention, and eventual cure of 
these diseases. NIA is encouraged to continue addressing the 
research targets outlined in the fiscal year 2028 professional 
judgment budget.
    Extracranial Lymphatic Dysfunction.--The Committee 
recognizes findings suggesting a possible role of extracranial 
lymphatic dysfunction in the progression of AD/ADRD. The 
Committee urges NIA to support research on this condition and 
restoration strategies as potential disease-modifying 
approaches, including non-pharmacologic, device-enabled, or 
procedural interventions. This research could focus on 
interventional or clinical trial-style studies and include 
investigation of underlying mechanisms, relevant biomarkers, 
and neurovascular or cognitive outcomes. The Committee requests 
the NIA include information on extracranial lymphatic 
dysfunction research activities in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification.
    Geographic Disparities in AD/ADRD.--The Committee is 
concerned about disparities in the prevalence of Alzheimer's 
Disease and Alzheimer's Disease-Related Dementias (AD/ADRD) 
observed in some regions of the country, including some 
counties that exhibit rates of AD/ADRD that are more than 
double the national rate. To better understand the underlying 
causes of these elevated incidence rates and to develop 
targeted treatments and solutions, the Committee encourages 
NIA, in coordination with relevant ICs, to support research on 
geographic populations with an elevated incidence of AD/ADRD. 
This research could include epidemiological studies; 
examinations of genetic, environmental, and other factors; and 
pilot intervention research designed to identify actionable 
pathways toward reducing disease incidence.
    Wearables and Circadian Rhythms in Aging Research.--The 
Committee recognizes the value of wearable devices for research 
on aging and age-related disease by enabling longitudinal 
measurement of sleep, physical activity, cardiovascular 
function, circadian rhythms, and other dynamic biological 
processes. The Committee encourages NIA to support research on 
the development, validation, and application of wearable and 
continuous biodata monitoring technologies, including the 
integration of such data with molecular, clinical, and 
functional endpoints. The Committee further encourages NIA to 
consider the role of circadian rhythm regulation in aging and 
age-related disease, and to explore how wearable-derived 
measures may contribute to the development of biomarkers 
relevant to healthspan and aging research. The Committee 
requests an update on these efforts in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification.

 NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ARTHRITIS AND MUSCULOSKELETAL AND SKIN DISEASES 
                                (NIAMS)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $685,465,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       637,819,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       685,465,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................       +47,646,000
 

    Mission.--NIAMS's mission is to support research into the 
causes, treatment, and prevention of arthritis and 
musculoskeletal and skin diseases; the training of basic and 
clinical scientists to carry out this research; and the 
dissemination of information on research progress in these 
diseases.
    Alopecia Areata.--The Committee notes that alopecia areata 
is a common, chronic autoimmune disease with devastating 
medical, psychological, and economic impacts. NIAMS research 
has uncovered genetic factors that are associated with alopecia 
areata, many of which have been implicated in other autoimmune 
diseases. The Committee encourages NIAMS to explore 
collaborative opportunities with key stakeholders to advance 
critical research projects into causes and treatments.
    Functional Radiation Medicine.--The Committee recognizes 
emerging research suggesting targeted, low-dose radiation, also 
called functional radiation medicine, may have applications 
beyond oncology. The Committee notes emerging clinical interest 
in using this therapy for non-malignant musculoskeletal, 
neurological, and fibrotic conditions, to reduce pain, 
inflammation, and functional impairment while potentially 
avoiding invasive interventions. There is more to learn 
regarding the mechanism of action, optimal dosing, long-term 
safety, comparative effectiveness, and appropriate patient 
selection. The Committee encourages NIH to support rigorous, 
peer-reviewed research into functional radiation medicine, 
including to evaluate basic, translational, and clinical 
studies, with attention to long-term outcomes, safety 
considerations, and comparisons with existing standards of 
care.
    Lupus.--The Committee commends NIAMS for leading key 
discoveries in lupus research. The Committee encourages the 
NIAMS to expand genetic, clinical, and basic research in lupus, 
including prioritizing cross collaboration with other ICs. The 
Committee further encourages NIAMS to continue to engage with 
patient advocacy stakeholders to better understand the needs of 
the lupus patient and research communities and to identify 
priorities such as the use of artificial intelligence in 
identifying biomarkers, developing better diagnostic tools, and 
engaging in precision medicine to improve lupus outcomes.
    Scleroderma.--The Committee recognizes the debilitating 
effects of scleroderma on its patient population and the need 
to advance treatment options for the community. The Committee 
encourages NIAMS to continue collaboration with stakeholders on 
reviewing the progress made in scleroderma research.

   NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON DEAFNESS AND OTHER COMMUNICATION DISORDERS 
                                (NIDCD)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $534,333,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       499,502,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       534,333,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................       +34,831,000
 

    Mission.--NIDCD conducts and supports biomedical and 
behavioral research and research training in the normal and 
disordered processes of hearing, balance, taste, smell, voice, 
speech, and language. NIDCD also conducts and supports research 
and research training related to disease prevention and health 
promotion; addresses special biomedical and behavioral problems 
associated with people who have communication impairments or 
disorders; and supports efforts to create devices which 
substitute for lost and impaired sensory and communication 
function.

             NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF NURSING RESEARCH (NINR)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $197,693,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       138,385,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       197,693,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................       +59,308,000
 

    Mission.--The mission of NINR is to lead nursing research 
to solve pressing health challenges and inform practice and 
policy for health optimization.
    Artificial Intelligence.--The Committee notes ongoing areas 
of NINR-supported research that leverages data science and 
artificial intelligence, as outlined in the fiscal year 2027 
congressional justification. The Committee encourages NINR to 
support additional research opportunities that utilize these 
technologies. One area of opportunity is the advancement of 
telemedicine and remote monitoring capabilities, to improve 
virtual care for managing chronic illnesses.

       NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON ALCOHOL ABUSE AND ALCOHOLISM (NIAAA)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $595,318,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................             - - -
Committee Recommendation..............................       595,318,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................      +595,318,000
 

    Mission.--NIAAA's mission is to generate and disseminate 
fundamental knowledge about the adverse effects of alcohol on 
health and well-being, and apply that knowledge to improve 
diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of alcohol-related 
problems, including alcohol use disorder, across the lifespan.

                NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON DRUG ABUSE (NIDA)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026...................        $1,662,695,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027..................                 - - -
Committee Recommendation..........................         1,662,695,000
    Change from enacted level.....................                 - - -
    Change from budget request....................        +1,662,695,000
 

    Mission.--NIDA's mission is to advance science on the 
causes and consequences of drug use and addiction and to apply 
that knowledge to improve individual and public health.
    GLP-1 Receptor Agonists.--The Committee encourages NIDA and 
NIAAA to consider opportunities to expand large-scale clinical 
research evaluating GLP-1 receptor agonists as potential 
treatments for addiction. Such research could include 
randomized controlled trials and real-world studies assessing 
adherence and adoption relative to existing treatments, as well 
as effects on human behavior, including craving, relapse, 
treatment retention, and overdose risk.
    Methamphetamines and Other Stimulants.--The Committee is 
concerned that, according to predicted provisional data 
released by CDC, more than 19,000 overdose deaths involved 
cocaine and more than 26,000 involved drugs in the category 
that includes methamphetamine in the 12-month period ending in 
November 2025. These elevated levels have led some to refer to 
stimulant overdoses as the ``fourth wave'' of the current drug 
addiction crisis in America following the rise of opioid-
related deaths involving prescription opioids, heroin, and 
fentanyl-related substances. No FDA approved medications are 
available for treating methamphetamine, cocaine, and other 
stimulant use disorders. The Committee continues to support 
NIDA's efforts to address the overdose opioid crisis, has 
provided continued funding for the Helping to End Addiction 
Long-term (HEAL) Initiative, and supports NIDA's efforts to 
combat the growing problem of methamphetamines and other 
stimulant use disorders and related deaths.
    Opioid Initiative.--The Committee continues to be concerned 
about the high mortality rate due to the opioid overdose 
epidemic and appreciates the important role that research plays 
in the various Federal initiatives aimed at this crisis. 
Approximately 190 people die each day in this country from drug 
overdose (more than 120 of those are directly from opioids), 
making it one of the most common causes of non-disease-related 
deaths for adolescents and young adults. Between 2023 and 2024, 
rates declined for overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids 
other than methadone, heroin, and natural and semi-synthetic 
opioids. More research is needed to find new and better agents 
to prevent or reverse the effects caused by this class of 
chemicals and to provide improved access to treatments for 
those with addiction to these drugs. To combat this crisis, the 
Committee continues to include within NIDA's budget 
$355,295,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, for the Institute's management of its share of the HEAL 
Initiative and in response to rising rates of stimulant use the 
continued overdose burden. The Committee encourages NIDA to 
support research on the development of safe and effective 
medications, new formulations and combinations, and devices to 
treat substance use disorders and prevent or reverse overdose, 
and to support research on comprehensive care models in 
communities nationwide to prevent opioid misuse, expand 
treatment capacity, enhance access to overdose reversal 
medications, and enhance prescriber practice; test 
interventions in justice system settings to expand the uptake 
of medication assisted treatment and methods to scale up these 
interventions; and develop evidence based strategies to 
integrate screening and treatment for opioid use disorders in 
emergency department and primary care settings. Recognizing the 
increasing severity of the National opioid crisis and the need 
to better our options for responding to, treating, and 
preventing overdoses, the Committee encourages NIDA to 
prioritize research to expedite treatments for and prevention 
of overdose from fentanyl and related analogs.
    Raising Awareness and Engaging the Medical Community in 
Drug Abuse and Addiction Prevention and Treatment.--Education 
is a critical component of any effort to curb drug use and 
addiction, and it must target every segment of society, 
including healthcare providers (doctors, nurses, dentists, 
pharmacists), patients, and families. Medical professionals 
must be in the forefront of efforts to curb the opioid crisis. 
The Committee continues to be pleased with the NIDAMED 
initiative, targeting physicians-in-training, including medical 
students and resident physicians in primary care specialties 
(e.g., internal medicine, family practice, emergency medicine, 
and pediatrics). The Committee encourages NIDA to continue 
efforts in this area, providing physicians and other medical 
professionals with the tools and skills needed to incorporate 
substance abuse screening and treatment into their clinical 
practices.
    Wastewater Drug Testing.--The Committee supports NIDA's 
research of testing wastewater to detect and understand trends 
in drug substances. Wastewater-based drug testing is a 
technique where wastewater samples from the sewer are tested 
for specific targets. It is intended to complement more 
traditional methods of monitoring drug use patterns, with the 
potential to detect such patterns near real time and in hard-
to-reach populations. The Committee recognizes that such 
testing can be proactive and may allow agencies and related 
stakeholders to respond appropriately when spikes or new trends 
are identified in certain areas or of certain drugs. The 
Committee encourages NIDA to report data collection and 
analysis of trends and drugs from this research so that the 
field can improve and validate wastewater testing methods and 
enable local governments to target support and reduce overdose 
deaths.

               NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF MENTAL HEALTH (NIMH)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026...................        $2,189,843,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027..................         2,040,397,000
Committee Recommendation..........................         2,189,843,000
    Change from enacted level.....................                 - - -
    Change from budget request....................          +149,446,000
 

    Mission.--NIMH's mission is to transform the understanding 
and treatment of mental illnesses through basic and clinical 
research, paving the way for prevention, recovery, and cures.
    Autism Spectrum Disorder.--The Committee encourages NIH to 
support greater investment in research on autism. NIH also is 
encouraged to prioritize and expand research addressing core 
statutory areas of need, specifically the development and 
evaluation of interventions and services, lifespan outcomes, 
the biology and prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), 
early identification and diagnosis, and disparities affecting 
underserved populations. The Committee further encourages 
implementation of the NIH-related provisions in the Autism 
Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education, and Support 
Act of 2024, including releasing an annual budget estimate for 
autism research, ensuring research efforts reflect the entire 
population of individuals with ASD, and creating a new process 
for the public to obtain information on all existing and 
planned autism research activities and provide comments.
    Mental Health Research.--The Committee supports NIMH's 
high-quality basic research on serious mental illnesses and 
requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification on the funding allocations at NIMH detailing the 
percentage of funds spent on basic, translational, and clinical 
research.
    Music Therapy for Autism Research.--The Committee is aware 
of developing research in the use of music as an educational, 
communications, and mental and behavioral health tool for 
individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The Committee 
encourages NIH to support additional research into the benefits 
of music therapy to improve social interaction, communication, 
neurological development, emotional regulation, focus, and 
sensory-motor skills for individuals with ASD. Such efforts 
could enhance efforts to examine outcomes and expand access to 
intervention programs to increase quality of life for people 
with ASD.
    Psychotic Disorders.--The Committee recognizes the 
substantial burden of psychotic disorders, including 
Parkinson's disease psychosis and schizophrenia, and the 
limitations of existing antipsychotics, which are associated 
with metabolic toxicity, extrapyramidal symptoms, and high 
rates of treatment discontinuation. The Committee is aware of 
advances in ultra-selective D2 receptor pharmacology developed 
through the NIH intramural research program that may preserve 
antipsychotic efficacy while minimizing off-target side 
effects. Therefore, the Committee urges NIMH to prioritize 
funding for research into the continued development of 
pharmacologically selective antipsychotic therapeutics, 
including support for IND-enabling studies and early-phase 
clinical trials for Parkinson's disease psychosis and 
schizophrenia.
    Suicide Prevention.--Suicide is complex, and multiple 
factors--biological, psychological, social, and environmental--
play a role. The Committee encourages NIMH to provide 
additional attention to suicide prevention research across 
these areas, as well as the application of novel measurement 
techniques, statistical analysis, digital initiatives, and 
information systems. The Committee encourages NIMH to promote 
greater collaboration with other institutes and centers with 
expertise in research areas that can contribute to suicide 
prevention.
    Youth Mental Health.--The Committee remains concerned by 
CDC data indicating elevated levels of depression among 
adolescents and acknowledges the NIMH strategic framework for 
addressing mental health among underserved and underrepresented 
youth, including those in rural communities, by 2031. The 
Committee recognizes ongoing work with NICHD and NIMHD to 
execute this framework through research and other efforts. New 
investments in research to guide recovery are key to resolving 
the increase in youth mental health issues. The Committee 
encourages NIMH to include an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification on progress made in implementing 
this strategic framework, including interagency collaborations, 
research advancements, and stakeholder engagement.

            NATIONAL HUMAN GENOME RESEARCH INSTITUTE (NHGRI)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026...................          $663,200,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027..................           619,514,000
Committee Recommendation..........................           663,200,000
    Change from enacted level.....................                 - - -
    Change from budget request....................           +43,686,000
 

    Mission.--NHGRI's mission is to accelerate scientific and 
medical breakthroughs that improve human health by driving 
cutting-edge research, developing new technologies, and 
studying the impact of genomics on society.
    Proteomics.--The Committee recognizes the promise of 
proteomic research in the study of human biological systems. 
The ability to effectively and efficiently analyze protein 
patterns and their changes over time could provide valuable 
insights into an individual's real-time state of health. The 
Committee encourages NHGRI to continue proteomic research, in 
conjunction with other ``-omic'' and multiomic research to 
advance U.S. leadership in this cutting-edge field.

             NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF BIOMEDICAL IMAGING AND 
                         BIOENGINEERING (NIBIB)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $440,627,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       408,391,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       440,627,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................       +32,236,000
 

    Mission.--The NIBIB mission is to improve health by leading 
the development and accelerating the application of biomedical 
technologies.
    Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics.--The Committee notes the 
contributions of the Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics Tech 
program to support infrastructure and sustain technological 
capabilities that allow innovative technologies to continuously 
flow to market. The Committee encourages continued support in 
this area as it relates to technologies to improve maternal 
health outcomes, particularly for individuals in areas with 
limited access to maternity care.

           NATIONAL CENTER FOR COMPLEMENTARY AND INTEGRATIVE 
                             HEALTH (NCCIH)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $170,384,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................             - - -
Committee Recommendation..............................       170,384,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................      +170,384,000
 

    Mission.--The mission of NCCIH is to define, through 
rigorous scientific investigation, the fundamental science, 
usefulness, and safety of complementary and integrative health 
approaches and their roles in improving health and health care.

           NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON MINORITY HEALTH AND HEALTH 
                          DISPARITIES (NIMHD)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $538,395,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................             - - -
Committee Recommendation..............................       546,895,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        +8,500,000
    Change from budget request........................      +546,895,000
 

    Mission.--NIMHD's mission is to lead scientific research to 
improve minority health and reduce health disparities.
    Chronic Disease.--The Committee is aware of NIMHD's prior 
support for research into the prevention, treatment, and 
management of chronic diseases, including obesity, diabetes, 
and hypertension, through regional chronic disease centers. The 
Committee supports continued research into chronic disease, 
consistent with the administration's priorities to support 
scientific research that translates to measurable improvements 
in Americans' health outcomes. Such efforts could continue to 
utilize the regional chronic disease centers through a 
competitive renewal of the program.
    Improving Native American Cancer Outcomes.--The Committee 
remains deeply concerned that Native Americans experience 
overall cancer incidence and mortality rates significantly 
higher than those of non-Native populations. The Committee 
includes $15,000,000, an increase of $6,000,000 from the fiscal 
year 2026 enacted level, to continue and expand support for 
existing grantees under the Initiative for Improving Native 
American Cancer Outcomes. This initiative supports research, 
education, outreach, and clinical access related to cancer in 
Native American communities. The Committee further directs 
NIMHD to continue to work with NCI to maintain support for 
current grantees.
    Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Health Research Office.--
The Committee provides $7,500,000, which is an increase of 
$2,500,000 above the fiscal year 2026 enacted level, for the 
Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Health Research Office 
(NHPIHRO) with a focus on both addressing Native Hawaiian and 
Pacific Islander (NHPI) health disparities, as well as 
supporting the pathway and research of NHPI investigators. The 
Committee encourages NHPIHRO to develop partnerships with 
academic institutions with a proven track record of working 
closely with NHPI communities and NHPI-serving organizations 
located in States with significant NHPI populations to support 
the development of future researchers from these same 
communities.
    Research Endowment Program.--The Committee includes 
$12,000,000 for the Research Endowment Program, which is the 
same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. The Committee is 
pleased with NIMHD's reinvigoration of this program and 
supports efforts to expand this program and assist eligible 
institutions receiving grants through a competitive process, to 
ensure effective participation.
    Research Centers at Minority Institutions (RCMI) Program.--
The Committee notes that NIMHD's investment in the RCMI program 
provides opportunities for institutions with historical 
missions and precedence of serving minorities and building 
infrastructure to conduct minority health and health 
disparities research. The Committee encourages NIMHD to 
continue support of the RCMI program.

               JOHN E. FOGARTY INTERNATIONAL CENTER (FIC)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $95,162,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................             - - -
Committee Recommendation..............................        95,162,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................       +95,162,000
 

    Mission.--FIC's mission is to support and facilitate global 
health research conducted by U.S. and international 
investigators, building partnerships between health research 
institutions in the U.S. and abroad, and training the next 
generation of scientists to address global health needs.
    Coordination, Capacity, and Research.--The Committee notes 
the Fogarty International Center's prior activities on 
strengthening health research systems, training researchers 
according to U.S. standards, and pandemic preparedness in low- 
and middle-income countries. The Committee notes opportunities 
for the FIC to continue international coordination, increase 
capacity for computational modeling and outbreak analytics, and 
support research to improve health outcomes in low-resource 
settings, in accordance with the standards and principals for 
international research partnerships that NIH announced in 
August 2025.

                   NATIONAL LIBRARY OF MEDICINE (NLM)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $497,548,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       464,636,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       497,548,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................       +32,912,000
 

    Mission.--As a leader in computational health and the 
world's largest medical library, NLM collects, organizes, 
preserves, and disseminates data and information important to 
biomedicine and health; serves as a national information 
resource for medical education, research, and health service 
activities; enhances access to biomedical literature through 
electronic services; serves the public by providing electronic 
access to reliable health information for consumers; supports 
and directs the Network of the NLM; provides grants for 
research in biomedical communications, medical library 
development, and training health information specialists; 
conducts and supports research and research training in 
biomedical informatics, computational health, computational 
biology, and data science; supports development, maintenance, 
and dissemination of health data standards that promote 
interoperability among clinical and research information 
systems; and manages and maintains information resources for 
genomics, molecular biology, clinical trials, medical images, 
environmental health, public health, and health services 
research.

      NATIONAL CENTER FOR ADVANCING TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCES (NCATS)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $942,323,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       873,320,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       954,323,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +12,000,000
    Change from budget request........................       +81,003,000
 

    Mission.--NCATS was established to transform the 
translational process so that new treatments and cures for 
disease can be delivered to patients faster.
    Angelman Syndrome.--As gene therapy and gene targeted 
approaches continue to develop with significant potential for 
changing outcomes for patients with Angelman syndrome and other 
rare conditions, the Committee acknowledges the critical 
leadership of NCATS, particularly through the Somatic Cell 
Genome Editing (SCGE) program. The SCGE initiative has made 
meaningful progress in advancing gene-editing technologies and 
has demonstrated how development strategies for one disease 
area can create a platform for other indications. The Committee 
understands that scientific endeavors don't always follow a 
pre-ordained pathway, and that manufacturing and other 
challenges can arise that result in changes in project plans 
and timelines. Given promising initial results in animal 
models, the Committee urges NCATS to continue this initiative 
and to expand this type of work to benefit all gene-targeted 
modalities and to continue to apply learnings across 
conditions.
    Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSA).--The 
Committee understands the role of the CTSA program in 
supporting a national network of medical institutions to 
advance the translation of research into improved clinical care 
in communities. The Committee includes $629,560,000 for CTSA 
activities, the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    Cures Acceleration Network.--The Cures Acceleration Network 
is authorized to conduct and support advances in basic 
research, accelerate the development of high need cures, and 
reduce barriers between discoveries in the laboratory and 
clinical trials for new therapies. The Committee continues to 
include $75,000,000 for this activity.
    National Clinical Cohort Collaborative.--The Committee 
supports the National Clinical Cohort Collaborative (N3C)'s 
open-science, privacy-preserved data-sharing platform to 
accelerate biomedical research and discovery. N3C combines 
electronic health record data with other types of data such as 
imaging, mortality, and Medicare and Medicaid data from CMS to 
answer key research questions on a variety of diseases. The 
Committee supports the continuation of N3C.
    Rare Disease Research.--The Committee notes NIH's important 
role in conducting rare disease research, given that millions 
of Americans are living with a rare disease. The Committee 
encourages NCATS to continue leveraging its investments in rare 
disease research, to accelerate the development of new 
treatments for the over 95 percent of 10,000+ rare diseases 
with no FDA approved treatment. Such investments have led to 
investigational new drugs and approved therapies. The Committee 
urges NCATS to increase its support for rare disease research 
and has included an increase of $12,000,000 from the fiscal 
year 2026 enacted level for rare disease research.

                         OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $2,475,514,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     2,295,514,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     2,500,514,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +25,000,000
    Change from budget request........................      +205,000,000
 

    Mission.--The OD is responsible for the research, mission, 
policies, and administration of the agency. The OD leads and 
supports NIH-wide initiatives in partnership with NIH 
Institutes and Centers and their constituents. OD guides the 
development and management of intramural and extramural 
research and research training policy, the review of program 
quality and effectiveness, the coordination of selected NIH-
wide program activities, and the administration of centralized 
support activities essential to the operations of NIH.
    The items below include issues and programs specific to the 
Office of the Director as well as those that involve multiple 
institutes and centers.
    Advancing Human Health.--Executive Order 14212, 
``Establishing the President's Making America Healthy Again 
Commission,'' acknowledges lagging American life expectancy 
compared to other developed countries and the prevalence of 
chronic disease in the U.S., including among children. This 
executive order charges NIH and other federally funded health 
research to prioritize gold-standard research into the causes 
of diseases and sickness affecting Americans. The Committee 
supports NIH's efforts to carry out the requirements of EO 
14212 through research supported by the different Institutes 
and Centers.
    All of Us.--As NIH evaluates plans for the activities 
supported by this program, the Committee encourages the agency 
to consider the merits of integrating such activities into an 
existing institute or center such as NCATS or NHGRI.
    Alternatives to Animal Testing.--The Committee notes NIH's 
recent actions related to increasing the use of new approach 
methodologies (NAMs) and reducing the use of animals in 
research. The Committee remains aware of concerns about the 
process whereby peer review panels assess whether grant 
applications sufficiently considered non-animal research 
alternatives as part of their justification for animal use. The 
Committee requests that NIH include an update in the fiscal 
year 2028 congressional justification on actions it is taking 
to strengthen enforcement of alternatives requirements and any 
integration of incentives for the development and use of 
scientifically robust non-animal methods, as well as actions to 
include peer reviewers with expertise in non-animal methods. 
Additionally, in support of the competitive evaluation of 
applications that propose the use of NAMs, the Committee 
encourages NIH to assess the feasibility of ensuring peer 
reviewers have access to appropriate resources, which could 
include reference librarians with expertise in evaluating the 
adequacy of search efforts for non-animal methods.
    Artificial Intelligence.--The Committee recognizes NIH's 
ongoing efforts to leverage artificial intelligence to 
accelerate biomedical research and the value of coordinating 
these efforts across the agency to maximize impact and reduce 
duplication. NIH is developing an NIH-wide AI strategy, and the 
Committee notes that NIH requested public comments last summer 
to inform the forthcoming strategic plan and its early one-year 
action plan. In that request for information, NIH stated 
interest in a unified, Office of the Director-level AI 
structure to increase transparency, facilitate work across ICs 
and programs, and ensure AI research discoveries translate to 
improve health. The Committee requests a report within 180 days 
of enactment of this Act on NIH's AI strategy efforts and 
priority initiatives it plans for integrating AI into NIH 
research or operations and to make such report available on the 
agency's website. The Committee also urges NIH to consider the 
benefits of how responsibly shared AI research tools or 
platforms could accelerate biomedical research.
    Artificial Intelligence Infrastructure in Biomedical 
Research.--Executive Order 14363, ``Launching the Genesis 
Mission,'' issued on November 24, 2025, directs a coordinated 
national effort to accelerate the use of AI to lead to more 
scientific discovery that can solve pressing problems. The 
Committee recognizes the promise of the Genesis Mission's 
American Science and Security Platform in accelerating science 
and innovation and therefore encourages NIH support of the 
goals and efforts outlined in the executive order, as 
appropriate. Additionally, the Committee is aware NIH is 
developing an AI Strategic Plan, as outlined in the Director's 
unified strategy announced on August 15, 2025. The Committee 
supports ongoing NIH efforts to enhance its AI and data science 
capabilities and notes potential opportunities for building on 
its infrastructure to link AI ready datasets, AI models, and 
computing. As part of the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification, the Committee requests that NIH include 
information on ongoing or planned activities to enhance its AI 
and data science capabilities, including information on 
associated infrastructure such as computing, storage, 
workforce, and software.
    Artificial Intelligence Innovation.--The Committee notes 
the Bipartisan Artificial Intelligence Task Force's December 
2024 report that outlines principles and recommendations for 
ensuring U.S. leadership in responsible artificial intelligence 
(AI) innovation. The report underscored the role of basic 
scientific research, including investments through the NIH, in 
contributing scientific data that can be leveraged with AI to 
find new discoveries. The Committee supports NIH's scientific 
research that fosters American leadership in AI innovation, 
including pursuing medical breakthroughs and groundbreaking 
drug discoveries to improve Americans' health outcomes.
    Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Biomarker 
Precision Medicine.--The Committee notes the opportunity for 
NIH to expand research leveraging artificial intelligence and 
machine learning (AI/ML) to address infection-associated 
chronic conditions. Such opportunities include clinical trials 
for novel AI/ML-based mechanistic biomarkers and their 
corresponding precision medicine treatments.
    Cell and Gene Based Therapies.--The Committee recognizes 
that cell- and gene-based therapies hold potential for a broad 
range of conditions, including neurological conditions, 
musculoskeletal conditions, cancer, radiation damage, 
cardiovascular disease, diabetes, wound healing, and autoimmune 
and immune-mediated disease. The Committee encourages NIH to 
continue supporting research, development, and manufacturing of 
somatic (adult) gene and cell-based therapies for patients with 
serious and life-threatening conditions. Such efforts could 
support large-scale, randomized, controlled clinical trials 
exploring the use of somatic gene and cell-based therapies for 
serious and life-threatening conditions; support for 
characterization, optimization, and scaling of manufacturing of 
gene- and cell-based therapies; the sharing of research 
findings and best practices; and collaborative, evidence 
development which could include an outcomes database.
    Childhood Post Infectious Neuroimmune Disorders, Pediatric 
Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome and Pediatric Autoimmune 
Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcus.--The 
Committee supports efforts to advance scientific research 
related to the devastating diseases of Pediatric Acute-Onset 
Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) & Pediatric Autoimmune 
Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcus 
(PANDAS). Although the NIH has undertaken research in this 
area, significantly more needs to be done. Understanding the 
causes, diagnosis, and treatment of these life-threatening 
diseases is essential to expedite early identification and 
intervention, thereby reducing the risk of chronic illness and 
associated costs to families, school systems, health care 
systems, and insurers. PANS/PANDAS research also would further 
the understanding of the critical link between neuropsychiatric 
illness and infections. The Committee urges NIH to continue to 
prioritize research on PANS/PANDAS and related to autoimmune 
encephalitic conditions and requests an update on such 
research, in the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification.
    Clinical Trials with International Partners.--The Committee 
supports NIH efforts to ensure necessary transparency regarding 
international research partners. These follow Federal oversight 
agency reports in this area, including a June 14, 2023, report, 
``Federal Research: NIH Could Take Additional Actions to Manage 
Risks Involving Foreign Subrecipients,'' in which GAO 
identified weaknesses and recommended process changes to 
improve NIH oversight of such awards. The Committee is aware of 
concerns about the disruption of low-risk clinical trials and 
human subject research during implementation of NIH's new 
application and award structure for awards involving 
international entities. Therefore, while maintaining existing 
prohibitions on high-risk pathogen research, the Committee 
encourages NIH to work with trusted research partners abroad to 
continue support for key areas of research.
    Collaborations with the Department of Energy.--The 
Committee supports collaborations between the NIH and the 
Department of Energy (DOE) to strategically leverage NIH's 
research needs in cancer research, brain mapping, myelin sheath 
mapping, drug development that requires DOE's high frequency 
imaging, supercomputing, instrumentation, materials, modeling 
simulation, and data science. Increased coordination could be 
instrumental to assist in the development of the nation's 
health, security, biomedical technologies, and in the 
development of more strategic enabling technologies. The 
Committee requests an update from NIH regarding their current 
and projected collaborations with DOE, including the 
identification of future opportunities for continued 
partnership growth as part of the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification.
    Common Fund Rare Disease Research.--The Committee notes 
prior NIH investments through the Common Fund have sought to 
increase the scientific understanding of rare diseases, so that 
new findings could be translated into improved diagnosis, 
development of novel treatments, and potentially the discovery 
of cures for such conditions. The Committee also notes that 
findings from other Common Fund initiatives can inform rare 
disease research, in addition to research on more common 
diseases and conditions. The Committee encourages NIH to 
continue to seek opportunities through the Common Fund that can 
help advance the field of rare disease research and lead to 
scientific breakthroughs.
    Competitive Award Delays.--The Committee notes delays in 
available competitive NIH grants. As of June in fiscal year 
2026, the amount of available competitive NIH awards is down 48 
percent, and the value of all competitive awards is down 40 
percent in fiscal year 2026 as compared to fiscal year 2024. 
These delays in disbursement of appropriated funds present 
serious challenges to institutions of higher education who 
depend on reliable timelines and clear communication from the 
Department to allocate necessary resources and staff towards 
grant applications. Additionally, the Committee is concerned 
about broad-based efforts to limit access to grant funds for 
some higher education institutions. The Committee urges NIH to 
focus on the rigor and quality of the research and scientific 
findings, while preserving access to funds for meritorious 
grant applications.
    Research Facilities Innovation Fund.--The Committee 
recommendation includes $200,000,000 from within amounts 
provided for the Office of the Director to support grants for 
research facilities, to increase institutions' research 
capacity. The Committee understands that modern, well-equipped 
facilities are necessary for institutions to remain competitive 
now and over the long term. Institutions with long-standing, 
robust research portfolios have established or are better able 
to invest in top-tier research facilities, equipment, and 
related infrastructure. In turn, modern research facilities 
mean institutions are better able to attract top research 
talent, thereby remaining highly competitive among peer 
institutions conducting federally funded research. The 
Committee also recognizes that talented investigators with 
meritorious research ideas--including new and early-stage 
investigators--are at institutions around the country, 
including those that have historically received lower levels of 
NIH research funding or that have less established facilities. 
Innovative approaches to supporting the development and 
improvement of research facilities around the country have 
great potential to increase the number of institutions capable 
of conducting biomedical research. Such support can expand 
institutional capacity for carrying out NIH-supported research 
that leads to a deeper understanding of human health and 
diseases, development of new or improved treatments, and cures 
to save lives. As such, the Committee directs NIH to consider 
geographic variance and the potential for facilities support to 
increase the research capacity of institutions, as it 
implements this program. The Committee directs NIH to provide a 
briefing on its planned implementation of this activity, 
including timelines, priorities, and staffing, within 90 days 
of enactment of this Act.
    Data Standardization and Governance for AI.--The Committee 
understands the potential of publicly available research tools, 
such as a platform, that could link federated, AI-ready 
biomedical datasets and AI foundation models trained on such 
data, to advance biomedical research. The Committee further 
understands that such a platform would require a federated, 
privacy-preserving, and AI-ready data ecosystem capable of 
integrating large-scale biomedical datasets. As part of NIH's 
ongoing strategic efforts related to AI and data science, the 
Committee encourages NIH to consider the merits and feasibility 
of such a research platform. NIH is also encouraged to consider 
the data and governance standards required to enable the 
integration of datasets into such a data ecosystem that 
supports interoperability across data domains, AI training of 
datasets, and ensures compliance with applicable laws, as well 
as the governance frameworks necessary for responsible use 
across any participating institutions.
    Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Chronic 
Conditions.--The Committee remains concerned with the overall 
economic and population health effects of chronic conditions, 
including infection-associated conditions such as Lyme disease 
and Long COVID. The Committee encourages NIH to consider 
expanding opportunities to leverage AI and machine learning and 
corresponding precision medicine treatments for chronic 
conditions, including clinical trials for novel AI/ML-based 
mechanistic biomarkers.
    Dog and Cat Research.--The Committee is aware of concerns 
regarding the use of dogs and cats in NIH-funded biomedical 
research. The Committee commends NIH's recent efforts to reduce 
the use of animals, including dogs and cats, in biomedical 
research, by supporting increased use of new, promising human-
based models, which are also referred to as new alternative 
methods (NAMs). The Committee notes the potential for NAMs to 
provide researchers with better predictions of human 
physiological responses in their studies. Similarly, the 
Committee understands the FDA's historical use of dog models 
for preclinical studies, but that the agency has launched its 
``Roadmap to Reducing Animal Testing in Preclinical Safety 
Studies,'' which aims to incorporate NAMs into its regulatory 
review process. The Committee recognizes that some NIH-
supported research studies involve animals as companions, or 
pets. Additionally, there are areas of research in which NAMs 
are not yet able to replace animal models. In support of NIH's 
efforts in this area, the Committee includes new bill language 
prohibiting funding for NIH-supported biomedical research, 
testing, or experimentation on dogs and cats that is classified 
in pain category D or E, with exceptions for such activities 
that involve dogs as companion animals, have no other viable 
alternative, or permit post-research adoption or rehoming of 
the dogs or cats.
    Duchenne and Becker Muscular Dystrophy.--NIH-supported 
basic and translational research in Duchenne and Becker 
Muscular Dystrophy has enabled advances in these conditions. 
There are multiple therapies approved to treat Duchenne, but 
research data does not show that these key treatments halt or 
reverse this devastating condition, and treatment varies 
depending on a patient's genotype, age, and stage of disease. 
Additional research is warranted. The Committee appreciates 
NIH's focus on rare disease research that benefits Duchenne 
patients as well as the Muscular Dystrophy Coordinating 
Committee's update of its Action Plan. The Committee notes the 
potential for platform technologies for targeted therapies to 
be replicated across multiple rare conditions. NIH is 
encouraged to consider research opportunities related to next 
generation backbone chemistry for platform technologies, with a 
particular focus on more challenging and rare genotypes not 
addressed in gene targeted therapy development. The Committee 
also encourages NIH to develop a multi-institute strategy to 
accelerate discovery of platform approaches to DNA and RNA-
directed therapies.
    Emerging Research Institutions.--The Committee notes NIH's 
Unified Funding Strategy includes support for funding policies 
that include the broad distribution and geographic balance of 
funding. The Committee encourages NIH to consider approaches to 
support research and the strengthening of biomedical research 
capacity at emerging research institutions, which are those 
lower Federal research expenditures, as well as at other 
institutions and areas of the country that have historically 
received lower levels of NIH research funding.
    Facilities and Administrative Costs.--The Committee is 
aware of the longstanding cost-sharing model for facilities and 
administrative (F&A) costs, or indirect costs, between the 
Federal government and research institutions, and that this 
cost-sharing has an important role in supporting NIH-funded 
research. The Committee is aware of concerns about high 
negotiated F&A rates, and that more Federal funding would be 
available to support biomedical research if these rates were 
lower. The Committee is also aware of interest in making the 
current model more transparent and efficient, and better 
tailoring costs to different types of research, among other 
possible changes. Additionally, the Committee understands that 
research institutions' effective--or actual--reimbursement 
rates may be quite lower than their negotiated rates. 
Researchers analyzed this difference for about 350 research 
institutions that account for roughly 90 percent of NIH's 
extramural funding, in ``Indirect Cost Recovery in U.S. 
Innovation Policy: History, Evidence, and Avenues for Reform,'' 
a National Bureau of Economic Research working paper issued in 
March 2025. They found that most institutions' negotiated rates 
were between 50 and 70 percent, averaging 58 percent, while 
their effective rates tended to be between 25 and 45 percent 
and averaged 42 percent. The researchers found that while 
negotiated rates have increased during the past several 
decades, effective rates have remained relatively constant. The 
Committee recognizes recent efforts by interested stakeholders 
to develop recommendations for a new F&A model, aimed at 
addressing concerns with the current model. These efforts are a 
valuable contribution to the ongoing dialogue about the future 
of the F&A rates framework.
    Food is Medicine.--The Committee understands the potential 
for food is medicine interventions such as medically tailored 
meals, medically tailored groceries, and produce prescriptions, 
to improve health outcomes and treat diet-related chronic 
diseases that contribute to health care costs and negative 
health outcomes. The Committee encourages NIH to include an 
update in the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification on 
activities related to food is medicine research, including any 
collaborations with the scientific community or consideration 
of Food is Medicine Centers of Excellence.
    Fragile X.--The Committee notes the importance of expanding 
the base of researchers and clinicians who are familiar with 
and trained in Fragile X-associated conditions and disorders 
and promoting collaboration between basic scientists and 
clinicians to enable researchers to better understand 
phenotypes, document variations in how the disorder presents 
itself, identify potential biomarkers and outcome measures, and 
develop new interventions. The Committee commends the NIH for 
recognizing the ethical, legal, and social issues in 
premutation screening and testing and encourages the NIH to 
look at existing pilot studies that are looking at innovative 
ways to screen newborns, study Fragile X across the lifespan, 
and coordinate such efforts and research with the CDC as they 
look at screening solutions for FMR1-related conditions.
    Gabriella Miller Kids First Pediatric Research Program.--
The Committee includes $12,600,000 to support pediatric 
research as authorized by the Gabriella Miller Kids First 
Research program, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level.
    Genomic Data.--The Committee is aware of legislative 
efforts to establish a pilot program to collect new genomic 
data from samples found on certain public lands to contribute 
to scientific innovation.
    Grant Funding and Administrative Burden.--The Committee is 
aware of the significant administrative requirements required 
of research as part of NIH's grant application process and the 
peer-review grant funding model. The Committee encourages NIH, 
within existing authorities, to consider opportunities to 
reduce the administrative burden, while ensuring compliance and 
stewardship of NIH-funded activities, which could enable 
scientists to focus more time on their research. The Committee 
requests NIH include an update on progress related to such 
activities as part of the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification.
    Health Translational Outcomes.--The Committee is supportive 
of NIH's efforts to ensure that federally funded biomedical 
research translates into measurable improvements in patient 
outcomes, life expectancy, and population health. Additionally, 
the Committee supports NIH's efforts to strengthen the 
biomedical workforce pipeline and expand access to NIH 
resources such as clinical trial networks, data and computing 
resources, research facilities, translational science programs, 
and biorepositories. Additionally, the Committee supports 
ongoing efforts at research institutions to combine their NIH 
research portfolios, training programs for health 
professionals, and partnerships with adult and pediatric 
healthcare systems, to accelerate translational science and 
clinical results.
    Immune Thrombocytopenia.--The Committee commends NIH for 
its efforts to advance research into rare blood disorders and 
encourages NIH to explore opportunities to support research on 
immune thrombocytopenia, including through the NIH Rare Disease 
Clinical Research Network in coordination with other NIH 
Institutes and Centers, with potential public health work 
opportunities through the CDC. The Committee encourages NIH to 
provide an update on activities and potential opportunities 
related to immune thrombocytopenia research in the fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification.
    Interagency Coordinating Committee on the Validation of 
Alternative Methods (ICCVAM).--The Committee notes NIH's recent 
efforts to foster increased use of non-animal, alternative 
methods in NIH-funded research, especially where such models 
are more predictive of responses and outcomes in human health. 
Therefore, the Committee notes the potential benefits of common 
terminology among ICCVAM member agencies and encourages NIH to 
facilitate efforts to standardize the ICCVAM member agencies' 
public-facing definitions and terminology with the ICCVAM 
glossary. The Committee further encourages ICCVAM to maintain a 
consolidated, annually updated glossary. In the event a member 
agency cannot adopt a definition for statutory, regulatory, or 
other agency-specific reasons, such agency could provide ICCVAM 
with a publicly available written definition and explanation as 
to why it differs.
    INCLUDE Down Syndrome Research Initiative.--The Committee 
includes no less than $120,000,000, a $20,000,000 increase 
above the fiscal year 2026 enacted level, within OD for the 
INvestigation of Co-occurring conditions across the Lifespan to 
Understand Down syndrome (INCLUDE) Initiative. With the 
Committee's support, NIH launched the INCLUDE Initiative in 
June 2018. The Committee remains pleased with a focus on large 
cohort studies across the lifespan, novel clinical trials, and 
multi-year, trans-NIH research driving important advances in 
understanding immune system dysregulation, Alzheimer's disease, 
and leukemia that is contributing to improvements in the health 
outcomes and quality of life of individuals with Down syndrome 
as well as millions of typical individuals. The Committee 
directs NIH to provide an updated plan within 90 days of 
enactment of this Act that includes a timeline and description 
of potential grant opportunities and deadlines for all expected 
funding opportunities so that young investigators and new 
research institutions may be further encouraged to explore 
research in this space. This plan should also incorporate and 
increase pipeline research initiatives specific to Down 
syndrome and be made available on the agency's website.
    Infection Associated Chronic Conditions and Illnesses 
(IACCIs).-- These are a related family of diseases with many 
overlapping similarities and commonalities. The Committee 
encourages NIH to establish a panel to review progress on 
activities to address IACCIs. The Committee requests an update 
on such progress related to addressing IACCIs as part of the 
fiscal year 2028 congressional justification. Additionally, the 
Committee notes ongoing clinical trials across 50 sites to 
understand the causes, mechanisms, and potential treatment 
options for post-infectious conditions.
    Menopause Research.--The Committee is aware of research 
gaps related to basic research into and knowledge and 
understanding of menopause and perimenopause and treatments. 
Addressing this gap could improve health outcomes and the 
quality of life for the nation's middle aged and older women. 
The Committee encourages NIH to research more into the 
different stages of menopause, including the symptoms and 
treatments at these different stages. As part of the fiscal 
year 2028 congressional justification, the Committee requests 
an update on recent NIH research into menopause and its 
treatments.
    Mental Health, Addiction, and Resilience Research.--The 
Committee understands diseases of the mind and brain can 
develop early in life and contribute to the persistent and 
rising rates of deaths of despair from mental illness and 
addiction. The Committee encourages NIH to support 
collaborative research efforts to uncover the root causes, 
risk, and resilience/protective factors of mental health and 
addiction. These efforts could include leveraging existing 
longitudinal research to analyze biological and other factors 
and their interactions that can put people at risk for 
addiction and mental illness, including patterns of 
intergenerational transmission of mental illness; ways to 
better prepare and respond to stress and trauma; and inform new 
strategies for prevention, recovery, and resilience.
    Microplastics.--The Committee notes that research has 
identified microplastics and nanoplastics in water, food, and 
air, and in the human body. The Committee encourages NIH to 
review primary chemicals in the life cycle analysis of plastic 
materials and impacts on human health. The Committee also 
encourages NIH to research the presence of microplastics and 
nanoplastics in the human body and the impacts on health.
    Mitochondrial Disease.--The Committee recognizes the need 
for the NIH to prioritize research on primary and secondary 
mitochondrial disease. A constellation of rare diseases linked 
to impaired mitochondrial function needs further research while 
potentially promising interventions work through the FDA 
approval process. At the same time, research continues to 
validate the substantial connections between mitochondrial 
function and major conditions such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, 
ALS, and Muscular Dystrophy. The Committee urges the NIH to 
advance mitochondrial disease research by fostering 
interdisciplinary collaborations and supporting primary 
mitochondrial disease research center awards.
    Mucopolysaccharidoses and Mucolipidosis.--The Committee 
recognizes the severity of Mucopolysaccharidoses and 
Mucolipidosis (MPS/ML) diseases and the need for additional 
research to improve life expectancy and quality of life for 
patients.
    Multi-Agency Coordination on New Alternative Models.--The 
Committee understands recent NIH actions to promote greater use 
of human-based research models, or new alternative models 
(NAMs), which include organoids, tissue chips, and 
computational models in NIH-funded research. NAMs have the 
potential to provide scientists with better predictive value 
for human responses in some areas of research compared to 
traditional animal models. Other Federal agencies such as FDA 
and EPA have announced plans to prioritize these new models, 
too, thereby replacing the use of animals in research and 
testing. The Committee notes the value in inter-agency 
coordination on shared priorities and therefore encourages 
NIH's continued coordination with other Federal scientific and 
research-oriented agencies regarding policies around NAMs. The 
Committee requests NIH include an update on activities related 
to prioritizing human-based research models in the fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification.
    New Approach Methodologies.--The Committee commends NIH for 
launching an initiative to expand and promote greater use of 
new approach methodologies (NAMs), also sometimes referred to 
as human-based models or non-animal models. NAMs include new, 
promising technologies such as tissue chips, organoids, and 
computational models. They hold the potential to provide better 
insights into human physiological responses in research and 
therefore improve our scientific understanding of human health 
and disease and ultimately drive advancements in health. The 
Committee understands a new Office of Research Innovation, 
Validation, and Application will coordinate agency-wide 
development and expansion of NAM approaches in NIH's research. 
The Committee further notes that in July 2025, NIH announced 
that it will no longer issue Notices of Funding Opportunities 
that exclusively support animal models or limit or specify 
which types of models must be used, a change that aims to 
ensure researchers propose using the most scientifically 
justified model. The Committee notes other NIH efforts related 
to NAMs, including announcing funding in March under the 
Complement Animal Research in Experimentation (Complement-AIRE) 
program, to fund projects that develop, standardize, and 
validate human-based NAMs. Additionally, as NIH implements its 
policies surrounding NAMs, the Committee encourages NIH to 
consider establishing a framework for NAMs that includes the 
criteria for qualification and validation of NAMs; a process 
for periodic review and updating of NAMs, and any incentives to 
promote the use of NAMs where scientifically justified. The 
Committee requests NIH include an update in the fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification on activities related to 
supporting the use of NAMs.
    Neuroarts Research.--The Committee notes the contribution 
of NIH to the burgeoning field of neuroarts, which shows great 
promise in advancing health and wellbeing for all.
    Neurofibromatosis.--The Committee supports efforts to 
increase funding and resources for Neurofibromatosis (NF) 
research and treatment at multiple Institutes, including NCI, 
NINDS, NIDCD, NHLBI, NICHD, NIMH, NCATS, and NEI. Children and 
adults with NF are at elevated risk for the development of many 
forms of cancer, deafness, blindness, developmental delays, and 
autism. The Committee encourages NCI to continue to support a 
robust NF research portfolio in fundamental laboratory science, 
patient directed research, and clinical trials focused on NF-
associated benign and malignant cancers. The Committee also 
encourages NCI to support preclinical research and clinical 
trials. Because NF can cause blindness, pain, and hearing loss, 
the Committee urges NEI, NINDS and NIDCD to continue to support 
fundamental basic science research on NF relevant to restoring 
normal nerve function. Based on emerging findings from numerous 
researchers worldwide demonstrating that children with NF have 
a higher chance of developing autism, learning disabilities, 
motor delays, and attention deficits, the Committee encourages 
NINDS, NIMH, and NICHD to continue their support of research 
investigations in these areas. Since NF2 accounts for some 
genetic forms of deafness, the Committee encourages NIDCD to 
expand its investment in NF2-related research. NF1 can cause 
vision loss due to optic gliomas. The Committee encourages NIH 
to expand its investment in NF1-focused research on optic 
gliomas and vision restoration.
    Non-Human Primates and Animal Models.--The Committee 
continues to recognize the essential role of non-human primates 
and other validated models in virtually all areas of biomedical 
research. Research with these unique models makes irreplaceable 
contributions to understanding the biological processes that 
cause diseases. These models remain indispensable in the 
discovery and evaluation of new therapeutics before they go to 
clinical trials. As the U.S. population ages, and millions of 
Americans suffer from chronic and degenerative diseases, 
including Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias, 
Parkinson's disease, cancer, and chronic pain, non-human 
primate research will continue be vital to understanding both 
the underlying mechanisms and potential cures for these 
diseases. Non-human primate and animal model research remains 
important to understanding the causes of age-related 
degenerative diseases and to improve the effectiveness of new 
compounds and non-pharmaceutical treatments such as deep brain 
stimulation and neuromodulation. Access to all scientific 
tools, including animal models, is critical to gaining control 
over challenging neurological diseases that severely impact our 
communities. The Committee encourages NIH to award funding to 
meritorious research proposals to study these degenerative 
disorders, as well as research into preventing the next 
pandemic, including studies that utilize non-human primates and 
other animal models.
    Nutrition Research.--The Committee acknowledges NIH's prior 
investments in nutrition research, including through various 
institutes and centers, the Office of Nutrition Research, and 
initiatives such as the Nutrition for Precision Health powered 
by the All of Us Research program. The Committee also notes 
that in May 2025, the NIH and FDA launched a joint Nutrition 
Regulatory Science Program, to advance nutrition research to 
inform policy decisions and improve health outcomes, through 
research into the relationship between ultra-processed foods 
and health, maternal and infant dietary exposures and health 
outcomes over the lifespan, and related areas. More remains to 
be learned about the role of nutrition in preventing and 
addressing chronic disease. To support NIH investment in 
nutrition and its relation to human health and disease, the 
Committee includes an increase of $5,000,000 from the fiscal 
year 2026 enacted level from amounts provided under the Office 
of the Director, to support nutrition research.
    Office for Research on Women's Health.--The Committee 
provides $111,480,000 for the Office of Research on Women's 
Health, which is $5,000,000 above the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level. The Committee recognizes that women's health includes 
conditions and diseases that disproportionately or differently 
affect women and that sex differences are at the cellular 
level. Despite prior investments and progress made, gaps remain 
in research, scientific understanding, and medical care due to 
factors such as a lack of consistent sex-based data, 
coordination across disciplines, and representative 
participation in clinical trials. The Committee notes that 
opportunities to enhance NIH efforts focused on the health of 
women across the lifespan could address these gaps and urges 
NIH to prioritize research that addresses the most pressing 
research gaps. Expanded research into diseases that 
disproportionately or differently affect women could lead to 
tremendous improvements in health outcomes. NIH is encouraged 
to expand basic, clinical, and translational research in this 
area, to improve understanding of the mechanisms underlying 
diseases and conditions including endometriosis, fibroids, 
pelvic floor disorders, and other prevalent gynecological 
conditions; advance early diagnostic and later prognostic 
markers of these heterogeneous conditions; and develop new 
preventative treatment methods. The Committee supports 
expanded, integrated NIH-wide investment in women's health 
research focused on accelerating innovative biomedical 
discoveries and solutions and requests an update in the fiscal 
year 2028 congressional justification on such research and the 
number of new and early-stage investigators conducting women's 
health research supported by these programs in fiscal year 
2027.
    Osteopathic Medical Schools.--Osteopathic medicine 
represents a vibrant portion of the medical student education 
and health systems ecosystem. It is well-positioned to help 
address urgent health challenges, especially in primary care, 
chronic disease, and rural and underserved communities. The 
Committee remains concerned with the historic disparity in NIH 
funding and representation for Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine 
(COMs) and appreciates NIH's commitment to broaden investments 
to more institutions and ideas. The Committee also appreciates 
recent engagement with osteopathic leaders and urges NIH to 
expand research funding opportunities and representation of 
COMs across NIH Institutes and Centers, including in study 
sections and national advisory councils, and to continue 
encouraging osteopathic researchers to apply for funding. The 
Committee requests NIH include information in the fiscal year 
2028 justification on NIH's actions and goals related to 
increasing osteopathic research funding opportunities and 
representation.
    Pain Management Improvements.--The Committee directs the 
National Institutes of Health (NIH) to study pain management 
improvement strategies for miscarriage.
    Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome.--The Committee 
commends OD for incorporating Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian 
Syndrome (PMOS) into Research, Condition, and Disease 
Categories reporting. Despite progress, the Committee notes the 
profound impact that PMOS has on 10 percent of women and its 
disproportionate economic burden compared to research project 
support. PMOS has metabolic, cardiovascular, reproductive, 
maternal health, and mental health manifestations, and there 
are no FDA-approved treatments specifically for PMOS. The 
Committee urges increased NIH support for PMOS research, 
including the metabolic, cardiovascular, psychosocial, maternal 
fetal, oncologic, pediatric, dermatologic, neurologic, and 
reproductive aspects of PMOS. The Committee encourages the NIH 
to invest in fundamental laboratory science, patient-oriented 
research, clinical trials, and longitudinal studies on the 
cardiometabolic features and endocrinopathy of PMOS throughout 
the lifespan. Areas of interest include closing knowledge gaps, 
researching novel diagnostics and treatments, research 
opportunities identified from the NHLBI report based on its 
2021 NIH workshop on cardiovascular risks across the lifespan 
in PMOS, and applying insights from the PMOS Externally Led 
Patient-Focused Drug Development Meeting and Voice of the 
Patient Report to address patients' unmet needs and treatment 
priorities. Additionally, in recognition that individuals with 
PMOS have a higher risk of depression or anxiety and an 
elevated risk of eating disorders compared to those without the 
condition, the Committee encourages NIH to consider basic 
research into the mental and behavioral health burden of PMOS. 
Such research could examine where elevated rates of mental 
health disorders in PMOS are driven by the biological effects 
of chronic hormonal and metabolic disruption, as well as other 
factors and their interactions. The Committee also encourages 
NIH to support research on the co-occurrence of mental health 
disorders in gynecological conditions such as PMOS, and on the 
effectiveness of evidence-based screening and intervention 
approaches in this population, including whether PMOS-
associated mental health conditions are clinically and 
mechanistically distinct from those in the general population.
    Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome and Other 
Autonomic Nervous System Disorders.--The Committee urges NIH to 
host a postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) expert 
symposium with participants from NINDS, NHLBI, NIDDK, NICHD, 
and leading external researchers and stakeholders to examine 
the current state of POTS research and gather input on updates 
in POTS research progress since the initial NIH POTS expert 
symposium held in July. The Committee further encourages NIH to 
expand and coordinate research on POTS and other autonomic 
nervous system disorders across relevant Institutes and 
Centers. This includes supporting targeted funding 
opportunities, translational research, and appropriately 
designed clinical studies, and ensuring stable pathways for 
investigator-initiated research applications. The Committee 
encourages NIH to support research addressing both infection-
associated and non-infectious forms of POTS and other autonomic 
nervous system disorders, and to identify opportunities to 
reduce duplication and accelerate progress across the NIH 
portfolio. Additionally, the Committee requests NIH include an 
update in the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification on 
the state of POTS research, recent progress made on POTS 
research priorities identified in NIH's January 2020 report to 
Congress, ``Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): 
State of the Science, Clinical Care, and Research;'' and 
potential areas of unmet need in POTS research.
    Precision Nutrition and Artificial Intelligence.--The 
Committee notes that artificial intelligence and machine 
learning models supporting precision nutrition research would 
benefit from standardized, open-access molecular data on foods 
to complement existing human multi-omic datasets. The Committee 
further notes interest among the research community in such 
data and is supportive of their efforts to develop such a 
resource. Within existing authorities, the Committee encourages 
NIH's continued collaboration with other Federal agencies, such 
as the FDA, in precision nutrition research activities. The 
Committee encourages NIH to include an update on activities 
related to precision nutrition research in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification.
    Replication Experiments and Fraud Detection.--The Committee 
is concerned that many biomedical research studies have turned 
out to be irreproducible and in some instances fraudulent. The 
Reproducibility Project in Cancer Biology showed that cancer 
biology studies in top journals often failed to be replicable 
(with replication effects that were 85 percent smaller than the 
original study), and a prominent line of Alzheimer's studies 
was found in recent years to be based on an allegedly 
fraudulent study funded by NIH in the early 2000s. The 
Committee commends NIH for setting reproducibility and rigor 
among its key priorities, as this will help restore public 
trust and confidence in the NIH and its mission and support 
scientific advancements in pursuit of improved human health. 
The Committee notes NIH's recent programs and efforts that 
support replication efforts, including a replication initiative 
supported by the Common Fund. The Committee continues to 
support the Office of the Director in coordinating and 
advancing such efforts at NIH and encourages robust support to 
fund replication experiments on significant lines of research, 
as well as attempts to proactively look for signs of academic 
fraud. The Committee requests NIH continue to provide an update 
on these efforts in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification.
    Prioritizing Improvements in Health Outcomes.--The 
Committee commends NIH for redoubling its commitment to carry 
out its core mission of supporting fundamental research that 
yields new knowledge, that in turn improves the health of 
Americans. In recognition of the persistent health challenges 
facing Americans, the Committee notes NIH's new unified funding 
strategy prioritizes the promotion of research that is focused 
on scientifically valid and measurable health outcomes, in 
support of delivering health advancements for all Americans. 
The Committee further notes that such efforts, combined with 
NIH's commitment to free inquiry and a wide range of 
viewpoints, have great potential for restoring trust in NIH's 
mission.
    Public Access Implementation.--The Committee recognizes the 
importance of public access to federally funded research in 
accelerating scientific discovery and maximizing taxpayer 
value. The Committee encourages continued collaboration between 
Federal agencies including the NIH and interested stakeholders 
to implement frameworks that protect author rights while 
serving the public interest, and any efforts by NIH to 
encourage publication of federally funded research in journals 
that support unbiased peer review and provide reliable 
repository infrastructure in the public interest.
    Research Involving Foreign Entities.--The Committee is 
aware of the strong interest in ensuring NIH can conduct 
necessary oversight over Federal research dollars that fund 
research conducted by overseas, such as at foreign universities 
or laboratories, given the implications for national security 
and the need to guard against potential waste, fraud, and abuse 
of taxpayer dollars. The Committee notes NIH's shift from using 
foreign subawards to a new application and award structure for 
grants that involve foreign entities, to ensure NIH can track 
Federal funding and ensure recipients are complying with all 
NIH grants terms and conditions. This policy change follows 
congressional concerns, as well as audits by multiple Federal 
agencies that found deficiencies in NIH's ability to oversee 
grants to foreign recipients. Among these are the GAO reports, 
``The National Institutes of Health Did Not Receive 81 of 109 
Required Audit Reports for Foreign Grant Recipients,'' 
published December 14, 2023, and ``NIH Could Take Additional 
Acts to Manage Risks Involving Foreign Subrecipients,'' issued 
June 14, 2023.
    Research Projects of Concern.--The Committee is aware of 
concerns about certain NIH-funded research projects receiving 
initial awards between November 1984 and December 2022, chiefly 
that such research was wasteful or high-risk. The Committee 
notes congressional investigations related to COVID-19, 
including efforts focused on NIH grant oversight and 
transparency. The Committee is also aware of the recent 
indictment of a former NIAID employee for alleged evasion of 
Freedom of Information Act requests related to COVID-19 
research grant, following an investigation by the Federal 
Bureau of Investigation and the HHS Office of Inspector 
General. Additionally, the Committee notes NIH's implementation 
of Executive Order 14292, ``Improving the Safety and Security 
of Biological Research,'' issued May 5, 2025, related to ending 
Federal funding of dangerous gain-of-function research 
conducted in countries of concern or those with insufficient 
oversight.
    Sex Differences in Aging Biology.--The Committee recognizes 
growing evidence that women and men age differently. Women, on 
average, live longer than men but often suffer worse health--
making more doctor visits, taking more medications, losing more 
time from work due to illness, and undergoing more medical 
procedures. Emerging evidence from preclinical studies suggests 
that interventions designed to extend lifespan or healthspan 
often work in only one sex. Despite these observations, the 
biological mechanisms underlying sex differences in aging and 
age-related disease remain poorly understood. The Committee 
encourages NIH to continue to support research on sex 
differences in aging across the course of life.
    Sex Differentiated Biomedical Research.--The Committee 
recognizes the influence of biological sex on health, disease 
susceptibility, disease progression, and responses to 
treatment, but understands knowledge gaps remain in 
understanding how sex-based differences affect health outcomes 
across many medical conditions and treatments. The Committee 
encourages NIH to continue expanding research examining sex as 
a biological variable and the role of hormonal factors in 
health and disease, to understand the effects of sex and 
hormonal changes on disease mechanisms, symptom presentation, 
and treatment response. NIH is encouraged to consider 
biological sex differences in study design, enrollment, data 
collection, and analysis, including through sufficient 
representation of males and females to allow meaningful 
evaluation of outcomes. The Committee further encourages NIH to 
continue supporting the integration of sex-specific analysis 
into study design, peer review, and distribution of research 
findings, as appropriate. The Committee encourages the 
Department to include an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification on NIH-supported activities related 
to sex differences and hormonal influences in biomedical 
research.
    Sjogren's Disease.--The Committee is aware that patients 
may wait several years on average for a diagnosis of Sjogren's 
disease. There is potential for promising new therapies, but 
the Committee notes that Sjogren's disease is a highly 
heterogeneous disease. Recognizing that research into Sjogren's 
disease can lead to improved care for those living with this 
disease, the Committee requests an update in the fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification on NIH research and other 
activities related to the diagnosis and treatment of Sjogren's 
disease, including such activities related to better diagnosis, 
characterization of the full spectrum of the disease, and 
advancing possible new treatments.
    Strategic Decisions.--The Committee encourages NIH, as part 
of any future strategic decisions regarding intramural research 
facilities, to take into consideration factors such as cost-
effectiveness and feasibility of leveraging collaborations with 
other research partners and institutions.
    Success Rates.--No later than 180 days after enactment of 
this Act, the agency is directed to publicly post and maintain 
on the agency's website a listing of all grant success rates by 
institute or center, grant mechanism, and fiscal year. Such 
website information shall be easily accessible and include 
options to export into an electronic data format. Initial 
information should include the last 10 years, to the extent 
practicable, and be maintained on the website indefinitely.
    Virus and Mental Illness.--The Committee understands the 
connection between physical and mental health, including as 
relates to contraction of a long-term disease or viral 
infection. The Committee therefore encourages NIH to consider 
research into the effects of viral infections, especially 
common ones in youths and young adults, as well as effects on 
the development of mental illness in adulthood.
    Women's Health Research Through Engineering.--The Committee 
encourages NIH-supported research on the use of engineering 
techniques, such as in vitro models, computational models, and 
AI, to address diseases that directly affect women. Such 
efforts could also include a stakeholder workshop, which would 
also allow for the sharing of best practices on the use of 
specific engineered biophysical models to advance diagnostics 
and aid in therapeutic development.

                        BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026...........                  $350,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027..........                   350,000,000
Committee Recommendation..................                   355,000,000
    Change from enacted level.............                    +5,000,000
    Change from budget request............                    +5,000,000
 

    Mission.--This account provides for the design, 
construction, improvement, major repair, and demolition of 
clinical, laboratory, and office buildings and supporting 
facilities essential to the mission of the NIH. The funds in 
this appropriation support the buildings on the main NIH campus 
in Bethesda, Maryland; the Animal Center in Poolesville, 
Maryland; the National Institute of Environmental Health 
Sciences facility in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina; 
the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases in 
Hamilton, Montana; and other smaller facilities throughout the 
U.S.
    The Committee believes that safe, reliable, and updated 
facilities are integral for supporting NIH research now and in 
the future. The Committee notes that the agency's maintenance 
and repairs backlog across its campuses exceeded $4.6 billion 
as of the end of fiscal year 2025. The Committee also 
understands that necessary emergency repairs can interrupt 
operations. Therefore, the Committee appreciates NIH's 
attention to its Repairs and Improvements program to ensure 
facilities remain efficient and well-performing and reduce 
costly or disruptive building emergencies.

         ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY FOR HEALTH (ARPA-H)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $1,500,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       945,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     1,500,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................          +555,000
 

    Mission.--The Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health 
fosters the development of novel, breakthrough, and broadly 
applicable capabilities and technologies to accelerate 
transformative innovation in biomedical science and medicine in 
a manner that cannot be readily accomplished through 
traditional Federal biomedical research and development 
programs or commercial activity.
    ALS Research.--The Committee encourages ARPA-H to support 
research and development programs and projects to develop 
therapies and treatments for ALS and related neurodegenerative 
disorders, as well as research in other areas for which the 
findings could be applied to address pressing research 
questions and gaps in knowledge in the broader field of ALS 
research.
    Lyme and Other Tick-Borne Diseases (TBD).--The Committee 
recognizes the value of and encourages ARPA-H to evaluate the 
potential benefits of supporting research and development 
programs and projects related to TBD. Examples of potential 
research and development activities could include research 
related to TBD diagnostics and a Bartonella unit. The Committee 
encourages ARPA-H support in this area to build upon progress 
in this area.
    Mental Health Research.--The Committee encourages ARPA-H to 
support mental health research, including on the diagnosis and 
treatment of severe mental illness to address widespread 
behavioral health issues. The Committee also encourages 
research on developing treatments and cures for neurological 
conditions such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and 
bipolar, as well as dementia. Such support has the potential to 
spur industry developments and academic partnerships. As part 
of the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification, the 
Committee requests ARPA-H include information highlighting 
initiatives and projects that relate to advancing research in 
mental health, and whether such projects are basic, 
translational, or clinical research.
    Microgravity Life Sciences Research.--The Committee 
recognizes the potential for ARPA-H to leverage Federal 
investment in microgravity research to advance transformative 
breakthroughs in human health, given that research in 
microgravity environments has demonstrated unique advantages 
for biotechnology development, pharmaceutical discovery, and 
novel manufacturing processes that are not achievable under 
terrestrial conditions. Such research has the potential to 
accelerate the development of therapeutics, improve drug 
delivery systems, expand access to innovative treatments in 
rural communities, enhance patient outcomes, and reduce health 
care costs. The Committee encourages ARPA-H to incorporate 
microgravity-enabled research and development into its project 
portfolio and to coordinate with relevant Federal partners to 
maximize the return on prior investments. The Committee 
requests ARPA-H to provide an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification on potential opportunities related 
to this field, and information on necessary coordination with 
other agencies.
    Rapid Therapeutics in Behavioral Health.--The Committee was 
encouraged by ARPA-H's announcement of the Evidence-Based 
Validation & Innovation for Rapid Therapeutics in Behavioral 
Health (EVIDENT) program and its commitment of up to 
$100,000,000 to address longstanding gaps in the evaluation, 
validation, and scalable deployment of rapid-acting behavioral 
health interventions. The Committee encourages ARPA-H to build 
on this effort by supporting new clinical and implementation 
trials focused on improving scalability and access to promising 
interventions, including those related to prioritizing 
populations disproportionately impacted by PTSD and other 
serious mental health conditions.
    Technology Commercialization.--The Committee has expressed 
support for ARPA-H activities that speed the translation of 
ARPA-H-funded innovative health technologies to market, 
including the network of researchers, entrepreneurs, and 
investors build by the agency. The Committee also notes the 
potential of funding sprints to rapidly accelerate innovation 
in priority areas. The Committee understands ARPA-H has 
undertaken efforts to rethink the structure, scope, and 
performance goals of such commercialization activities and 
encourages ARPA-H to continue providing periodic updates to the 
Committee regarding the status of such efforts and its 
commercialization activities, including the agency's 
incorporation subject matter and operational expertise to 
ensure a successful commercialization network and its support 
for funded performers developing transition or 
commercialization strategies. ARPA-H is also encouraged to 
indicate the metrics it is using to measure success in 
commercialization.

       Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration


 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $7,439,617,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     6,685,210,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     7,294,275,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -145,342,000
    Change from budget request........................      +609,065,000
 

    The Committee recommendation for the SAMHSA program level 
includes $7,148,608,000 in discretionary budget authority, 
$133,667,000 in PHS Evaluation Tap Funding, and $12,000,000 in 
transfers from the PPHF.
    SAMHSA leads public health efforts to reduce the impact of 
substance abuse and mental illness in the United States. The 
Committee notes provisional CDC data indicating that U.S. drug 
overdose fatalities fell by nearly 14 percent in 2025 compared 
with the previous year. The U.S. suicide rate also declined by 
nearly 3 percent in 2024 after reaching a 24-year high, with 
deaths falling significantly among young adults ages 25 to 34. 
While drug overdose and suicide deaths remain exceptionally 
high, the Committee commends this incremental progress made and 
recognizes SAMHSA's efforts to reduce adverse health outcomes 
related to substance abuse and mental illness.
    The Committee continues to include bill language that 
exempts the MHBG and the SUPTRS block grants as a source of 
funding for the PHS Act section 241 evaluation set aside in 
fiscal year 2027.
    Adolescent Mental Health.--The Committee remains concerned 
about the high rates of mental health challenges and suicidal 
ideation, particularly among adolescent females. Recent studies 
find that adolescent females are highly susceptible to negative 
health outcomes associated with extended social media use, 
including higher rates of psychological distress, body image 
issues, and eating disorders. The Committee continues to 
instruct SAMHSA to complete the directives outlined in the 
original explanatory statement accompanying Division D of P.L. 
118-47 and reiterated in the explanatory statement accompanying 
Division B of P.L. 119-75.
    AI Chatbots and Youth Mental Health.--The Committee is 
concerned that there are a growing number of minors who are 
turning to AI Chatbots for companionship, including friendships 
and romantic relationships, over human connections. The 
Committee recognizes the need to ensure the use of AI Chatbots 
is safe, appropriate, and not exploitative of youth. The 
Committee is aware that nearly 64 percent of U.S. teenagers use 
AI Chatbots and with 95 percent of U.S. teenagers having access 
to their own smartphone, AI use will likely increase. The 
Committee is aware that AI Chatbots have been involved in 
disturbing instances of children committing suicide and self-
harm. Therefore, the Committee urges SAMHSA to provide an 
update in the 2028 congressional justification on efforts to 
address AI use among children and adolescents, including 
investments made to address the rising rates of loneliness, 
isolation, and other mental health issues associated with the 
use of AI Chatbots.
    Eligible Grantees.--Where permitted in the authorizing 
statute, the Committee directs SAMHSA, when issuing new funding 
opportunity announcements, to include as an eligible applicant 
States, political subdivisions of States (including local 
governments, communities, and municipalities), Tribes or Tribal 
organizations, other public or nonprofit entities, and faith-
based organizations. The Committee encourages SAMHSA to provide 
outreach and technical assistance to ensure the maximum level 
of awareness and participation in new grant announcements to 
ensure robust competition.
    First Responders Behavioral Health.--The Committee 
encourages the Secretary to establish an interagency working 
group focused on peer-to-peer behavioral health programs for 
first responders. The working group is encouraged to consider 
best practices for peer-to-peer behavioral health programs that 
are tailored to first responders and issue updated 
recommendations to Congress on ways to improve mental and 
behavioral health outcomes for first responders. The Committee 
further encourages HHS to consult with other relevant 
interagency, State, and local partners to help inform these 
recommendations.
    Gambling Addiction.--The Committee notes the ongoing 
problem of gambling addiction. This behavioral disorder often 
leads to poor financial, emotional, social, occupational, and 
physical health outcomes. The Committee continues to direct 
SAMHSA to include in its fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification information on how the agency is supporting 
prevention and treatment efforts for individuals struggling 
with gambling addiction.
    Hair Testing Guidance.--The Committee recognizes that 
section 5402 of the Fixing America's Surface Transportation 
(FAST) Act (P.L. 114-94) required the Secretary to ``issue 
scientific and technical guidelines for hair testing as a 
method of detecting the use of a controlled substance for 
purposes of section 31306 of title 49, U.S. Code'', which is 
the drug and alcohol testing program for operators of 
commercial motor vehicles. More than a decade has passed, and 
HHS has only issued proposed mandatory guidelines in 2020. 
Therefore, the Committee directs SAMHSA to issue final 
guidance, in accordance with the FAST Act, and to provide a 
briefing on the implementation of those guidelines within 120 
days of enactment of this Act.
    Harm Reduction.--The Committee commends the Trump 
Administration's recent guidance to shift away from harm 
reduction activities that facilitate illicit drug use and run 
counter to Federal law, including the use of taxpayer dollars 
to purchase drug testing kits. The Committee continues to 
prioritize funding for evidence-based addiction treatment and 
recovery, including the use of FDA-approved medications for 
opioid use disorder. While the Committee provides no funding 
for harm reduction activities, the Committee continues to 
support the availability and provision of naloxone and other 
opioid overdose reversal medications to reduce overdose deaths.
    Hospital Diversion Pilot Program.--The Committee is 
concerned about the emergency room boarding crisis, especially 
for individuals in a mental health crisis. The Committee 
encourages the Department to implement a pilot program modeled 
after successful State hospital diversion programs, in which 
young people experiencing a mental health crisis and at risk of 
being hospitalized are instead referred to receive care at home 
from trusted behavioral and mental health providers.
    Opioid Settlement Funds.--The Committee acknowledges that 
recipients of opioid settlement funds should maintain 
transparency, accountability, and clear alignment with 
evidence-based opioid use disorder prevention, treatment, and 
recovery services. The Committee encourages SAMHSA, in 
coordination with CDC and the Office of National Drug Control 
Policy (ONDCP), to provide technical assistance to States and 
localities on best practices for administering opioid 
settlement funds, including models that prioritize the use of 
evidence-based treatment, recovery supports, and overdose 
prevention.
    Right to Bear Arms.--The Committee recognizes that firearm 
ownership is a constitutionally guaranteed right recognized by 
the United States Supreme Court. SAMHSA should issue no 
guidance, nor make a requirement of any recipient of Federal 
funding, that seeks to restrict, limit, hinder, or further 
diminish this fundamental right.
    Rural Opioid Technical Assistance Regional Centers.--The 
Committee continues to direct SAMHSA to maintain funding for 
the 10 cooperative agreements under the Rural Opioid Technical 
Assistance Regional Centers program at not less than the fiscal 
year 2024 level without consolidation of the program.
    Suicide Prevention.--The Committee recognizes that suicide 
is a serious public health problem requiring strategic suicide 
prevention solutions, especially among disproportionately 
impacted populations. The Committee further recognizes that 
suicide prevention requires a strategic public health approach 
that addresses multiple risk factors at the individual, 
community, and societal levels. States, Tribes, and territories 
are most suited to lead a comprehensive public health approach 
to suicide prevention, which demands effectively coordinating 
with multisector partners to take a data-driven, evidence-based 
process that addresses the broad range of risk and protective 
factors associated with suicide.

                             MENTAL HEALTH

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $2,823,446,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     1,489,831,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     2,790,666,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -32,780,000
    Change from budget request........................    +1,300,835,000
 

Assisted Outpatient Treatment for Individuals with Serious 
        Mental Illness

    The Committee provides $23,420,000 for Assisted Outpatient 
Treatment for Individuals with Serious Mental Illness (AOT), an 
increase of $2,000,000 above the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, to deliver outpatient treatment under a civil court 
order to adults with a serious mental illness who meet State 
civil commitment AOT criteria, such as prior history of non-
adherence to treatment, repeated hospitalizations, or arrest. 
The Committee notes that AOT may reduce psychiatric 
hospitalizations, emergency department visits, and 
incarceration rates while improving health outcomes and 
treatment satisfaction and adherence. The Committee encourages 
HHS to continue supporting the implementation and evaluation of 
new AOT programs, including the continued support for the 
technical assistance center. The Committee notes ongoing 
assessment challenges of existing AOT programs and urges the 
Department to identify program metrics that can be reliably 
reported by grantees for the purpose of assessing the grant 
program's effectiveness. The Department should also continue to 
work with grantees to ensure that their programs are consistent 
with the goals of the AOT program and focused on serving 
participants who would not otherwise agree to participate in 
treatment voluntarily.

Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics

    The Committee provides $385,500,000 for Certified Community 
Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs), which is the same as the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level. CCBHCs are designed to ensure 
access to coordinated comprehensive behavioral health care by 
providing care for mental health or substance abuse to all who 
request such services regardless of their age or ability to 
pay. CCBHCs provide access to crisis services around the clock, 
support outpatient mental health and substance use services, 
and community-based mental health care for veterans.
    Integrated Care.--The Committee continues to recognize that 
individuals living with serious mental illnesses and substance 
use disorders face higher risks for developing chronic physical 
conditions commonly associated with long-term use of 
antipsychotics including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and 
medication-induced movement disorders such as tardive 
dyskinesia. The Committee urges SAMHSA to expand technical 
assistance to improve integrated care through the CCBHC State 
Technical Assistance Center and the CCBHC Expansion Grantee 
National Training and Technical Assistance Center. This 
technical assistance and training would enhance routine 
screening, prevention, and early intervention for physical 
health conditions commonly associated with long-term use of 
antipsychotic medications, particularly among high-risk 
populations. The Committee further encourages SAMHSA to 
coordinate with HRSA to facilitate dissemination of technical 
information on screening at-risk patients in integrated care 
models to Federally Qualified Health Centers and Rural Health 
Clinics. The Committee requests an update in the fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification on these efforts.

Children's Mental Health Services

    The Committee provides $132,000,000 for Children's Mental 
Health Services, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level, to fund grants and technical assistance for 
community-based services for children and adolescents with 
serious emotional, behavioral, or mental disorders. The 
Committee maintains a 10 percent set-aside for demonstration 
grants or contracts that address the needs of individuals with 
early serious mental illness, including psychotic disorders 
among at-risk children and youth. These funds assist States, 
local jurisdictions, and Tribes in developing integrated 
systems of community care. The Committee directs SAMHSA to 
continue supporting grant funding and the technical assistance 
center, including efforts to increase mental health services 
and supports for children and youth.

Mental Health Services Block Grant

    The Committee provides $1,047,571,000 for the MHBG, an 
increase of $35,000,000 above the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level. Of the funds provided, $21,039,000 shall be derived from 
evaluation set aside funds available under section 241 of the 
PHS Act. The MHBG provides funds to States to support mental 
illness prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation services. 
Funds are allocated according to a statutory formula among the 
States that have submitted approved annual plans. The Committee 
continues the 5 percent set aside within MHBG for crisis-based 
services. The Committee notes that, consistent with State 
plans, communities may choose to direct additional funding to 
crises stabilization programs.
    Prevention and Early Intervention.--The Committee 
recognizes that early intervention is an important upstream 
approach to preventing, delaying, or reducing the onset and 
severity of mental illness and behavioral problems. Intervening 
before symptoms progress to a diagnosable condition helps build 
resilience in individuals--particularly children and youth--
while strengthening families and communities. Therefore, the 
Committee urges SAMHSA to work with States, Tribes, and 
territories to support evidence-based programs focused on the 
prevention and early intervention of mental disorders among 
high-risk populations. The Committee further requests that 
SAMHSA include an update in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification on the agency's efforts.

National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative

    The Committee provides $102,887,000 for the National Child 
Traumatic Stress Initiative (NCTSI), an increase of $2,000,000 
above the fiscal year 2026 enacted level, to increase access to 
effective trauma and grief-focused treatment and services 
systems for children, adolescents, and their families who 
experience traumatic events. The Committee recognizes NCTSI's 
network for building, evaluating, disseminating, and delivering 
evidence-based services and best practices to prevent and 
mitigate the impact of exposure to trauma among children and 
families. The Committee encourages SAMHSA to continue awarding 
new Category I, II, and III grants to meet core mission 
activities of NCTSI, support collaboration among grantees, and 
expand the capacity of current NCTSI grantees for activities 
related to child trauma.

Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness

    The Committee provides $66,635,000 for the Projects for 
Assistance in Transition from Homelessness program, which is 
the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted program level, to 
provide grants to States and territories for assistance to 
individuals suffering from severe mental illness and/or 
substance use disorders and who are experiencing homelessness 
or are at imminent risk of becoming homeless. Grants may be 
used for outreach, screening and diagnostic treatment services, 
rehabilitation services, community mental health services, 
alcohol or drug treatment services, training, case management 
services, supportive and supervisory services in residential 
settings, and a limited set of housing services.

Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness

    The Committee provides $42,000,000 for the Protection and 
Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness program (PAIMI), 
an increase of $2,000,000 above the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, to support legal-based advocacy services to ensure the 
rights of individuals with mental illness, protect and advocate 
for these rights, and investigate incident of abuse and/or 
neglect. The Committee notes that Federal funding continues to 
supplement non-Federal funds available to States for PAIMI 
activities.
    Within the total provided for Mental Health Programs of 
Regional and National Significance, the Committee includes the 
following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Capacity:
    Seclusion and Restraint                $1,147,000         $1,147,000
     appropriations...............
    Project AWARE appropriations..        140,001,000        151,052,000
        State Grants                      110,501,000        110,501,000
         appropriations...........
        Community Violence and             17,500,000         17,500,000
         Trauma appropriations ...
        School-Based Trauma                12,000,000         12,000,000
         Informed Care
         appropriations...........
        Tribal Set-Aside                        - - -         11,051,000
         appropriations...........
    Mental Health Awareness                27,963,000              - - -
     Training appropriations......
    Healthy Transitions                    18,451,000         18,451,000
     appropriations...............
    Infant and Early Childhood             15,000,000         16,000,000
     Mental Health appropriations.
    Children and Family Programs            7,729,000          7,729,000
     appropriations...............
    Consumer and Family Network             3,954,000              - - -
     Grants appropriations........
    Project LAUNCH appropriations.         19,605,000         19,605,000
    Mental Health System                    3,779,000              - - -
     Transformation appropriations
    Primary and Behavioral Health          55,877,000         55,877,000
     Care Integration
     appropriations...............
    National Strategy for Suicide          30,200,000         30,200,000
     Prevention appropriations....
        Zero Suicide                       23,800,000         23,800,000
         appropriations (non-add).
        American Indian and Alaska          4,400,000          4,400,000
         Native appropriations
         (non-add)................
    Mental Health Crisis Response          20,000,000              - - -
     Grants appropriations........
    988 Lifeline appropriations...        534,618,000        544,618,000
    Garrett Lee Smith-Youth                45,806,000         47,806,000
     Suicide Prevention
     appropriations...............
        State Grants                       33,806,000         35,806,000
         appropriations...........
        State Grants Transfer from         12,000,000         12,000,000
         Prevention and Public
         Health Fund..............
    Garrett Lee Smith-Youth                10,488,000         12,488,000
     Suicide Prevention Campus
     Grants appropriations........
    American Indian and Alaska              4,931,000          4,931,000
     Native Suicide Prevention
     Initiative appropriations....
    Tribal Behavioral Health               26,250,000         30,000,000
     Grants appropriations........
    Homeless Prevention Programs           28,096,000              - - -
     appropriations...............
    Minority AIDS appropriations..          9,224,000              - - -
    Criminal and Juvenile Justice          11,269,000              - - -
     Programs appropriations......
    Assertive Community Treatment           6,000,000          7,000,000
     for Individuals with Serious
     Mental Illness appropriations
    Interagency Task Force on               2,000,000          2,000,000
     Trauma-Informed Care
     appropriations...............
Science and Service:
    Garrett Lee Smith-Suicide              11,000,000         11,000,000
     Prevention Resource Center
     appropriations...............
    Practice Improvement and                7,828,000          7,828,000
     Training appropriations......
    Consumer and Consumer Support           1,918,000          1,918,000
     Technical Assistance Centers
     appropriations...............
    Primary and Behavioral Health           3,991,000          3,991,000
     Care Integration Technical
     Assistance appropriations....
    Minority Fellowship Program            11,059,000         11,059,000
     appropriations...............
    Disaster Response                       1,953,000          1,953,000
     appropriations...............
    Homelessness appropriations...          2,296,000              - - -
    Eating Disorder                         2,000,000          4,000,000
     Identification, Treatment,
     and Recovery appropriations..
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Capacity:

    Seclusion and Restraint.--The Committee provides 
$1,147,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, to reduce the inappropriate use of seclusion and 
restraint practices through the provision of technical 
assistance and the promotion of alternatives to restraint, 
seclusion, and other coercive practices.
    Project AWARE.--The Committee provides $151,052,000 for 
Project AWARE (Advancing Wellness and Resiliency in Education), 
an increase of $11,051,000 above the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, to implement mental health related promotion, awareness, 
prevention, intervention, and resilience activities to ensure 
that school-aged youth have access and are connected to trauma-
informed and developmentally appropriate behavioral health 
services. The Committee notes that program funding is intended 
to supplement State and local investments in school mental 
health services.
    Within the amount provided, the Committee includes 
$11,051,000 for Tribes and Tribal organizations.
    Mental Health Awareness Training.--The Committee provides 
no funding for the Mental Health Awareness Training to better 
ensure that SAMHSA prioritizes services and programing for 
individuals with severe mental illness.
    Healthy Transitions.--The Committee provides $18,451,000 
for the Healthy Transitions program, which is the same as the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level, to expand access to services 
and supports for transition-aged youth and young adults with 
serious mental illness.
    Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health.--The Committee 
provides $16,000,000 for the Infant and Early Childhood Mental 
Health program, an increase of $1,000,000 above fiscal year 
2026 enacted level, to support human service agencies and 
nonprofit organizations that provide age-appropriate mental 
health promotion and early intervention or treatment for 
children with significant risk of developing mental illness 
including through direct services, assessments, and trainings 
for clinicians and education providers. Increased funding is 
included to expand funding to additional communities, working 
to build the infrastructure and systems needed to deliver early 
childhood meant health services.
    Children and Family Programs.--The Committee provides 
$7,729,000 for the Children and Family program, which is the 
same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level, to provide grants 
to Tribes and Tribal organizations for community-based services 
and supports for children and youth, with or at risk for mental 
illness.
    Consumer and Family Network Grants.--Consistent with the 
fiscal year 2027 budget request, the Committee provides no 
funding for this program. The Committee prioritizes treatment, 
prevention, and support services for individuals with serious 
mental illness and does not provide funding for broad advocacy 
activities that may promote bias views on mental health 
treatment.
    Project LAUNCH.--The Committee provides $19,605,000 for 
Project LAUNCH, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level. Project LAUNCH provides grants for screening, 
prevention, and early intervention for behavioral health issues 
for children.
    Mental Health System Transformation.--Consistent with the 
fiscal year 2027 budget request, the Committee provides no 
funding for this program.
    Primary and Behavioral Health Care Integration.--The 
Committee provides $55,877,000 for the Primary and Behavioral 
Health Care Integration program, which is the same as the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level, to promote full integration and 
collaboration in clinical practice between behavioral 
healthcare and primary/physical healthcare. The key goal of 
this program is to improve patient access to integrated health 
care services which requires bilateral cooperation between 
physicians and technical assistance centers. The Committee 
notes that integration of primary and behavioral health has 
been found to increase access to mental health and substance 
use recovery services for communities, including rural 
communities, that lack access to such services and encourages 
SAMHSA in making awards to prioritize such communities.
    Mental Health Crisis Response Partnership Pilot Program.--
Consistent with the fiscal year 2027 budget request, the 
Committee provides no funding for this program.
    National Strategy for Suicide Prevention.--The Committee 
provides $30,200,000 for the implementation of the National 
Strategy for Suicide Prevention, which is the same as the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    Within the amount provided, the Committee includes 
$23,800,000 for the Zero Suicide program, which is the same as 
the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. Zero Suicide grants support 
suicide prevention efforts in health systems, including 
screening adults for suicide risks, providing referral 
services, implementing evidence-based practices to provide 
services to adults at-risk, and raising awareness of such 
risks.
    Within the amount provided, $4,400,000 is included for Zero 
Suicide grants to American Indian and Alaska Native health 
systems, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level.
    988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.--The Committee provides 
$544,618,000 for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, an increase 
of $10,000,000 above the fiscal year 2026 enacted level, to 
support the national suicide hotline to continue to support 
State and local suicide prevention call centers as well as a 
national network of backup call centers and the national 
coordination of such centers.
    988 Call Center Abandonment.--The Committee is concerned by 
the persistently elevated abandonment rates within the 988 
Lifeline. In 2023, approximately 44 percent of calls were 
abandoned before routing to a local contact center, and 11 
percent of routed calls were abandoned while waiting to be 
connected to a counselor. Early improvements following 
implementation of a shortened integrated voice response (IVR) 
system demonstrate that targeted adjustments can help reduce 
abandonment. The Committee directs SAMHSA, in partnership with 
the national administrator and state and local contact center 
operators, to identify operational, technical, and workforce 
factors contributing to abandonment, develop evidence-based 
strategies to reduce abandonment, and establish clear 
performance benchmarks for improvement. Within 60 days of 
enactment of this Act, the Committee further directs SAMHSA to 
provide a briefing with a status update on this effort.
    988 Program Integrity.--The Committee recognizes the vital 
work of the 988 Lifeline service and the important role of 
State partners in suicide prevention and behavioral health. As 
States continue to establish and develop 988 programs, the 
Committee continues to direct SAMHSA to maintain State choice 
in their technology platform provided these programs meet 
SAMHSA's established minimum standards and minimum standards 
through SAMHSA's 988 Network Administration that support 
integration into the broader 988 system. States should have the 
flexibility to utilize a platform that best facilitates 
seamless coordination with local crisis and emergency response 
teams; accommodates a connection to follow-up and community 
resources; incorporates robust cybersecurity standards; and 
ensures that sensitive user data is being safeguarded and 
protected. The Committee instructs SAMHSA to complete the 
briefing directive included under this heading in the House 
Report 119-271.
    988 Public Awareness and Education Activities.--The 
Committee notes that suicide remains a leading cause of death 
amongst adolescents and young adults, yet only 5 percent of 
individuals aged 18-29 are familiar with the 988 Suicide and 
Crisis Lifeline in 2024. Therefore, the Committee directs 
SAMHSA to prioritize funding for 988 public awareness and 
education activities targeted toward high-risk populations, 
including adolescents and young adults. The Committee urges HHS 
to coordinate with the relevant Departments and young adult 
behavioral health stakeholders, such as stakeholders serving 
secondary school and postsecondary students to increase 
adolescent and young adult awareness of 988 via awareness 
activities, including the publication of 988 on newly issued 
student identification cards and driver's licenses, including 
digital IDs, as authorized under P.L. 117-328 Sec. 1103. The 
Committee requests that SAMHSA include an update in the fiscal 
year 2028 congressional justification on the agency's progress 
in addressing disparities in public awareness and utilization 
of the 988 Lifeline, including the allocation of funds for the 
purposes of carrying out public awareness and education 
activities.
    988 Tribal Capacity Building.--Tribal Nations continue to 
face unique challenges with fully adopting 988 services, 
including access to technology and crisis support services, 
intergovernmental coordination, and culturally responsive 
mental health services. The Committee instructs SAMHSA to 
complete the briefing directive included under this heading in 
the House Report 119-271.
    Garrett Lee Smith Youth Suicide Prevention.--The Committee 
provides $60,294,000 for GLS Youth Suicide Prevention grant 
programs, an increase of $4,000,000 above the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level.
    Within the amount provided, the Committee includes 
$47,806,000 for grants to States and Tribes to support 
development and implementation efforts of youth suicide 
prevention activities and services, an increase of $2,000,000 
above the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. Of the funds 
provided, $12,000,000 shall be transferred from the PPHF.
    Within the amount provided, $12,488,000 is included for 
grants to institutions of higher education to support students 
with mental health or substance use disorders, an increase of 
$2,000,000 above the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    Garrett Lee Smith Campus Grants.--The Committee recognizes 
that delayed mental health treatment can lead to higher acuity, 
health care costs, and suicide rates. Campus programs that 
provide peer training on early intervention and education on 
primary prevention have shown promise in improving treatment-
seeking behaviors and mental health referrals among students. 
Therefore, the Committee urges SAMHSA to require applicants to 
seek input from relevant stakeholders, including student-
serving mental health groups on campus, to better reach 
students in need of support. The Committee requests that SAMHSA 
include an update in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification on the impact and effectiveness of peer-to-peer 
education, awareness, peer support activities, and the agency's 
efforts to improve such activities as part of the grants to 
institutions of higher education program. The Committee 
supports SAMHSA's waiver of matching funds for minority-serving 
institutions and community colleges in the 2024 funding notice 
and directs the Department to continue to waive this 
requirement in future funding opportunities.
    American Indian/Alaska Native Suicide Prevention 
Initiative.--The Committee provides $4,931,000 for the Tribal 
Training and Technical Assistance Center, which is the same as 
the fiscal year 2026 enacted level, to facilitate the 
development and implementation of comprehensive and 
collaborative community-based prevention plans to reduce 
suicide among American Indians/Alaska Natives (AI/AN), prevent 
substance misuse, and reduce substance misuse among AI/AN 
communities.
    Tribal Behavioral Grants.--The Committee provides 
$30,000,000, an increase of $3,750,000 above the fiscal year 
2026 enacted level, to prevent and reduce suicidal behavior and 
substance use, reduce the impact of trauma, and promote mental 
health among AI/AN youth, through age 24.
    Homelessness Prevention Programs.--The Committee provides 
no funding for the Homelessness Prevention Programs, noting 
that these programs are duplicative of the Projects for 
Assistance in Transition from Homelessness program and other 
federal housing assistance programs administered by the 
Department of Housing and Urban Development.
    Criminal and Juvenile Justice Activities.--Consistent with 
the fiscal year 2027 budget request, the Committee provides no 
funding for this program. The Committee notes that the Office 
of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention under the 
Department of Justice provides funding to States and Tribes for 
the purpose of improving the juvenile justice system, including 
support for mental health and substance abuse treatment.
    Assertive Community Treatment for Individuals with Serious 
Mental Illness.--The Committee provides $7,000,000 for 
Assertive Community Treatment programs, an increase of 
$1,000,000 above the fiscal year 2026 enacted level, to support 
a multi-disciplinary service-delivery approach for individuals 
with severe functional impairments associated with a serious 
mental illness.
    Interagency Task Force on Trauma Informed Care.--The 
Committee provides $2,000,000, for the Interagency Task Force 
on Trauma-Informed Care, which is the same as the fiscal year 
2026 enacted level. The Committee supports continued operations 
and implementation of the National Strategy for Trauma-Informed 
Care Operation Plan. The Committee requests an update in the 
fiscal year 2028 congressional justification on the 
implementation of the Operating Plan, including specific 
milestones achieved, cross-agency coordination efforts, and 
measurable impacts on trauma-affected populations.

Science and Service:

    Garrett Lee Smith Suicide Prevention Resource Center.--The 
Committee provides $11,000,000 for the GLS Suicide Prevention 
Resource Center, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level, to build national capacity for preventing 
suicide by providing technical assistance, training, and 
resources to assist States, Tribes, private organizations, and 
SAMHSA grantees to develop suicide-prevention strategies. The 
Committee encourages SAMHSA to continue expanding training 
opportunities and public-private collaboration on youth suicide 
prevention and early intervention strategies.
    Practice Improvement and Training.--The Committee provides 
$7,828,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, to support the dissemination of key information, such as 
evidence-based mental health practices, to the mental health 
delivery system.
    Consumer and Consumer Support Technical Assistance 
Centers.--The Committee provides $1,918,000, which is the same 
as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level, to facilitate quality 
improvement of the mental health system by the specific 
promotion of consumer-directed approaches for adults with 
serious mental illness.
    Primary and Behavioral Health Care Integration Technical 
Assistance.--The Committee provides $3,991,000, which is the 
same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level, to provide 
technical assistance to Primary and Behavioral Health Care 
Integration grantees. The Committee instructs SAMHSA to 
continue following the directives outlined under this heading 
in the House Report 119-271 and Senate Report 119-55.
    Minority Fellowship Program.--The Committee provides 
$11,059,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, to increase behavioral health practitioners' knowledge 
of issues related to prevention, treatment, and recovery 
support for mental illness and addiction among minority 
populations.
    Disaster Response.--The Committee provides $1,953,000, 
which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level, to 
support the Disaster Technical Assistance Center to help 
States, Tribes, localities, and territories deliver an 
effective mental health and substance use-related response to 
disasters.
    Eating Disorders.--The Committee provides $4,000,000, an 
increase of $2,000,000 above the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, for the National Center of Excellence for Eating 
Disorders. Funding will support increased engagement with 
primary care providers, including pediatricians, to provide 
specialized advice and consultation on screening and treatment 
for eating disorders. The Committee supports work on pediatric 
training models for prevention, early intervention, treatment, 
and ongoing support protocols for youth with, or at-risk of 
developing, an eating disorder. The Committee directs SAMHSA to 
devote sufficient resources to a competitive grant process to 
support the National Center of Excellence, as authorized in 
section 1131 of Public Law 117-328. The Committee further 
directs SAMHSA to provide an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification detailing actions taken to support 
the Center of Excellence in advancing education, training, and 
awareness of eating disorders.

                       SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $4,172,298,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       490,202,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     4,150,917,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -21,381,000
    Change from budget request........................    +3,660,715,000
 

State Opioid Response Grants

    The Committee includes $1,600,000,000 for State Opioid 
Response (SOR) grants, an increase of $5,000,000 above the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level. The Committee supports efforts 
from SAMHSA through SOR grants to expand access to substance 
use disorder treatments in rural and underserved communities, 
including through funding and technical assistance. Within the 
amount provided, the Committee includes a set-aside of not less 
than 4.5 percent for Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations.
    The Committee continues to support the continuum of 
prevention, treatment, and recovery support services within SOR 
for individuals with opioid or stimulant use disorder including 
co-occurring addictions such as alcohol addiction. The 
Committee encourages SAMHSA to increase awareness of grantees 
regarding the availability of SOR funding to support treatment 
and support for co-occurring additions, including alcohol use 
disorder.
    Data Collection and Sharing Information.--The Committee 
instructs SAMHSA to complete the directives outlined under this 
heading in the House Report 119-271.
    FDA Approved Medications.--SAMHSA is directed to include as 
an allowable use of funds all FDA-approved medications for 
opioid use disorder, overdose reversal, and other clinically 
appropriate services to treat opioid use disorder. The 
Committee encourages SAMHSA to issue guidance to grantees 
clarifying that funds may be used to procure long-acting 
injectable formulations of buprenorphine and that no grantee 
policy should exclude any FDA-approved medication or 
formulation for treating opioid use disorder.

Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Services 
        Block Grant

    The Committee includes $2,039,079,000 for the Substance Use 
Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Services (SUPTRS) Block 
Grant, which is a $26,000,000 increase above the fiscal year 
2026 enacted level. Of the funds provided, $79,200,000 shall be 
derived from evaluation set aside funds available under section 
241 of the PHS Act. The SUPTRS Block Grant is a critical 
component of each State's publicly funded substance use 
disorder system designed to address all substance use 
disorders--including those related to alcohol. SUPTRS Block 
Grant funds may support initiatives related to alcohol in 
settings such as emergency rooms and primary care offices. In 
addition, States utilize SUPTRS Block Grant funds to support 
alcohol use disorder treatment services in outpatient, 
intensive outpatient, and residential programs. Further, the 
Committee is also aware that SUPTRS Block Grant funds may be 
allocated to support medications for the treatment of alcohol 
use disorders, an important tool that should be available to 
those in need. The Committee also understands SUPTRS Block 
Grant funds are utilized by States to support recovery 
community organizations to provide recovery support for those 
with alcohol use disorders.
    The Committee recognizes the critical role the block grant 
plays in State and Territory systems across the country, giving 
States and Territories the flexibility to direct resources to 
address the most pressing needs of their communities. The 
Committee also recognizes that the 20 percent prevention set 
aside within the SUPTRS Block Grant is a vital source of 
funding for primary prevention.
    Opioid Use Disorder in Rural Communities.--The Committee is 
aware that responding to the opioid use disorder crisis 
continues to pose unique challenges for rural America. Rural 
areas can struggle with limited access to care, and there is a 
shortage of health professionals needed to identify, diagnose, 
and treat patients with substance use disorders, as well as to 
assist individuals in recovery. As a result, addressing the 
opioid crisis in rural America requires a comprehensive 
approach, which may involve integrated models of care; 
collaboration, when appropriate, with patients and their 
families; involvement of community partners and institutions; 
enhanced competency and skills development for health care 
providers treating people with substance use disorders; 
training to provide care in a culturally responsive manner; and 
the use of technology to improve access in medically 
underserved areas through telehealth and the expansion of 
treatment programs where feasible. The Committee continues to 
encourage SAMHSA, in coordination with relevant Federal, State, 
local, and Tribal partners, to support initiatives to advance 
opioid use disorder objectives in rural, medically underserved, 
and Tribal communities, and other programs that emphasize a 
comprehensive community-based approach involving academic 
institutions, health care providers, and local criminal justice 
systems.
    Opioid Use Disorder Relapse and Overdose Prevention.--The 
Committee is concerned that relapse following opioid 
detoxification is a contributing factor to the overdose crisis. 
The Committee notes SAMHSA's efforts to address this within the 
Federal grant population by emphasizing that opioid 
detoxification should be followed by proper treatment and long-
term recovery services. The Committee encourages SAMHSA to 
continue these programs in all settings where detoxification is 
offered, including opioid treatment programs, rehabilitation 
centers, and criminal justice settings.
    Prevention Activities.--The SUPTRS Block Grant's prevention 
set aside requires States to allocate at least 20 percent of 
Block Grant funds to primary prevention. States may use these 
prevention set aside funds to support initiatives aimed at 
addressing underage drinking. Such efforts can reduce access to 
alcohol, reduce risk factors, and increase protective factors.
    Preventing Prescription Drug and Opioid Overdoses.--The 
Committee notes strong concerns about the increasing number of 
unintentional overdose deaths attributable to prescription and 
nonprescription opioids. SAMHSA is urged to take steps to 
support the use of SUPTRS Block Grant funds for opioid safety 
education and training, including initiatives that improve 
access for licensed healthcare professionals, including 
paramedics, to emergency devices used to rapidly reverse the 
effects of opioid overdoses. Such initiatives should 
incorporate robust evidence-based intervention training and 
facilitate linkage to treatment and recovery services.
    Within the total provided for Programs of Regional and 
National Significance, the Committee recommends the following 
amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              FY 2026         FY 2027
             Budget Activity                  Enacted        Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Capacity:
    Opioid Treatment Programs and            $10,724,000     $10,724,000
     Regulatory Activities..............
    Screening, Brief Intervention,            26,840,000      26,840,000
     Referral to Treatment (SBIRT)......
    Screening, Brief Intervention, and         2,000,000       2,000,000
     Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) PHS
     Evaluation Funds...................
    Targeted Capacity Expansion-General.     125,416,000     129,916,000
        Medication-Assisted Treatment        114,000,000     118,500,000
         (non-add)......................
        Tribal Set-Aside (non-add)......      15,500,000      20,000,000
    Grants to Prevent Prescription Drug/      16,000,000      16,000,000
     Opioid Overdose....................
    First Responder Training............      59,000,000      60,000,000
        Rural Focus (non-add)...........      34,000,000      35,000,000
        SIREN Act (non-add).............      13,500,000      13,500,000
    Pregnant and Postpartum Women.......      38,931,000      40,931,000
    Recovery Community Services Program.       4,434,000       4,434,000
    Children and Families...............      30,197,000      30,197,000
    Treatment Systems for the Homeless..      37,114,000      39,114,000
    Minority AIDS.......................      66,881,000           - - -
    Criminal Justice Activities.........      80,000,000      80,000,000
        Drug Courts (non-add)...........      75,000,000      75,000,000
    Improving Access to Overdose               1,500,000       1,500,000
     Treatment..........................
    Building Communities of Recovery....      17,000,000      17,000,000
    Peer Support Technical Assistance          2,000,000       2,000,000
     Center.............................
    Comprehensive Opioid Recovery              7,000,000      10,000,000
     Centers............................
    Emergency Department Alternatives to       8,000,000       8,000,000
     Opioids............................
    Treatment, Recovery, and Workforce        12,000,000      14,000,000
     Support............................
    Youth Prevention and Recovery              3,000,000       3,000,000
     Initiative.........................
Science and Service:
    Addiction Technology Transfer              9,046,000       9,046,000
     Centers............................
    Minority Fellowship Program.........       7,136,000       7,136,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Eligible Grantees.--The Committee directs the Secretary to 
expand eligibility for grants under SAMHSA Prevention Programs 
of Regional and National Significance and the corresponding 
services provided by the Center for the Application of 
Prevention Technologies to private, nonprofit, and regional 
organizations, including faith-based organizations. The broad 
coalitions orchestrated by these regional organizations are 
uniquely positioned to supplement the work already being done 
by the State, Tribal, and community organizations currently 
eligible for such grants.

Capacity:

    Opioid Treatment Programs and Regulatory Activities.--The 
Committee provides $10,724,000, which is the same as the fiscal 
year 2026 enacted level, to support access to FDA approved 
medications for opioid use disorder through opioid treatment 
programs and to approve organizations that accredit opioid 
treatment programs.
    Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment 
(SBIRT).--The Committee provides $28,840,000 for the SBIRT 
program, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level. The SBIRT program identifies individuals who misuse 
substances and provides education, brief intervention, or 
referrals to specialty treatment as necessary through grants to 
States, Tribes, health departments, colleges and universities, 
and other non-profit organizations.
    Targeted Capacity Expansion.--The Committee provides 
$129,916,000 for the Targeted Capacity Expansion program 
including the Medication-Assisted Treatment for Prescription 
Drug and Opioid Addiction program (MAT-PDOA), an increase of 
$4,500,000 above the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. These 
programs support State and local governments, Tribes, nonprofit 
organizations, and health facilities respond to treatment and 
capacity gaps for purposes of providing services to individuals 
with opioid use disorder. MAT-PDOA provides access to FDA 
approved medications for opioid use disorders to reduce opioid 
use and related deaths. The Committee directs SAMHSA to support 
nonprofit treatment facilities engaged in community enhancement 
projects to improve the provision of services to rural 
communities in surrounding regions. Better access to care 
mitigates community safety risks while expanding treatment 
services and recovery support programs for patients and their 
families. The Committee further directs SAMHSA to include all 
FDA-approved medications for opioid use disorder as an 
allowable use to achieve and maintain remission and recovery.
    The Committee urges SAMHSA to permit the use of funds 
provided under MAT-PDOA to develop, replicate, and evaluate 
state models for uninsured individuals that incorporate FDA-
approved long-acting injectable medications for serious mental 
illness, alcoholism, and opioid dependence. The Committee 
expects SAMHSA to emphasize continuity of care across all 
clinical settings, including hospitals, corrections, post-
release, and community supervision, and to prioritize 
voluntarily, clinically appropriate, and patient-centered 
treatment. The Committee further encourages SAMHSA to assess 
outcomes associated with these models and disseminate findings 
to inform replication by States and regions.
    Grants to Prevent Prescription Drug/Opioid Overdose.--The 
Committee provides $16,000,000 for Grants to Prevent 
Prescription Drug/Opioid Overdose Deaths (PDO), which is the 
same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. The PDO program 
trains first responders and other community providers on the 
prevention of prescription drug/opioid overdose-related deaths 
including through the purchase and distribution of naloxone. 
The Committee notes that while fatal opioid overdose rates 
among young Americans have decreased, the issue remains a 
serious public health threat. Studies show that access to 
opioid overdose reversal agents such as naloxone reduces 
overdose deaths, therefore, the Committee encourages SAMHSA to 
provide schools access to and administration training for 
naloxone and other effective drug reversal agents.
    First Responder Training.--The Committee provides 
$60,000,000 for First Responder Training program, an overall 
increase of $1,000,000 above fiscal year 2026 enacted level. Of 
this amount, $35,000,000 is provided for rural communities with 
high rates of substance abuse, an increase of $1,000,000 above 
the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    The Committee continues to provide a $13,500,000 set-aside 
within the Rural Focus amount to make awards to rural public 
and nonprofit fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) 
agencies as authorized in the Supporting and Improving Rural 
EMS Needs Reauthorization Act (P.L. 118-84) and directs SAMHSA 
to follow the directives included in Senate Report 119-55.
    Pregnant and Postpartum Women.--The Committee provides 
$40,931,000 for the Pregnant and Postpartum Women program, an 
increase of $2,000,000 above the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level. The Pregnant and Postpartum Women program supports 
comprehensive residential substance use disorder treatment, 
prevention, and recovery support services for pregnant and 
postpartum women, their minor children, and other family 
members.
    Recovery Community Services Program.--The Committee 
provides $4,434,000 for the Recovery Community Services 
Program, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level. This program provides grants to develop, expand, and 
enhance community and statewide recovery support services.
    Children and Families Program.--The Committee provides 
$30,197,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, to support early identification and services to 
children, adolescents, and young adults at risk of substance 
use disorders, and treatment for such populations with co-
occurring mental illnesses.
    Drug Courts.--The Committee provides $80,000,000 for 
SAMSHA's Drug Court initiative, which is the same as the fiscal 
year 2026 enacted level. The Committee continues to direct 
SAMHSA to ensure that all funding appropriated for drug 
treatment courts is allocated to serve people diagnosed with a 
substance use disorder as their primary condition. The 
Committee directs SAMHSA to ensure that all drug treatment 
court grant recipients work directly with the corresponding 
State substance use agency in the planning, implementation, and 
evaluation of the grant. The Committee further directs SAMHSA 
to expand training and technical assistance to drug treatment 
court grant recipients to ensure evidence-based practices are 
fully implemented.
    Improving Access to Opioid Treatment.--The Committee 
provides $1,500,000, which is the same as fiscal year 2026 
enacted level, to support awards to expand access to FDA 
approved drugs or devices for emergency treatment of known or 
suspected opioid overdose.
    Building Communities of Recovery.--The Committee provides 
$17,000,000 for the Building Communities of Recovery program, 
which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. This 
program enables the development, expansion, and enhancement of 
recovery community organizations.
    Peer Support Technical Assistance Center.--The Committee 
provides $2,000,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level, to provide technical assistance to recovery 
community organizations and peer support networks.
    Comprehensive Opioid Recovery Centers.--The Committee 
provides $10,000,000 for Comprehensive Opioid Recovery Centers, 
an increase of $3,000,000 above the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level. This program provides grants to entities that operate 
comprehensive treatment and recovery centers for individuals 
with opioid use disorder.
    Emergency Department Alternatives to Opioids.--The 
Committee provides $8,000,000 for the Emergency Department 
Alternatives to Opioids program, which is the same as the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level. This program provides funding 
to hospitals and emergency departments to develop and implement 
alternative pain management protocols and treatments that limit 
the prescribing of opioids in emergency departments.
    Treatment, Recovery, and Workforce Support.--The Committee 
provides $14,000,000 for the Treatment, Recovery, and Workforce 
Support program, an increase of $2,000,000 above the fiscal 
year 2026 enacted level. This program supports individuals in 
substance use disorder treatment and recovery to live 
independently and participate in the workforce.
    Youth Prevention and Recovery Initiative.--The Committee 
provides $3,000,000 for the Youth Prevention and Recovery 
Initiative, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, to support early identification and services to 
children, adolescents, and young adults at risk of substance 
use disorders, and treatment for such populations including 
those with co-occurring mental illnesses.

Science and Services:

    Minority Fellowship Program.--The Committee provides 
$7,136,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 program 
level, to increase behavioral health practitioners' knowledge 
of issues related to prevention, treatment, and recovery 
support for mental illness and addiction among minority 
populations.
    Substance Use Disorder Treatment.--The Committee encourages 
SAMHSA to expand the availability of treatment services 
tailored to adolescents, pregnant women, and parents.

                       SUBSTANCE ABUSE PREVENTION

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $240,879,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        18,704,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       204,009,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -36,870,000
    Change from budget request........................      +185,305,000
 

    Within the total provided for Programs of Regional and 
National Significance, the Committee provides the following 
amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Capacity:
    Strategic Prevention Framework       $137,484,000       $137,484,000
        Strategic Prevention               10,000,000              - - -
         Framework Rx (non-add)...
    Federal Drug-Free Workplace...          5,139,000          7,139,000
    Minority AIDS.................         43,205,000              - - -
    Sober Truth on Preventing              14,500,000         14,500,000
     Underage Drinking (STOP Act).
        National Adult-Oriented             2,500,000          2,500,000
         Media Public Services
         Campaign.................
        Community Based Coalition          11,000,000         11,000,000
         Enhancement Grants.......
        Interagency Coordinating            1,000,000          1,000,000
         Committee to Prevent
         Underage Drinking........
    Tribal Behavioral Health               25,665,000         30,000,000
     Grants.......................
Science and Service:
    Center for the Application of           9,493,000          9,493,000
     Prevention Technologies......
    Science and Service Program             4,072,000          4,072,000
     Coordination.................
    Minority Fellowship Program...          1,321,000          1,321,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Capacity:

    Drug Free Communities.--The Committee notes that the 
Department continues to propose to transfer the Drug-Free 
Communities (DFC) from ONDCP to the Administration for a 
Healthy America. DFC supports community-based coalitions that 
engage multiple sectors of the community to prevent youth 
substance use. The Committee again looks forward to working 
with the authorizing committees of jurisdiction as they 
consider this proposal.
    Strategic Prevention Framework.--The Committee provides 
$137,484,000 for the Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF), 
which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. SPF 
provides grants to States, Tribes, and local governmental 
organizations to prevent substance misuse. The Committee 
provides no funding for SPF Rx in recognition of the 
continually evolving nature of substance addiction and abuse. 
The Committee strongly believes that investing in prevention is 
essential to ending the substance abuse crisis, and supports 
the core SPF program, which is designed to prevent the onset of 
substance misuse, while strengthening prevention capacity and 
infrastructure. The Committee intends that this program 
supports comprehensive, multi-sector substance use prevention 
strategies to stop or delay the age of initiation of each State 
or local applicant's most pressing substance use issues, as 
determined by the State and/or local epidemiological data.
    Federal Drug Free Workplace.--The Committee provides 
$7,139,000 for Federal Drug-Free Workplace Programs (DFWP), an 
increase of $2,000,000 above the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level. The illicit drug market and patterns of drug use in the 
United States, including among the American workforce, continue 
to evolve with the proliferation of new psychoactive and 
synthetic substances. DFWP is the gold-standard drug deterrence 
program for Federal employees and regulated industries. It 
ensures that employees in national security, public health, and 
public safety positions are tested for illegal drug use and the 
misuse of prescription drugs, and that laboratories conducting 
this regulated testing are certified and inspected by the 
Department. The Committee directs SAMHSA to use these funds to 
remain at the forefront of forensic and toxicological science, 
implement new testing modalities such as oral fluid and hair 
testing, and expand the number of certified laboratories.
    Sober Truth on Preventing Underage Drinking Act.--The 
Committee provides $14,500,000 for the Sober Truth on 
Preventing Underage Drinking (STOP) Act, which is the same as 
the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. The STOP Act supports an 
adult-oriented national media campaign to provide parents and 
caregivers of youth under the age of 21 with information and 
resources to discuss the issue of alcohol with their children 
and provides grants to prevent and reduce alcohol use among 
youth under the age of 21.
    This program also supports the Interagency Coordinating 
Committee on the Prevention of Underage Drinking (ICCPUD). The 
Committee directs that ICCPUD funding be used only for the 
purpose of preventing or reducing underage drinking, and not 
for any other purpose outside its authorization, as specified 
in Public Law 109-422.
    Tribal Behavioral Grants.--The Committee provides 
$30,000,000, which is a $4,335,000 increase above the fiscal 
year 2026 enacted level, to address the high incidence of 
substance misuse and suicide among the AI/AN population. 
Despite the recent national decline in drug overdose deaths, 
Tribal communities continue to experience disproportionately 
higher rates of illicit drug use, opioid misuse, misuse of 
prescription drugs, and fatal and non-fatal drug overdoses. The 
AI/AN population is also at higher risk of dying by suicide 
compared to the general U.S. population.
    Fentanyl and Prescription Drug Misuse Prevention.--The 
Committee supports efforts to better educate the public and 
increase awareness about the potential lethality of fentanyl 
and polysubstance and other prescription drug misuses.

Science and Service:

    Center for the Application of Prevention Technologies.--The 
Committee provides $9,493,000 for the Center for the 
Application of Prevention Technologies, which is the same as 
the fiscal year 2026 enacted level, to improve implementation 
and delivery of effective substance use prevention 
interventions and provide training and technical assistance 
services to the substance use prevention field. The Committee 
recognizes the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention and the 
Prevention Technology Transfer Centers for their work in 
implementing the Prevention Fellowship Program. This program 
supports early career prevention fellows in gaining hands on 
experience working in State alcohol and drug agencies. Fellows, 
coached by mentors, developed leadership skills; received 
training in professional development; acquired proficiency in 
core competencies to prepare for certified prevention 
specialist exams; and prepared for employment opportunities in 
the substance use prevention field. The Committee continues its 
directive under this heading in the explanatory statement that 
accompanied Division B of P.L. 119-75.
    Science and Service Activities.--The Committee provides 
$4,072,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, to support the adoption and use of effective substance 
use disorder prevention strategies across the continuum of 
care, with a special focus on health systems. The program also 
supports the Tribal Training and Technical Assistance Center, 
which provides specialized training and assistance to improve 
Tribal behavioral health outcomes.
    Minority Fellowship Program.--The Committee provides 
$1,321,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2025 enacted 
level, to provide stipends to increase the number of SUD and 
mental health professionals who teach, administer, conduct 
services research, and provide direct mental health or 
substance use disorder treatment services for minority 
populations. The Committee directs SAMHSA to ensure that Center 
for Substance Abuse Prevention funded fellowships focus on 
substance use disorder prevention related activities.

                HEALTH SURVEILLANCE AND PROGRAM SUPPORT

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $202,994,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        65,823,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       148,683,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -54,311,000
    Change from budget request........................       +82,860,000
 

    The Committee provides the following amounts for Health 
Surveillance and Program Support:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              FY 2026         FY 2027
             Budget Activity                  Enacted        Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Health Surveillance.....................     $50,623,000     $50,623,000
    PHS Evaluation Funds (non-add)......      30,428,000      30,428,000
Program Support.........................      63,600,000      63,600,000
Public Awareness and Support............      13,260,000      13,260,000
Performance and Quality Information           10,200,000      10,200,000
 Systems................................
Drug Abuse Warning Network..............      10,000,000      10,000,000
Behavioral Health Workforce.............       1,000,000       1,000,000
    PHS Evaluation Funds................       1,000,000       1,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    National Online Treatment Services Locator.--The Committee 
instructs SAMHSA to complete the directives outlined under this 
heading in the House Report 119-271.

               Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality


                    HEALTHCARE RESEARCH AND QUALITY

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $345,380,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................             - - -
Committee Recommendation..............................             - - -
    Change from enacted level.........................      -345,380,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Committee provides no funding for the Agency for 
Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). Similar work is done by 
several agencies funded in this bill, including the National 
Institutes of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and 
Prevention, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services 
Administration, and the Office of the Assistant Secretary for 
Health.

                Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services


                     GRANTS TO STATES FOR MEDICAID

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026................         $508,148,791,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027...............          468,678,021,000
Committee Recommendation.......................          468,678,021,000
    Change from enacted level..................          -39,470,770,000
    Change from budget request.................                    - - -
 

    Medicaid provides health coverage to eligible populations, 
including eligible low-income adults, children, pregnant women, 
elderly adults, and people with disabilities. Medicaid is 
administered by States, according to Federal requirements. The 
program is funded jointly by States and the Federal government.
    This amount does not include $316,514,725,000, which was 
provided as advance funding for the first quarter of fiscal 
year 2027. In addition, the Committee recommends an advance 
appropriation of $321,205,275,000 for program costs in the 
first quarter of fiscal year 2028, to remain available until 
expended.
    The Committee continues bill language providing indefinite 
budget authority for unanticipated costs in fiscal year 2027. 
Federal Medicaid grants reimburse States for a portion of their 
expenditures in providing health care for individuals whose 
income and resources fall below specified levels. Subject to 
certain minimum requirements, States are provided certain 
limited authority within the law to set eligibility, coverage, 
and payment levels.

                PAYMENTS TO THE HEALTH CARE TRUST FUNDS

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026................         $593,817,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027...............          686,855,000,000
Committee Recommendation.......................          686,855,000,000
    Change from enacted level..................          +93,038,000,000
    Change from budget request.................                    - - -
 

    This account includes the general fund subsidy to the 
Federal Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund for Medicare 
Part B benefits, and Medicare drug benefits and administration, 
as well as other reimbursements to the Federal Hospital 
Insurance Trust Fund for benefits and related administrative 
costs, which have not been financed by payroll taxes or premium 
contributions. The Committee continues bill language providing 
indefinite authority to pay the general revenue portion of the 
Medicare Part B premium match and resources for the Medicare 
Part D drug benefit program if the annual appropriation is 
insufficient.

                           PROGRAM MANAGEMENT

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $3,669,744,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     3,700,493,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     3,669,744,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................       -30,749,000
 

    CMS program management includes funding for program 
operations, survey and certification programs, and Federal 
administration. Within the total provided for program 
management, the Committee includes up to $4,500,000 for the 
Office of Legislation. The Committee notes that HHS proposes to 
administer the Office of Pharmacy Affairs within CMS rather 
than HRSA. The Committee looks forward to working with the 
authorizing committees of jurisdiction as they consider the 
Department's proposal.

Program Operations

    The Committee includes $2,479,823,000 for Program 
Operations, which is equal to the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level. This account supports a broad range of activities to 
administer CMS programs, fund beneficiary outreach and 
education, maintain information technology infrastructure 
needed to support various claims processing systems, and 
support other programmatic improvements.
    Access to Non-Opioid Pain Medication.--The Committee 
recognizes the importance of ensuring access to safe and 
effective pain management medications and remains concerned 
about the continued impact of opioid misuse and dependency. As 
part of the broader strategy to address the opioid crisis, the 
Committee supports efforts by CMS to encourage the utilization 
of non-opioid pain medications for the treatment of acute and 
chronic pain, where clinically appropriate. The Committee urges 
CMS to work with Medicare Part D plan sponsors and other 
stakeholders to increase beneficiary education and access to 
non-opioid pain medications and to ensure that benefit design 
policies do not create unintended barriers to their use.
    Acute Hospital Care at Home.--The Committee recognizes the 
success of the Acute Hospital Care at Home Waiver 
Flexibilities, which were extended to September 30, 2030, under 
the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 (P.L. 119-75). The 
Consolidated Appropriations Act also directed the Secretary to 
conduct a study to determine the types of patients that should 
be eligible for hospital care at home. As part of this 
evaluation, the Committee encourages the Secretary to consider 
whether observation status patients would benefit from hospital 
care at home.
    Addressing Fraud and Abuse in Electrodiagnostic (EDX) 
Medicine.--The Committee is concerned about poor, excessive, 
and sometimes fraudulent EDX testing, including nerve 
conduction studies and needle electromyography, particularly 
due to the proliferation of mobile labs, unqualified providers, 
and improper testing procedures. Despite a 2014 HHS OIG report 
titled, ``Questionable Billing for Medicare Electrodiagnostic 
Tests'', enforcement of existing requirements still appears 
inadequate. Both the CPT code book and existing Medicare 
regulations require EDX testing to be performed onsite, in real 
time, and by a qualified provider; however, the Committee is 
concerned by reports that these standards are not always 
followed and rarely enforced. To address this, HHS and CMS are 
encouraged to collaborate with professional and patient 
stakeholders to ensure that ``qualified provider'' is clearly 
defined to include only those with proper professional 
training. Additionally, the Committee encourages HHS and CMS to 
strengthen enforcement mechanisms to address poor testing and 
inaccurate billing, ultimately preventing testing by 
unqualified providers who cannot appropriately perform, 
interpret, and guide studies onsite and in real time. Further 
steps are necessary to protect patients and healthcare 
resources through proper enforcement of current standards.
    Addressing Post-Mastectomy Pain and Sensation Loss.--Nearly 
80 percent of women experience pain or numbness after breast 
cancer surgery, creating functional impairment and safety 
risks. The Committee notes that modern reconstructive 
techniques can restore not only appearance but also critical 
functions such as breast sensation. Sensory nerve 
reconstruction can reduce post-mastectomy pain syndrome, 
improve safety, and enhance quality of life. The Committee 
requests a report within 180 days of enactment of this Act on 
insurance coverage of nerve reconstruction after mastectomy.
    Application of Plasma-Derived Product Exclusion.--Congress 
expressly excluded all biological products derived from human 
whole blood or plasma from the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation 
Program established under section 1192 of the Inflation 
Reduction Act. See 42 U.S.C. 1320f-1(e)(3)(C) (the ``Plasma-
Derived Product Exclusion''). The Committee notes that plasma-
derived components of biological products originate from human 
plasma and therefore are immune-compatible and can deliver 
therapeutic benefits across a variety of medical treatments. 
These therapies are uniquely susceptible to supply-chain 
vulnerabilities caused by fluctuation in donor supply. They are 
also subject to unique manufacturing challenges and strict 
regulatory requirements intended to ensure safe and responsible 
handling. Products with plasma-derived components are excluded 
from the Drug Price Negotiation Program to avoid undermining 
future research and development. These policy considerations 
apply equally to all products that include a plasma-derived 
component. The Committee encourages CMS to take these factors 
into full consideration in carrying out the Drug Price 
Negotiation Program.
    Area Wage Index.--The Committee remains concerned about the 
significant disparities in Medicare reimbursement created by 
the current hospital wage index system. These disparities 
continue to create substantial financial and operational 
disadvantages for hospitals located in historically low wage 
index markets, particularly rural and underserved communities 
that depend on such providers for access to care. The Committee 
notes that hospitals in the lowest quartile of wage indexes 
often operate in close geographic proximity to substantially 
higher wage index labor markets but remain unable to access 
comparable reimbursement due to existing geographic 
reclassification limitations and technical eligibility 
requirements. The Committee believes these disparities 
undermine workforce recruitment and retention, threaten access 
to essential hospital services, and exacerbate inequities in 
Medicare reimbursement. Accordingly, the Committee strongly 
urges the Secretary to leverage existing authorities to 
establish and implement a wage index reclassification mechanism 
for hospitals in the lowest quartile of wage indexes that would 
permit qualifying hospitals to redesignate to geographically 
proximate labor markets with higher applicable wage indexes. 
The Committee further urges the Secretary to provide 
flexibility with respect to mileage requirements, average 
hourly wage comparison requirements, and other technical 
redesignation criteria that may disproportionately disadvantage 
low wage index hospitals. The Committee supports allowing 
qualifying low wage index hospitals to receive the higher of 
the applicable pre-reclassified wage index or rural floor wage 
index associated with the redesignated area while excluding 
such hospitals' wage data from calculations that would 
otherwise dilute the wage index or rural floor of the 
redesignated market to the maximum extent permitted under 
existing authorities. The Committee strongly urges the 
Secretary to consider regulatory revisions consistent with 
these principles in future rulemaking and directs CMS to 
provide an update to the Committee not later than 180 days 
after enactment of this Act regarding administrative options 
available to implement such a redesignation pathway.
    Artificial Intelligence to Improve Patient Care.--The 
Committee notes the potential for AI to enhance the clinical 
capabilities of providers and improve patient care and 
outcomes. The FDA has cleared or approved AI-enabled medical 
devices that operate as a decision support system to provide 
meaningful clinical improvement to health care delivery. For 
example, algorithm-based healthcare services (ABHS), a unique 
and important subset of the AI-enabled devices the FDA has 
authorized, provide otherwise unavailable clinical information. 
CMS has acknowledged the importance of AI-enabled technologies, 
requesting feedback on the criteria they should adopt in making 
payment decisions. The Committee supports CMS' continued work 
in this area, and encourages CMS to leverage the feedback it 
has received over many years and consider policies in the 
upcoming proposed Medicare payment rules that would provide 
clear, targeted criteria to Medicare participating providers 
and medical technology innovators regarding the reimbursement 
pathway for FDA authorized AI/ML-enabled medical devices, 
including ABHS technologies.
    Autologous Breast Reconstruction Coverage.--Breast or chest 
wall reconstruction has evolved significantly in the nearly 25 
years since the passage of the Women's Health and Cancer Rights 
Act. The Committee requests that CMS include in the fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification an analysis of existing 
policies regarding autologous reconstruction options, including 
an examination of geographic trends in reimbursement and access 
to perforator flap breast reconstruction.
    Behavioral Health Efficiency and Effectiveness 
Initiative.--The Committee is concerned by the disproportionate 
Medicaid expenditures associated with a small subset of 
beneficiaries who experience repeated emergency department 
utilization and psychiatric hospitalizations, often driven by 
unmet behavioral health and social needs. The Secretary is 
encouraged to establish or expand demonstration initiatives 
that facilitate real-time referral pathways from hospitals, 
emergency departments, and Medicaid managed care organizations 
to community-based stabilization teams; prioritize individuals 
with three or more emergency department visits or psychiatric 
admissions within a six-month period; and integrate peer 
support specialists, care coordinators, and community health 
workers to provide wraparound stabilization services. The 
Committee encourages participating entities to track reductions 
in emergency department utilization, psychiatric readmissions, 
and total cost of care, while improving patient engagement, 
housing stability, and continuity with primary and behavioral 
health providers.
    Cancer Survivorship Alternative Payment Model.--The 
Oncology Care Model ended in 2022 after a five-year test, and 
the successor Enhancing Oncology Model was launched in 2023. 
The trigger for an episode of care in these models is the 
initiation of cancer drug therapy. However, these delivery 
experiments exclude a population of cancer patients who might 
benefit from the patient-centered care offered in care models, 
such as cancer survivors who have completed active treatment 
and are entering a period of long-term survivorship. The 
Committee encourages CMS to consider appropriate options for 
survivors.
    Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs).--The 
Committee is aware of challenges surrounding patient access to 
anesthesia services, particularly in rural areas. Therefore, 
the Committee supports CMS in its continued consideration of 
the benefits of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists 
performing services.
    Chief Dental Officer.--The Committee acknowledges the 
significance of oral health representation within CMS and has 
supported the position of Chief Dental Officer (CDO) within the 
CMS Administrator's Office. This role ensures oral health 
issues remain a central focus in CMS policymaking and 
operations, enhancing coordination between CMS programs and the 
broader healthcare system. By embedding dental expertise at the 
highest levels of CMS decision-making, the profession is 
positioned to meet the evolving demands of healthcare delivery, 
regulatory compliance, and patient care. The Committee commends 
CMS for recognizing the essential role of oral health in 
overall health and urges this commitment to continue, with the 
CDO position being well-resourced and playing an integral part 
in shaping policies that prioritize access to oral healthcare 
and improved health outcomes.
    Childhood Cancer Survivorship Transition.--The Committee 
encourages CMS to collect Medicaid claims data from States on 
childhood and young adult cancer beneficiaries receiving 
services to transition from pediatric to adult care, 
utilization of services that support transitions of care, and 
receipt of an individualized transition of care plan. The 
Committee requests an update on this topic in the 2028 
congressional justification.
    Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).--The Committee is committed 
to ensuring that patients with CKD have access to the most 
clinically appropriate treatments. More effective diagnosis and 
care can help reduce the rates of kidney failure and 
cardiovascular complications for patients and generate savings 
to the Federal government. Therefore, the Committee encourages 
CMS to work to ensure the Medicare benefit guidelines reflect 
the most recent clinical CKD guidelines and to increase access 
to early screening utilizing both estimated glomerular 
filtration rate (eGFR) and urine Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio 
(uACR) testing, diagnosis, and treatment for high-risk 
populations for CKD.
    Cognitive Screening and Diagnostic Tools.--The Committee 
notes the importance of early cognitive screening as a critical 
step in diagnosing a patient with Alzheimer's disease (AD), 
which is the most common cause of dementia, and recognizes the 
limited uptake among Medicare beneficiaries during the Medicare 
annual wellness visit (AWV). Additionally, the Committee notes 
that AD blood-based biomarker tests are a powerful, non-
invasive, and scalable tool for addressing the growing burden 
of dementia compared to traditional diagnostic methods but may 
not have clear and sustainable coverage pathways under 
Medicare. The Committee encourages CMS to explore coverage 
policies that would improve access to cognitive screening tools 
and AD blood-based biomarker tests under Medicare.
    Colorectal Cancer Screening Quality Measurement.--The 
Committee notes that colorectal cancer is the leading cause of 
cancer death among men and women under age 50 and the second 
leading cause of cancer death overall. Screening significantly 
reduces colorectal cancer mortality, and Medicare covers 
several innovative screening technologies. The Committee 
understands that quality measures developed by the National 
Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) are widely used in 
Medicare Advantage (MA), Medicaid, and the individual 
marketplace. Since these measures influence clinical practice 
through quality performance assessments or bonus payments, 
delays in updating measures to reflect recently FDA-approved 
and Medicare-covered screening technologies can limit adoption 
and create access gaps--for example between Medicare fee-for-
service and MA beneficiaries. The Committee urges CMS to 
leverage its existing authority and update colorectal cancer 
screening quality measures in a timely manner to align with 
Medicare coverage and ensure consistent access across Federal 
and commercial health programs.
    Competitive Bidding for Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) 
and Insulin Pumps.--The Committee recognizes the critical role 
of advanced technology in improving patient safety and health, 
particularly for people with diabetes. CGM systems and insulin 
pumps help people with diabetes prevent adverse events related 
to blood glucose levels, and the Committee notes that any 
disruption in access to these devices could have serious health 
consequences. The Committee is aware that CMS has finalized a 
rule that would reclassify these devices as ``items requiring 
frequent and substantial servicing'' and include them in the 
durable medical equipment competitive bidding program. CMS 
should ensure that Medicare coverage policies are consistent 
with current clinical standards of care while protecting 
against waste, fraud, and abuse. Therefore, the Committee 
directs CMS to report to the Committee within 180 days of 
enactment of this Act regarding the impact of the rule on 
patients' ability to access medically appropriate CGMs and 
insulin pumps, and recommendations for other ways to address 
waste, fraud, and abuse related to diabetes technology.
    Competitive Bidding for Ostomy, Tracheostomy, and 
Urological Supplies.--The Committee notes concerns about CMS' 
decision to include ostomy, tracheostomy, and urological 
prosthetic supplies in the Medicare Competitive Bidding 
Program. These supplies have not been included in the program 
previously. The Committee is concerned that subjecting these 
supplies to competitive bidding without sufficient analysis 
could disrupt patient access, compromise clinician decision-
making, harm domestic manufacturing, and increase Medicare 
costs. Accordingly, the Committee urges caution on any attempt 
to impose requirements which could negatively impact the market 
for these products and result in limited patient access. The 
Committee requests an update on current rulemaking related to 
this topic in the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification.
    Connecting Caregivers to Medicare Information.--The 
Committee recognizes the financial and emotional strain that 
caregivers experience when caring for their elderly loved ones. 
In particular, the Committee acknowledges that caregivers face 
barriers to accessing health information from CMS about their 
loved ones who are Medicare beneficiaries in order to 
coordinate access to care on their behalf. The Committee 
encourages CMS to incorporate the real-world experiences of 
caregivers and to develop approaches that improve family 
caregivers' access to beneficiary information and resources to 
help their loved ones utilize their Medicare benefits. The 
Committee encourages CMS to publish a report on the barriers 
that caregivers face in obtaining essential Medicare 
beneficiary information and how the agency can update both 
existing and novel, technologically modern ways to deliver 
resources and information to caregivers.
    Consistency in Medicare Allergy Immunotherapy Coverage.--
Allergy immunotherapy is an important and effective treatment 
for patients with allergies. Allergy immunotherapy has been 
successfully used to help treat patients with environmental 
allergies for over 100 years by gradually exposing patients to 
increasingly potent amounts of allergen ``doses''' with 
subcutaneous injections, starting with a buildup phase and 
eventually reaching a maintenance level. The Committee notes 
that Medicare recently confirmed coverage of the buildup phase 
in addition to the maintenance phase of allergy immunotherapy. 
The Committee encourages CMS to adopt a definition of ``dose'' 
that is consistent with clinical parameters and common practice 
for every procedure code related to allergy immunotherapy 
preparation and administration.
    Convenient Access Standards.--The Committee is concerned 
that existing convenient access standards for Medicare Part D 
beneficiaries based on geographic distance do not take into 
account all methods of access to medications, including home 
delivery options. The Committee encourages CMS to consider 
appropriate updates to the existing network adequacy standards 
and to provide feedback, information, and technical assistance 
to Congress on policies that could improve patient access to 
drugs and pharmacist services, including potential changes to 
Part D network adequacy standards.
    Coverage Without Cost-sharing for Colorectal Cancer Bowel 
Preparations.--The Committee notes that existing Federal 
guidance recognizes medically appropriate bowel preparation 
prescribed in connection with a preventative screening 
colonoscopy as an integral part of the preventative service. 
The Committee encourages CMS to review and, as appropriate, 
update guidance to promote consistent implementation of 
existing law, while preserving reasonable medical management to 
control premium growth.
    Digital Services Modernization.--The Committee supports 
CMS's ongoing efforts to modernize and enhance both internal 
and external digital services in alignment with the 
requirements of the 21st Century Integrated Digital Experience 
Act (P.L. 115-336). The Committee notes that full 
implementation of 21st Century IDEA has the potential to 
strengthen CMS's ability to deliver critical health care 
services. The Committee supports the modernization and security 
of CMS's paper-based forms, ensuring they are cloud enabled, 
mobile responsive, Section 508 compliant, and expand the use of 
electronic signatures.
    Early-Stage Breast Cancer Testing to Inform Personalized 
Treatment.--The Committee notes that ductal carcinoma in situ 
(DCIS), non-invasive Stage 0 breast cancer, as well as stages I 
and IIA invasive breast cancer, comprise approximately 80 
percent of all breast cancer diagnoses. Among these early-stage 
breast cancer patients, 70 percent can be treated successfully 
with surgery alone. However, the majority of patients receive 
radiation therapy when only 15 percent will benefit. 
Unnecessary radiation exposure results in harmful side effects 
such as radiation fibrosis, secondary cancers, skin damage, and 
associated mental health risks, as well as wasted medical 
expenditures. Therefore, the Committee encourages CMS to 
explore coverage for breakthrough innovations approved by the 
FDA that are also recommended by medical societies or included 
in clinical cancer guidelines that inform clinicians on the 
need for radiation therapy following surgery by analyzing 
protein or RNA expression linked to breast cancer recurrence. 
The Committee directs CMS to provide a report to the Committee 
within 180 days of enactment of the Act on the status of 
coverage for innovations that provide personalized, predictive 
insights on the degree of benefit of radiation therapy, in 
post-surgical early-stage breast cancer care.
    Enabling Radiologist Assistant Care.--The Committee notes 
that radiologist assistants are advanced-level radiographers 
who are important members of the radiologist-led team. 
Radiologist assistants work strictly under the supervision of a 
radiologist to promote high standards of patient care by 
assisting radiologists in performing diagnostic and 
interventional image-guided radiology services, as permitted by 
State law. The Committee remains concerned about barriers to 
care provided by radiologist assistants within the Medicare 
program, leading to underutilization of these providers. As 
such, CMS should consider how it may remove barriers to care 
rendered by radiologist assistants to promote efficiency, 
improve patient outcomes, and ensure patient safety. The 
Committee encourages CMS to establish effective policies to 
enable patient access to radiologist assistant care under the 
supervision of a radiologist, as permitted by State law. In 
developing these policies, CMS should consult with 
stakeholders. Within 180 days of enactment of this Act, CMS 
shall provide a report to the Committee on specific actions it 
may take to remove existing barriers and develop and implement 
effective policies to enable radiologist assistant care under 
the supervision of a radiologist, as permitted by State law.
    Enforcement of Medicare's Six Protected Classes.--The 
Committee is aware that several statutory and regulatory 
changes to Medicare's coverage of prescription drugs are likely 
to coincide this year. The Committee recognizes that Part D 
redesign and direct price negotiations continue to shift 
incentives that impact plan behavior, and it will take time for 
Medicare Part D plans and MA plans to integrate all these 
changes. According to a recent survey, independent community 
oncologists are already seeing changes to utilization 
management practices by insurers and PBMs resulting in delayed 
cancer treatments, interference with treatment decisions 
between physicians and their patients, and an increasing burden 
on oncology practices and patients. CMS acknowledged in its 
Part D Benefit Manual that drugs subject to prior 
authorization, step therapy, or restrictive quantity limits may 
function as ``non-formulary'' with respect to patient access. 
The Committee supports the Administration's continued 
enforcement of protected classes and requests an update within 
60 days of enactment of this Act on actions the agency is 
taking to ensure Medicare beneficiaries who rely on the 
protected classes policy are not increasingly hindered in their 
access to all or substantially all treatment options.
    Enhanced Medicaid Program Integrity to Reduce Fraud, Waste, 
and Abuse.--The Committee is concerned by persistent program 
integrity vulnerabilities that allow erroneous, duplicative, 
and improper payments within the Medicaid program. In 2025, CMS 
identified approximately 2.8 million individuals simultaneously 
enrolled in both Medicaid and ACA Marketplace coverage, 
resulting in more than $25 billion annually in waste of 
taxpayer dollars. The Committee also notes a 2024 GAO report 
finding that nearly 25 percent of improper Medicaid payments 
stem from State noncompliance with provider enrollment and 
screening requirements. The Committee urges CMS to strengthen 
program integrity efforts through enhanced data matching, 
eligibility verification, and cross-program enrollment checks, 
including improved use of national data tools to identify dual 
enrollment and recover improper payments. CMS is further 
encouraged to expand tools that detect identity fraud and 
verify U.S. citizenship and State residency. Within 180 days of 
enactment of this Act, CMS shall submit a report to the 
Committee describing actions taken to reduce fraud, waste, and 
abuse, including improvements to eligibility verification, 
State compliance with enrollment safeguards, and deployment of 
enhanced data analytics and program integrity tools.
    Ensuring Patient Assistance Counts toward Out-of-Pocket 
Limits.--The Committee notes the decision in HIV & Hepatitis 
Policy Institute et al. v. U.S. Department of Health & Human 
Services, No. 1:22-cv-02604 (D.D.C. Sept. 29, 2023), regarding 
the treatment of manufacturer cost-sharing assistance under the 
annual limitation on cost sharing. The Committee encourages CMS 
to provide clear guidance to plans and issuers regarding 
compliance obligations related to cost-sharing assistance 
policies, including accumulator adjustment programs, consistent 
with applicable law and court decisions. The Committee further 
encourages CMS to engage stakeholders and coordinate with State 
regulators, as appropriate, to promote transparency for 
beneficiaries regarding the treatment of manufacturer cost-
sharing assistance.
    Expedited Access to Breakthrough Medical Devices.--The 
Committee is concerned that Medicare beneficiaries with serious 
and life-threatening conditions face significant delays in 
accessing FDA-designated breakthrough medical devices following 
market authorization. The Committee notes that devices 
receiving FDA breakthrough designation based on robust clinical 
data should have a defined, expedited pathway to Medicare 
coverage. The Committee urges CMS to initiate rulemaking to 
establish an expedited transitional coverage pathway for 
breakthrough-designated medical devices authorized for 
marketing including clinical data of Medicare beneficiaries, 
under which coverage would be available for a defined period 
following designation while a National Coverage Determination 
is completed. The Committee directs CMS to report to the 
Committees on Appropriations, Energy and Commerce, and Ways and 
Means of the House of Representatives, and the Committees on 
Appropriations and Finance of the Senate, within 180 days of 
enactment of this Act, on the timeline and status of any such 
rulemaking, including any barriers to implementation.
    Focused Ultrasound Reimbursement.--The Committee 
understands focused ultrasound is a noninvasive, non-
pharmacological, safe, and cost-effective alternative or 
complement to conventional surgery, radiation therapy, or drug-
based treatments. The FDA has cleared focused ultrasound for 
ten distinct clinical indications. However, the Committee 
understands that there can be a substantial lag between FDA 
authorization and payment for this technology. Therefore, the 
Committee directs CMS to evaluate payment policies for focused 
ultrasound technologies that are FDA-cleared. The evaluation 
shall assess existing coverage, coding and payment 
methodologies, and barriers to appropriate beneficiary access. 
Not later than 180 days after enactment of this Act, CMS shall 
provide a preliminary briefing to the Committee summarizing its 
findings and identifying potential administrative actions to 
improve reimbursement clarity and consistency with a report to 
follow.
    Gene Therapy Reimbursement.--The Committee is concerned 
that current pricing and reimbursement policies for gene 
therapies may not adequately reflect their high development 
costs, long timelines, and unique clinical value. The Committee 
encourages CMS to evaluate whether existing payment policies 
may discourage future innovation.
    Graduate Medical Education.--The Committee notes that 
Congress has provided over 1,000 additional Medicare-supported 
graduate medical education (GME) positions in recent years. 
Congress has specified four categories of hospitals eligible 
for additional GME positions: hospitals located in rural areas, 
hospitals currently training residents above their existing 
caps, hospitals located in States with new medical schools, and 
hospitals serving Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs). 
Within these categories, the Committee encourages CMS to 
consider future slot distribution to teaching hospitals 
associated with Historically Black Medical Schools. 
Historically Black Medical Schools and their teaching hospitals 
have been under-resourced, while serving in-need communities.
    Health Insurance Exchange Transparency.--The Committee 
continues bill language requiring CMS to continue to provide 
cost information for the health insurance exchange, including 
all categories described under this heading in the explanatory 
statement accompanying division B of P.L. 115-245, as well as 
estimated costs for fiscal year 2028.
    Immediate Jeopardy Reporting.--The Committee is concerned 
that CMS does not maintain consolidated national data on 
immediate jeopardy (IJ) findings issued during hospital 
surveys. The Committee encourages CMS to systematically track 
and maintain data on IJ citations issued to hospitals 
participating in the Medicare and Medicaid programs, including 
the number of such IJ citations and the hospitals cited and, to 
the extent practicable, make public data on such IJ citations.
    Improving Behavioral Health Care Coordination for Medicare 
Beneficiaries.--The Committee recognizes that behavioral health 
conditions are prevalent within the Medicare population, as 
older adults face unique risks, including social isolation, co-
occurring chronic disease, and elevated rates of depression, 
substance use disorder, and suicide. The Committee is concerned 
that Medicare beneficiaries with behavioral health conditions 
do not always receive optimal care for these conditions, which 
takes a significant toll on beneficiary well-being and leads to 
costly episodes of care. The Committee appreciates CMS' 
commitment to improving behavioral health for beneficiaries, 
including those in Medicare Advantage plans, and supports 
efforts to improve behavioral health care navigation in 
Medicare, including through the appropriate use of technology. 
The Committee requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification detailing steps CMS is taking to 
improve care navigation and outcomes for beneficiaries with 
behavioral health conditions, including mental health and 
substance use.
    Improving Care and Access to Nurses.--The Committee 
recognizes nurse practitioners play an essential role in 
meeting increasing demand for high-quality health care 
services. However, the Medicare program contains administrative 
barriers that can stifle the way the nation's health care 
delivery system is modernizing to meet increasing demand. These 
barriers may create inefficiencies and lead to duplicative 
visits, increased costs, delays in care for patients, and 
limits in patients' ability to receive care from their provider 
of choice. As such, the Committee encourages CMS to evaluate 
its policies and conditions of participation across all 
settings for nurse practitioners by removing any burdensome 
requirements in the Medicare program that limit professionals 
from practicing at the top of their profession in accordance 
with State law regarding physician supervision.
    Improving Veterans Enrollment into Medicare Coverage.--The 
Committee is aware that information gaps exist for some 
veterans related to the differences between the hospital care 
and medical services available in the VA system versus coverage 
provided under Medicare. The information gaps may have resulted 
in some veterans receiving late-enrollment penalties under the 
Medicare program. The Committee encourages HHS to work with the 
Department of Veterans Affairs to ensure that veterans have 
complete information regarding the differences between the VA 
system and Medicare coverage, including for prescription drugs.
    Integration of Direct to Patient Platforms with Insurance 
Coverage.--The Committee is encouraged by the emergence of 
direct-to-patient (DTP) prescription drug purchasing platforms 
but is concerned that absent integration with insurance benefit 
frameworks, patient purchases may not count toward deductibles 
or annual out-of-pocket limits, potentially undermining 
affordability and confusing consumers. The Committee directs 
CMS to brief the congressional committees of jurisdiction and 
submit a written update within 180 days of enactment of this 
Act detailing any actions CMS is taking to facilitate the 
integration of TrumpRx and similar DTP platforms with insurance 
coverage so patient cost-sharing can be appropriately credited 
toward deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums, and to describe 
any guidance, standards, or transparency measures under 
development to ensure consumers understand how such purchases 
interact with insurance benefits.
    Intensive Cardiac Rehabilitation.--The Committee recognizes 
that Intensive Cardiac Rehabilitation (ICR) and similar 
evidence-based lifestyle interventions can improve outcomes and 
support prevention and chronic disease management, thus 
extending the health span of Medicare beneficiaries. 
Nevertheless, participation remains low. The Committee 
encourages CMS, within its existing authority, to consider 
opportunities to expand beneficiary access to ICR services--
including for beneficiaries with risk factors such as obesity, 
diabetes, hypertension or metabolic syndrome--and to evaluate 
their potential to improve health outcomes and reduce costs.
    Leveraging Real-Time GME Data to Support Rural Health 
Transformation.--The Committee recognizes the benefit of using 
real-time information in order to assess whether GME programs 
are leading to improved physician supply in medically 
underserved areas. The Committee is concerned that stakeholders 
lack access to timely graduate medical education pipeline data, 
including residency application trends, match outcomes, and 
position fulfillment rates by specialty and geography. The 
Committee looks forward to receiving the professional judgment 
estimate requested from HRSA under the joint explanatory 
statement accompanying the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 
2006, and encourages CMS and HRSA to include any related 
recommendations on data standards, timelines, reporting 
requirement, and any statutory or regulatory barriers.
    Leveraging Virtual Care in Measuring Network Adequacy.--The 
Committee strongly supports virtual care, especially in rural 
and underserved areas experiencing provider shortages, but 
current regulation may limit the benefits of such care, 
impacting consumer choice and access. The Committee urges CMS 
to explore reforms to network adequacy requirements that take 
into account the benefits of virtual care providers, without 
harming access to local, in-person care.
    Long-Term Care Facility Metrics.--The Committee understands 
that CMS is reexamining the long-stay antipsychotic medication 
quality measure in the Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Five-Star 
Quality Rating System and is taking steps to ensure that such 
reporting distinguishes between appropriate and inappropriate 
use of these medications. The Committee supports these 
important efforts and encourages CMS to move away from an 
exemptions-based measure and incorporate concordant 
documentation from the prescriber and consultant pharmacist to 
support determination of appropriate use and confirmation of 
ongoing safety and effectiveness for the patient. To ensure the 
measure update meets the needs of beneficiaries with 
neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease, 
neurodegenerative disorders, and serious mental illness, the 
Committee encourages CMS to bring together stakeholders to help 
inform this process and address concerns about the unintended 
consequences of the current measure and how it discourages 
diagnosis-appropriate and guidelines-based treatment for 
beneficiaries in this setting. Further, the Committee requests 
CMS provide an update on these activities in the fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification.
    Long-term Care Pharmacies At-Home.--The Committee 
recognizes the importance of long-term care (LTC) pharmacies 
at-home in extending quality LTC services beyond institutional 
settings to patients in a place of residence, including but not 
limited to traditional long-term care facilities, assisted 
living communities, other residential community settings, and 
private residences. Further, the Committee notes the value of 
innovative pharmacy models, such as LTC pharmacies at-home, in 
delivering high-touch, specialized pharmacy services directly 
to seniors and to chronically-ill Medicare beneficiaries at 
home, particularly in rural and underserved areas, consistent 
with the standard of care provided by traditional LTC 
pharmacies. The Committee notes that LTC pharmacies at-home 
serve populations that include patients who manage numerous 
medications, have two or more chronic conditions, experience 
impairment with activities of daily living, and who often have 
limited access to brick-and-mortar pharmacies or long-term care 
facilities. The Committee encourages CMS to take into 
consideration the value that such pharmacy models demonstrate 
towards measurable reductions in medication waste, improved 
cost-savings through patient outcomes, and allowance for fewer 
inpatient hospital admissions and emergency department visits.
    Maintaining Access to Essential Medical Devices.--The 
Committee recognizes that CMS has authority to make payment 
adjustments under the inpatient prospective payment system 
(IPPS) and the hospital outpatient prospective payment system 
(OPPS) to support higher-quality domestically sourced medical 
products. The Committee encourages CMS to consider building on 
existing payment adjustments under IPPS and OPPS to promote 
access to domestically made medical devices and essential 
medical supplies, such as needles, syringes, and blood 
collection products.
    Maternal Healthcare in Rural Hospitals.--The Committee 
recognizes the importance of rural hospitals in providing 
maternal health care services, educating patients, and ensuring 
post-partum safety. The Committee is concerned that 
insufficient reimbursement and payments, increasing costs of 
operation, and narrowing profit margins threaten the viability 
of hospitals in rural areas. The Committee is aware that 
Medicaid payment rates are often insufficient for the costs of 
labor and delivery for rural hospitals, leading to the closures 
of labor and delivery departments and increased maternal health 
deserts. The Committee looks forward to receiving the update on 
this topic requested under House Report 119-271.
    Medicaid State Plan Transparency.--The Committee recognizes 
that State legislatures often face difficulty obtaining timely, 
complete, and comparable information regarding changes to State 
Medicaid coverage, including optional benefits, waiver-based 
coverage, and other State plan choices that may affect program 
costs and benefit design. The Committee encourages CMS, in 
consultation with the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access 
Commission (MACPAC), to explore the development of a 
centralized, publicly accessible clearinghouse that would serve 
as a resource for State-by-State Medicaid benefit design and 
State plan changes, including information on mandatory versus 
optional benefits and waiver authorities.
    Medicare Advantage Risk Adjustment.--The Committee notes 
its prior report language regarding coding intensity 
adjustments intended to enhance payment accuracy and protect 
patient access. The Committee is further concerned that the 
current risk adjustment model has become increasingly complex 
and may incentivize coding practices that raise program costs 
without improving patient care. The Committee encourages CMS to 
examine options to streamline MA risk adjustment by relying on 
demographics and a limited set of substantiated health 
conditions that are supported by objective clinical evidence, 
reflect meaningful differences in expected costs, and improve 
payment accuracy. The Committee further encourages CMS to 
evaluate options to maintain appropriate safeguards for 
beneficiaries with rare and extremely high-cost conditions, 
including consideration of a Federal reinsurance pool within MA 
risk adjustment.
    Medicare Advantage Step Therapy Protocols for Part B 
Drugs.--The Committee notes that in 2019, CMS permitted 
Medicare Advantage (MA) plans to apply utilization management 
protocols for certain physician-administered drugs covered 
under Medicare Part B. While this policy was intended to 
promote value and appropriate utilization, the Committee is 
concerned about the potential impact of step therapy on 
Medicare beneficiaries' timely access to medically necessary 
care. The Committee encourages the Secretary to review the 
current regulatory framework governing step therapy for Part B 
drugs in Medicare Advantage and consider reforms to help ensure 
that protocols do not create inappropriate barriers to 
medically necessary care. In conducting this review, the 
Committee encourages the Secretary to consider whether 
additional safeguards or clarifications may be appropriate to 
protect beneficiary access and improve program transparency.
    Medicare Clinical Laboratory Fee Schedule.--The Committee 
notes that private-payer data collected under the Protecting 
Access to Medicare Act (PAMA) in 2017 apparently failed to 
accurately reflect prevailing commercial market payment rates 
and testing volumes, particularly due to the limited 
participation of large segments of the laboratory market. As a 
result, Medicare payment rates established under the Clinical 
Laboratory Fee Schedule (CLFS) may not reflect the broader 
private market and may threaten beneficiary access to essential 
diagnostic testing, particularly in underserved and rural 
community settings. The Committee encourages CMS, as it 
continues to administer the program and undertake regulatory 
actions during ongoing policy deliberations, to educate all 
applicable laboratories about their data reporting obligations 
in an effort to avoid relying on incomplete or unrepresentative 
data that could distort Medicare payment rates. CMS should 
notify the committees of jurisdiction if commercial market data 
it receives for CLFS rate-setting is over-representative or 
under-representative of any segment of the laboratory market, 
including independent laboratories, hospital outreach 
laboratories, and physician office laboratories. CMS is 
encouraged to engage stakeholders and provide transparency 
regarding the data it receives and the sources of such data. 
The Committee requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification detailing any such data received 
and sources of the data, including the number of labs reporting 
data in each market segment and the proportional representation 
of each market segment in the reported data.
    Medicare Prescription Repayment Program.--The Committee 
directs CMS to provide a quarterly report to Congress and post 
on a public website available updates on (1) the number of 
beneficiaries who have opted into the Medicare Prescription 
Payment Plan, including trends and demographic breakdowns, to 
ensure transparency and inform potential improvements to the 
program; (2) the total number of beneficiaries categorized as 
``likely to benefit'' by participation in the program; (3) 
information on the methods that CMS is utilizing to encourage 
participation, such as the use of Medicare.gov, the Medicare 
and You handbook, 1-800-MEDICARE, and provider-focused 
communications such as the Medicare Learning Network; and (4) 
information on additional outreach efforts that CMS is 
conducting with stakeholders, including provider associations 
and societies, patient and consumer advocacy groups, and 
pharmacy benefit managers. The Committee acknowledges concerns 
raised by pharmacy groups regarding point-of-sale enrollment 
but emphasizes the need for a streamlined and accessible 
enrollment process for beneficiaries. As such, the Committee 
urges CMS to explore mechanisms to facilitate point-of-sale 
enrollment, ensuring that beneficiaries can easily access the 
program at the time of filling their prescriptions in person or 
online.
    Modernizing Prior Authorization.--The Committee is 
concerned that manual prior authorization processes create an 
administrative burden and delay patient care. To modernize this 
process, the Committee encourages CMS to establish a real-time 
authorization framework for routine services. Further, the 
Committee encourages CMS to publish an annual list of services 
eligible for real-time adjudication, possibly including 
services that: (1) have a historical approval rate of 90 
percent or higher; (2) are clinically routine and low risk; or 
(3) create significant administrative volume and burden for 
providers.
    Non-addictive Opioid Alternatives.--The Committee continues 
to recognize the ongoing need to address pain management while 
reducing the risk of opioid misuse, dependence, and diversion 
and was pleased that the FDA approved the first non-addictive 
opioid alternative in 2025. The Committee encourages CMS, 
within its existing authorities, to promote beneficiary access 
to these therapies, where clinically appropriate, in a manner 
that supports patient safety, effective pain management, and 
efforts to reduce opioid-related harms. Not later than 90 days 
after enactment of this Act, the Committee directs CMS to 
provide a report to the Committee on access to non-opioid acute 
pain treatments, including any barriers to access identified 
and actions CMS can take within its existing authorities to 
address such barriers. To the extent such data are available, 
the report shall include utilization rates, approval and denial 
rates, common reasons for denials, and steps taken to ensure 
timely, clinically appropriate access to non-addictive opioid 
alternatives. Such report shall be posted on a publicly 
available website.
    Non-Opioid Acute Pain Access Initiative.--The Committee 
encourages the Secretary to work with the Administration to 
explore agreements ensuring the maximum and least costly access 
to FDA-approved non-opioid acute pain therapeutics to reduce 
opioid initiation and addiction risk.
    No Surprises Act.--The Committee is concerned by reports 
from providers and physician organizations indicating that a 
significant number of Independent Dispute Resolution (IDR) 
awards are not being paid within the required timeframe or are 
not being paid at all. Providers have limited recourse when 
health plans do not comply, particularly following the Fifth 
Circuit's 2025 ruling that IDR determinations are not privately 
enforceable in Federal court. The Committee believes that the 
enforceability of IDR determinations is essential to the 
willingness of providers and health plans to participate in the 
process in good faith. The Committee directs the Departments of 
HHS, Labor, and the Treasury, to submit a report to the 
Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives 
and the Senate not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act on insurer compliance with IDR payment 
requirements, including data on the timeliness of payments, the 
volume and nature of non-payment complaints, and enforcement 
actions taken to date.
    No Surprises Act Enforcement for Air Ambulance Services.--
The Committee is concerned that under the No Surprises Act 
(NSA), insurers continue to fail to meet statutory payment and 
independent dispute resolution (IDR) requirements for services, 
including air ambulance services, such as late payments post-
IDR determinations. The Committee also has concerns about the 
lack of transparent and accurate Qualified Payment Amount 
calculations and the use of ghost rates and other irrelevant 
contracts that depress reimbursement below market rates. 
Therefore, the Committee directs the Secretary, within 180 days 
of the enactment of the Act, to submit a report to the 
Committee describing specific oversight and enforcement actions 
taken and planned to: (1) ensure timely compliance with NSA IDR 
requirements for air ambulance services; (2) improve 
transparency and validation of Qualified Payment Amount 
calculations and eliminate the use of ghost rates; and (3) 
curtail improper medical-necessity and prior-authorization 
denials for emergency transports and excessive documentation 
requirements that impede payment of otherwise valid claims.
    Occupational Therapy Mental Health Services.--The Committee 
notes that Medicare covers occupational therapy services 
furnished for the treatment of mental health and substance use 
disorder diagnoses when billed under applicable HCPCS codes. 
The Committee encourages CMS to review its existing guidance 
and consider opportunities, within its current authority, to 
improve education and outreach to stakeholders about the 
Medicare Benefit Policy Manual provisions applicable to these 
services.
    Ongoing Responsibility for Medicals.--The Committee 
continues to be supportive of modernizing the Medicare 
Secondary Payer (MSP) program and interested in understanding 
the impacts of the program on beneficiary access to treatment. 
Since 2011, the Medicare ``User Guide'' controlling reporting 
of settlements, judgments, and awards to Medicare has required 
the reporting of Ongoing Responsibility for Medicals (ORM) when 
an insurer or self-insured has continuing responsibility for 
future medical payments as a matter of law or agreement. From 
the inception of the requirement, Medicare has only allowed ORM 
to be terminated if the reporting entity can secure a letter 
from a treating physician that no further treatment is needed, 
which is typically impossible to secure. This has created 
serious problems for tens of thousands of beneficiaries, given 
that many providers refuse any treatment of Medicare 
beneficiaries due to an ORM flag on the file, even if the 
treatment is unrelated to the accident or injury giving rise to 
the MSP report. The Committee is concerned that CMS has imposed 
unreasonable conditions to terminate ORM--particularly in cases 
where a person went to an emergency room for a minor injury and 
ORM is required by State law. The Committee urges CMS to submit 
a report to the committees of jurisdiction on the impact of 
modernizing the ORM termination criteria with any 
recommendations for how CMS could timely do so.
    Organ Procurement Organizations (OPOs) Spinal Column 
Recovery.--The Committee encourages OPOs to prioritize the 
recovery of the spinal column from deceased donors as a key 
component of the Nation's transplantation infrastructure. 
Deceased donor spinal columns contain a plentiful supply of 
bone marrow that can be processed and cryopreserved as 
transplantable units. Cryopreserved deceased donor bone marrow 
can be rapidly deployed to support patients with life-
threatening conditions such as aggressive blood cancers, bone 
marrow failure syndromes, sickle cell disease, autoimmune 
disorders, and failed live donor transplants. The Committee 
encourages OPOs to coordinate with HRSA, the OPTN, and 
transplant hospitals to implement standardized consent, 
recovery, and distribution protocols, and to report annually on 
donor participation and spinal columns recovered.
    PACE Quality Measurement Framework.--The Committee 
recognizes the importance of the Program of All-Inclusive Care 
for the Elderly (PACE), which enables medically complex older 
adults with significant long-term care needs to remain living 
at home safely as an alternative to nursing facility placement. 
The Committee is concerned current Federal and State quality 
reporting requirements are redundant, which undermines 
transparency, comparability, and accountability. To improve the 
effectiveness and consistency of PACE quality data reporting 
and reduce administrative burden, the Committee urges CMS to 
work with relevant stakeholders to establish a national, 
standardized quality measurement framework.
    PBM Practices in Medicare Part D Regarding Biosimilars.--
The Committee is concerned that certain payer and pharmacy 
benefit manager (PBM) practices may impede patient access to 
lower-cost biosimilars. The Committee notes that biosimilars 
should be considered part of a cost-effective formulary and 
encourages CMS to enhance oversight related to formulary 
placement, utilization management, and patient cost-sharing 
practices that affect biosimilars in the Part D market. CMS is 
encouraged to collect and publicly report data, as appropriate, 
on patient out-of-pocket costs and access barriers associated 
with biosimilars compared to reference biologics, and to 
identify practices that may undermine competition or increase 
costs for patients.
    Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Early Detection and 
Amputation Prevention Initiative.--The Committee has previously 
encouraged CMS to promote efforts to prevent amputations 
associated with PAD, which effects an estimated 21 million 
Americans. Each year, more than 200,000 individuals with PAD 
experience avoidable amputation. The Committee has previously 
encouraged the Administrator, in collaboration with leading 
clinical and patient advocacy organizations, to establish a PAD 
education program for patients and clinicians. To reduce the 
number of Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries undergoing 
preventable amputation, the Committee encourages CMS to explore 
ways to encourage the appropriate use of PAD screening for 
high-risk individuals.
    Pharmacist-Provided Incident to Physician Services.--The 
Committee is pleased with CMS's recognition in the calendar 
year 2021 physician fee schedule (PFS) final rule (FR 84583) 
that ``pharmacists could be considered QHPs (qualified health 
care professionals) or clinical staff, depending on their role 
in a given service,'' and that ``new coding might be useful to 
specifically identify these particular models of care.'' 
However, the Committee remains concerned with current CMS PFS 
requirements restricting physicians' and nonphysician 
practitioners' (NPPs) utilizing pharmacists under incident to 
models to bill at the lowest-acuity E/M code (99211), with an 
estimated time commitment of seven minutes. The Committee notes 
this restriction has diminished providers' engagement with 
pharmacists in team-based care models across the country. CMS 
should consider how to ensure physicians and NPPs can optimize 
the use of pharmacists. The Committee encourages CMS to 
identify mechanisms to attribute, report, and sustain 
pharmacists' patient care contributions to beneficiaries in the 
Medicare Part B program.
    Pharmacists and Patient Care Services.--The Committee is 
aware that certain Medicare Part B services and care frameworks 
have provisions to include pharmacists and their patient care 
services. However, CMS has few mechanisms to identify and 
evaluate the contributions of pharmacists to patient care and 
outcomes or to identify barriers within current service 
requirements that prevent the scalable involvement of 
pharmacists. The Committee requests a report from CMS within 90 
days of enactment of this Act describing potential regulatory 
adjustments to incentivize team-based care delivery models that 
include pharmacists practicing at the top of their license, in 
accordance with State law and subject to any State's 
requirements regarding physician supervision of collaboration 
with pharmacists in furnishing services.
    Postpartum Care.--The Committee recognizes postpartum care 
one year after birth is critical to the health of mothers and 
babies. While postpartum care in the first 84 days after birth 
focuses on stabilizing and recovering, longer term care 
protects future health especially for those who experience 
preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and postpartum depression 
among others. Mental health conditions are the number one 
underlying cause of maternal mortality, accounting for 
approximately 23 percent of all pregnancy-related deaths while 
blood clots and infections each account for 9 percent of 
deaths. Late postpartum deaths still make up a significant 
share of these deaths, making postpartum care throughout the 
first year crucial. Therefore, the Committee encourages the 
National Committee for Quality Assurance to consider 
improvements to the Healthcare Effectiveness Data and 
Information Set (HEDIS) metric for prenatal and postpartum care 
to measure visits up to one year postpartum.
    Private-Label or Affiliated Marketing Arrangements for 
Biological Products and Biosimilars.--The Committee is aware of 
the increasing use of private-label or affiliated marketing 
arrangements for biological products and biosimilars by 
vertically integrated entities participating in Federal health 
programs. The Committee is concerned about the impact of 
vertical integration and affiliated product steering on market 
competition, formulary access, and long-term pricing dynamics 
that could impact the increased competition for biosimilars and 
value they provide to patients and the marketplace.
    Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE).--The 
Committee continues to recognize the importance of the Program 
of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), a capitated 
coordinated care model that enables medically complex older 
adults, mostly dual-eligibles, with significant long-term care 
needs, to remain living at home. In its June 2025 report to 
Congress, MACPAC noted that stakeholders largely agree that the 
PACE program ``represents the most fully integrated form of 
care available to dually eligible individuals''. The Committee 
believes that all eligible participants should have the 
opportunity to access these programs to meet their complex 
medical and social needs. The Committee further believes that 
policies should encourage access to PACE programs, and States 
should provide a regulatory environment which ensures that 
there are sufficient PACE entities to meet participant needs. 
The Committee notes the barrier to the establishment of new 
PACE programs based on the presence of existing PACE programs 
in service areas even though there may be unmet need in those 
service areas. Therefore, the Committee urges CMS to promulgate 
regulations that address the concern of States denying new PACE 
establishment applications based solely on the presence of an 
existing PACE facility in a defined service area.
    Protecting Essential Medicines.--The Committee recognizes 
the critical importance of maintaining domestic manufacturing 
capacity for essential medications. The Committee is concerned 
that the statutory design of the Manufacturer Discount Program 
(MDP) intended for brand products inadvertently includes 
products that were approved under a New Drug Application (NDA) 
rather than a generic Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) 
due solely to unique FDA regulatory circumstances. The 
Committee requests the Department provide an update in the 
fiscal year 2028 congressional justification specifying the 
current impact on patients, steps that can be taken by CMS and 
Congress to address this issue, and efforts to support domestic 
manufacturers producing essential medicines.
    Provider Directory Modernization and Infrastructure.--The 
Committee appreciates the efforts of CMS to advance a National 
Provider Directory for Healthcare Access and underscores the 
importance of accurate, up-to-date provider data for effective 
program administration and patient access to care. As this work 
proceeds, the Committee encourages CMS to consider leveraging 
existing integrated platforms for provider data submission 
already widely used across public and private health programs, 
to the maximum extent practicable, and to avoid unnecessary 
duplication or fragmentation that would increase costs and 
administrative and operational burdens on providers and other 
stakeholders. The Committee recognizes that providers, States, 
and private-sector entities routinely operate across multiple 
Federal, State, and commercial health programs and rely on 
shared provider data systems to meet overlapping provider 
directory requirements. Accordingly, the Committee supports 
current private sector platforms for data submission to avoid 
disruption of existing provider data workflows.
    Radiation Oncology.--The Committee remains concerned that 
efforts to reform the delivery and payment of certain types of 
radiation therapy may negatively affect patient access and 
outcomes, particularly emerging therapies that are not widely 
available. The Committee continues to encourage CMS to work 
closely with all affected stakeholders to develop reforms that 
will support patient access to high quality, innovative care 
and best utilize Medicare trust funds.
    Rapid Post-Discharge Engagement.--The Committee recognizes 
the critical vulnerability of individuals in the immediate 
period following discharge from hospitals, emergency 
departments, and inpatient psychiatric settings. Evidence 
demonstrates that the first 72 hours post-discharge present 
elevated risk for relapse, avoidable readmission, overdose, 
housing instability, and disengagement from care. The Committee 
encourages the Secretary to support community-based 
organizations, Medicaid providers, and managed care entities in 
implementing rapid post-discharge engagement models that 
include: community-based outreach within 72 hours of discharge; 
90 days of intensive stabilization services addressing medical, 
behavioral health, and social drivers of health; and 12 months 
of structured peer recovery or peer support follow-up to ensure 
continuity of care and long-term stabilization. Such models 
should prioritize individuals with behavioral health 
conditions, substance use disorders, complex chronic 
conditions, and co-occurring social risk factors. The Secretary 
is encouraged to promote reimbursement pathways under Medicaid, 
including managed care value-based arrangements and Section 
1115 demonstrations, as appropriate, to support these services.
    Rare Disease Treatment.--The Committee is concerned that 
the vast majority of rare diseases do not have treatments 
indicated for their disease. The Committee recognizes that 
these patients may rely on off-label uses of other treatments 
to manage symptoms or side effects, or the disease itself. 
However, for Part D patients, access to off-label treatments 
within the standard of care can be particularly problematic 
since Part D plans are prohibited from including off-label uses 
not listed in compendia in the Part D benefit, including lack 
of an appeal or reconsideration mechanism available to overcome 
the fact that the prescribed use is outside of the Part D 
benefit. While not similarly prohibited, coverage is also 
tenuous in Medicaid, which is especially problematic given that 
over half of all rare diseases affect children. The Committee 
urges CMS to work with rare disease umbrella organizations that 
have identified and prioritized recognition of this significant 
access barrier and have undertaken efforts to serve as a 
clearing house for such indications to identify possible 
solutions to this access issue.
    Reducing False-Positive Sepsis Blood Cultures.--The 
Committee is aware that more than 40 percent of blood culture 
tests used to diagnosis blood stream infections, like sepsis, 
are false-positive results due to blood culture contaminations 
from a patient's skin and not an actual infection. These false-
positive test results lead to serious morbidity and mortality 
among misdiagnosed patients, significant spending on 
unnecessary treatment, and the overuse of antibiotics. The 
Committee encourages CMS to prioritize and expedite, as 
appropriate, the adoption of a blood culture contamination rate 
measure that relies on the one percent or less blood culture 
contamination rate standard set by the CDC into the Medicare 
Hospital-Acquired Condition (HAC) Reduction Program.
    Removing Administrative Barriers to Accessing Pharmacist 
Services in Medicare Advantage Plans.--The Committee recognizes 
that Medicare Advantage (MA) plans may reimburse patient care 
services provided by State-licensed pharmacists as individuals 
engaged in the delivery of services as licensed or certified by 
the State. However, the Committee notes that administrative 
barriers may limit the ability of MA plans to successfully 
contract with pharmacists. The Committee is concerned that CMS 
does not currently provide a clear pathway for pharmacists to 
enroll in the Medicare Provider Enrollment, Chain, and 
Ownership System (PECOS). Enrolling in PECOS is required for a 
pharmacist to receive a Provider Transaction Access Number 
(PTAN), necessary for internal processing and communication 
with MA plans. The Committee encourages CMS, within existing 
statutory authority, to ensure pharmacists can enroll in PECOS 
as a non-physician specialty type and provide an administrative 
mechanism for pharmacists to obtain a PTAN.
    Renaming of HealthCare.gov.--The Committee is concerned 
that public discourse after the Affordable Care Act has 
confused health care with health insurance. Therefore, the 
Committee encourages CMS to rename HealthCare.gov to 
HealthInsurance.gov to more accurately inform the American 
people of what they are signing up to purchase.
    Restriction on New Coverage Determinations for PLA/
Xinjiang-Linked Medicines.--The Committee is concerned about 
the use of Federal health care dollars to support products 
whose pivotal clinical trials were conducted at PLA military 
hospitals or sites in Xinjiang and encourages HHS to closely 
scrutinize any new reimbursement determinations or coverage 
expansions involving such products.
    Robotic Stereotactic Radiosurgery.--The Committee 
appreciates the highly specialized and clinically important 
cancer treatments of robotic stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) 
and robotic stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). These 
advanced technologies enable the precise, noninvasive delivery 
of high-dose radiation in fewer treatment sessions, which may 
improve patient compliance, reduce complications, and lower 
overall system costs. The Committee urges CMS and Medicare 
Administrative Contractors (MACs) administering the Medicare 
program to maintain the distinct G codes that accurately 
describe robotic SRS and robotic SBRT services to ensure 
reimbursement appropriately reflects the complexity, resource 
intensity, and clinical value of these therapies, preserving 
patient access to care.
    Screening For Cervical Cancer with Human Papillomavirus 
Self Sampling.--The Committee recognizes that HPV self-sampling 
can expand access to screening for individuals who are never or 
under-screened. The Committee encourages HHS to support 
implementation of screening recommendations that allow HPV 
self-collection. The Committee further encourages CMS to 
provide clear guidance on coverage and reimbursement for HPV 
self-collection tests and encourages CDC to provide 
implementation resources, particularly for rural and 
underserved populations. The Committee directs HHS to provide a 
report to the Committee within one year of enactment of this 
Act describing implementation progress and remaining barriers 
to access.
    Skin Substitutes.--The Committee supports efforts to 
address serious fraud regarding Medicare's coverage of and 
payment for skin substitute products. In implementing changes 
to the payment of skin substitutes in the Calendar Year 2026 
Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule (published in the 
Federal Register on November 5, 2025), the Committee strongly 
encourages CMS to address the impact on Medicare patient 
access, cost, and health outcomes. The Committee directs CMS to 
provide an update in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification on the impact of the rule on preserving patient 
access while ensuring program integrity.
    Sole Community Hospital/Medicare Dependent Hospital 
Graduate Medical Education Funding Parity.--The Committee notes 
that Sole Community Hospitals (SCH) and Medicare Dependent 
Hospitals (MDH) receive over $70,000 less annually per resident 
in graduate medical education (GME) funding due to their 
Medicare reimbursement model. A 2024 study found that PPS 
hospitals received a median annual payment of $179,442 per 
resident while hospital specific rates used by SCHs and MDHs 
averaged $107,294 per resident per annum. The Committee 
recognizes that this disparity often results from SCH and MDH 
inability to access indirect medical education (IME) payments. 
This situation puts SCHs and MDHs at a competitive disadvantage 
for attracting a prospective healthcare workforce to rural 
areas. The Committee directs CMS to report to the committees of 
jurisdiction within 90 days of enactment of this Act with an 
analysis of policy options to bring parity between PPS, SCH, 
and MDH hospitals concerning GME payments.
    State Medicaid Eligibility Innovation.--The Committee 
recognizes the existing challenges faced by State Medicaid 
agencies and local governments in verifying eligibility for 
both new applicants and current beneficiaries. The Committee 
directs HHS to coordinate with State agencies to identify the 
investments needed in staffing, training, and technology to 
sustainably improve the accuracy and timeliness of application 
processing, eligibility verification, and the redetermination 
and recertification of eligibility. No later than 180 days 
after the enactment of this Act, HHS shall submit a report to 
the Committee detailing its findings, including recommendations 
to improve eligibility verification.
    Supplier Verification.--The Committee is concerned that 
durable medical equipment (DME), such as insulin delivery 
systems and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), ostomy, and 
urological supplies, requires robust mechanisms to verify the 
identity and legitimacy of manufacturers and distributors to 
ensure patients maintain access to safe and effective 
technologies and supplies. CMS and its contractors should 
conduct robust monitoring, including unannounced ``secret 
shopper'' calls to contract suppliers to ensure Medicare 
beneficiaries are not steered into products that were not 
ordered by their prescribing physicians or health care 
providers.
    Transparency Report on PLA Linked Pharmaceutical Clinical 
Trials.--The Committee is concerned about the use of Federal 
health care dollars to support products whose pivotal clinical 
trials were conducted at PLA military hospitals or sites in 
Xinjiang, and encourages HHS to publish a report identifying 
drugs reimbursed under Medicare or Medicaid whose pivotal 
clinical trials were conducted at PLA military hospitals, AMMS-
affiliated sites, or sites located in the Xinjiang Uyghur 
Autonomous Region.
    Treasury Referrals.--The Committee continues to be 
supportive of modernizing the Medicare Secondary Payer (MSP) 
program and is interested in understanding the impacts of the 
program on the Federal government. The Committee understands 
that CMS may refer the debt of some claims to the Treasury 
Department for collection even before the appeal period has 
expired and the Committee urges CMS to coordinate with Treasury 
to review these timeline interactions.
    Treatment in Place.--The Committee is concerned that 
Medicare's current payment policy for Emergency Medical 
Services (EMS), which generally reimburses only when a 
beneficiary is transported by ambulance to a hospital emergency 
department, can encourage unnecessary transport to one of the 
most expensive sites of care. The Committee is aware that many 
9-1-1 calls involve non-emergent conditions that could be 
safely managed on site, including with telemedicine support or 
referral to another appropriate provider, and that more than a 
dozen State Medicaid programs and many commercial insurers 
currently reimburse EMS for treatment in place (TIP) services. 
The Committee is particularly concerned about the impact of 
avoidable emergency department transport on individuals with 
disabilities and mobility limitations and about the strain that 
prolonged offload times place on the EMS workforce and response 
capacity. The Committee notes that, when clinically 
appropriate, TIP may improve patient experience, reduce costs, 
and help decompress overcrowded emergency departments. 
Therefore, the Committee encourages CMS to evaluate options to 
recognize and reimburse appropriate TIP services furnished by 
EMS agencies to Medicare beneficiaries. The Committee further 
encourages HHS to: (1) review available evidence on the safety, 
quality, and cost of EMS delivered TIP; (2) examine State 
Medicaid and commercial payer models that reimburse TIP and 
similar non-transport services; and (3) identify potential 
Medicare payment pathways and corresponding standards.
    Waste, Fraud, and Abuse Prevention and Program Integrity 
Modernization.--The Committee supports CMS in its efforts to 
move beyond traditional ``pay-and-chase'' models and adopt 
proactive, technology-driven approaches to prevent waste, 
fraud, and abuse before improper payments occur. The Committee 
encourages CMS to leverage advanced industry solutions, 
including interoperable data platforms, predictive analytics, 
and artificial intelligence tools, to enhance program integrity 
across Medicare, Medicaid, and marketplace programs. These 
capabilities should enable real-time risk scoring, provider 
identity verification, and anomaly detection to prevent bad 
actors from entering the system and receiving unauthorized 
payments. The Committee encourages CMS to continue these 
efforts by prioritizing adoption of proven commercial 
technologies that support comprehensive data integration, 
secure cloud analytics, and automated compliance monitoring. 
These investments should align with CMS' Program Integrity Rule 
for the ACA Marketplace and other regulatory requirements, 
ensuring robust governance, privacy protections, and 
transparency. The Committee requests an update in the fiscal 
year 2028 congressional justification from CMS on its progress 
toward implementing these solutions, including measurable 
outcomes such as reduced improper payments, improved provider 
vetting accuracy, and enhanced consumer protections.
    Wasteful and Inappropriate Services Reduction (WISeR) 
Model.--The Committee notes concern with CMS' Wasteful and 
Inappropriate Service Reduction (WISeR) Model, which may create 
burdens and delays for patients and providers. The Committee 
believes that any proposal to impose prior authorization 
requirements in traditional Medicare should be subject to 
robust congressional oversight and transparent evaluation of 
impacts on beneficiary access to care, provider burden, and 
program costs. The Committee requests CMS provide an update in 
the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification on the impact 
of this pilot program on patients and how States were selected 
for participation.
    Whole Child Health.--The Committee encourages CMS to work 
with States to identify best practices and pathways to address 
the root causes of poor physical and mental health in children 
served by Medicaid and CHIP, including in rural areas. The 
Committee looks forward to receiving the update on this topic 
requested under House Report 119-271.

State Survey and Certification

    The Committee provides $425,000,000 for State Survey and 
Certification activities. This program supports certifications 
of Medicare and Medicaid certified health care facilities to 
ensure that beneficiaries receive care at facilities that meet 
health, safety, and quality standards as required by CMS.

Federal Administration

    The Committee provides $764,921,000 for Federal 
Administration activities related to the Medicare and Medicaid 
programs. Federal Administration funding supports CMS staff, 
along with operating and administrative expenses for 
information technology, communication, utilities, rent and 
space requirements, as well as administrative contracts.

              HEALTH CARE FRAUD AND ABUSE CONTROL ACCOUNT

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $941,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       976,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       969,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +28,000,000
    Change from budget request........................        -7,000,000
 

    The Health Care Fraud and Abuse Control Account funds 
support activities conducted by CMS, the HHS OIG, and the 
Department of Justice (DOJ). This appropriation includes a base 
amount of $311,000,000 and an additional $658,000,000 in budget 
adjustment funding.
    This funding is in addition to other mandatory funding 
provided through authorizing legislation. The funding will 
provide resources to continue efforts for Medicaid program 
integrity activities, for safeguarding the Medicare 
prescription drug benefit and the Medicare Advantage program, 
and for program integrity efforts related to these programs 
carried out by the DOJ.
    Senior Medicare Patrol.--The Committee includes bill 
language to enable the Secretary to provide a total of 
$35,000,000 for the Senior Medicare Patrol program, which is 
administered by the Administration for Community Living, from 
either discretionary or mandatory funds provided to this 
account.

                Administration for Children and Families


  PAYMENTS TO STATES FOR CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT AND FAMILY SUPPORT 
                                PROGRAMS

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $4,147,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     2,792,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     2,792,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................    -1,355,000,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Committee also provides $1,700,000,000 in advance 
funding, as requested, for the first quarter of fiscal year 
2028 to ensure timely payments for Child Support Enforcement 
programs. These formula and incentive grants to States foster 
parental responsibility and promote family independence, self-
sufficiency, and child well-being through services such as 
locating noncustodial parents, establishing and enforcing 
support orders, and collecting and disbursing child support 
payments.

               LOW INCOME HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $4,045,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................             - - -
Committee Recommendation..............................     4,055,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +10,000,000
    Change from budget request........................    +4,055,000,000
 

    The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program provides 
formula grants to States to support eligible families and 
households through programs providing assistance with energy 
costs. The Committee recognizes the positive impact LIHEAP has 
on low-income families and encourages HHS to maintain this 
program for eligible recipients.

                     REFUGEE AND ENTRANT ASSISTANCE

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $5,163,956,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     3,577,234,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     3,577,234,000
    Change from enacted level.........................    -1,586,722,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) programs are 
designed to help refugees, asylees, Cuban and Haitian entrants, 
and trafficking victims become employed and self-sufficient. 
These programs also provide for the care of unaccompanied alien 
children in Federal custody and survivors of torture.
    The Committee continues to direct ORR to provide monthly 
updates of arrivals each month by category, including refugees, 
asylees, Cuban and Haitian entrants, Special Immigrant Visas, 
and unaccompanied alien children.
    Within the total, the Committee includes the following:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                            FY 2027
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted       Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Transitional and Medical Services.       $564,000,000        $10,420,000
Refugee Support Services..........        307,201,000         92,580,000
Victims of Trafficking............         30,755,000         30,755,000
Unaccompanied Alien Children......      4,243,000,000      3,424,479,000
Survivors of Torture..............         19,000,000         19,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Committee acknowledges the Trump Administration's 
efforts to secure the border, reduce illegal immigration, and 
limit refugee arrivals. The Committee encourages the Department 
to continue processing credible refugee referrals from the 
Department of State and DHS through existing refugee assistance 
programs.

Transitional and Medical Services

    The Transitional and Medical Services (TAMS) program 
provides refugees and other eligible populations a path to 
economic self-sufficiency and successful resettlement through 
employment training and placement, case management services, 
and English language training. TAMS also provides temporary 
cash assistance, medical assistance, domestic medical 
screenings for eligible individuals, and foster care services 
for unaccompanied refugee children.

Refugee Support Services

    The Refugee Support Services (RSS) program provides 
services to address barriers to employment, focusing on 
employment-based English language training, case management, 
employment preparation, and job placement and retention 
services.

Victims of Trafficking

    The Victims of Trafficking program funds competitive grants 
and contracts for services to foreign victims of trafficking 
and potential victims in the United States.
    Within the $30,755,000 provided for Victims of Trafficking, 
the Committee includes not less than $5,000,000 for the 
National Human Trafficking Hotline (Hotline), which is the same 
as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    Education and Awareness in Health Care.--The Committee 
recognizes that victims of trafficking often utilize the health 
care system and medical professionals are in a unique position 
to identify and respond to signs of abuse. The Committee 
encourages ACF to continue funding the SOAR to Health and 
Wellness Training Program (SOAR Program) to train health care 
professionals to understand the risk factors of trafficking, to 
recognize indicators of trafficking, to screen patients and 
identify potential victims, and to work with relevant 
stakeholders to deliver trauma-informed and person-centered 
care. The Committee further encourages the agency to evaluate 
the effectiveness of the SOAR Program, specifically its impacts 
on identifying and reporting suspected trafficking cases in 
health care settings. The evaluation should also include a 
cost-benefit analysis of Federal spending on the SOAR Program. 
The Committee requests ACF include an update in its fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification detailing the agencies 
efforts.
    Protecting Human Trafficking Survivors.--The Committee 
directs ACF to continue ensuring the Hotline complies with all 
applicable laws and regulations regarding its operation, 
assistance to victims of severe forms of trafficking in 
persons, survivor confidentiality, and mandatory reporting. The 
Hotline is authorized to assist survivors in communicating with 
service providers and must maintain a person-centered approach 
focused on survivors' well-being. The Committee encourages ACF 
to consider mechanisms to redirect third-party callers who are 
reporting tips to the appropriate law enforcement tiplines. The 
Committee requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification detailing the Hotline's compliance 
with applicable laws and policies regarding the operation of 
the Hotline.
    Youth Prevention Education and Awareness.--The Committee 
recognizes the important role of educators in preventing human 
trafficking and providing a safe and supportive school 
environment for survivors. The Committee strongly encourages 
ACF to continue funding the Human Trafficking Youth Prevention 
Education (HTYPE) Demonstration Grant program. HTYPE provides 
funds to local educational agencies for the purpose of 
partnering with law enforcement and non-governmental 
organizations to develop and implement human trafficking 
prevention education and training opportunities for students, 
caregivers, teachers, and other school personnel. The Committee 
notes the program's success in helping participants identify, 
respond to, and support potential victims of trafficking. The 
Committee urges ACF to expand education and training 
opportunities to school nurses and other school-based health 
care providers.

Unaccompanied Alien Children (UAC)

    The UAC program supports the care and placement of 
unaccompanied children under age 18 who are apprehended by DHS. 
The program's core mission is to temporarily shelter, care for, 
and protect vulnerable children from trafficking, forced labor, 
and other forms of exploitation.
    The Committee acknowledges the Trump Administration's 
immigration enforcement and border protection measures that 
have reduced UAC border encounters and associated costs. The 
Committee proposes reduced funding consistent with the 
account's historical needs and available carryover funds. The 
Committee provides this funding to support standard bed 
capacity, child welfare services, and continued improvements to 
sponsor vetting and child safety.
    Care and Placement Report.--The Committee directs ORR to 
continue to submit biannual reports to the Committee that 
include the number of UACs that remain in HHS care for longer 
than one year and the number of UACs that HHS has released to 
sponsors. The report should also include an explanation of the 
methods ORR uses to follow-up with unaccompanied children after 
releasing them to a sponsor, including the follow-up method 
used and number of attempts made. The Department shall include 
the total number of UACs that ORR has been unable to contact 
successfully for follow-up for fiscal years 2021-2026 and shall 
make such a report available on its website.
    Facility Occupancy Rates.--The Committee notes that HHS 
publishes updated data on its website on occupancy rates in 
facilities, average length of care in HHS custody, UAC 
demographics, and releases to sponsors by category.
    Fair and Open Contracting and Grant Making.--The Committee 
continues to direct the agency to conduct all public 
solicitations for grants or contracts in a manner that is fair, 
open, transparent, and free from ideological bias and conflict 
of interest. All Federal laws, regulations, and guidelines on 
communications with outside vendors should be rigorously 
adhered to with appropriate internal controls in place to avoid 
undue risk of favoritism or other bias in making selections.
    Home Studies.--The Committee notes that the Trafficking 
Victims Protection Reauthorization Act requires home studies of 
potential sponsors when the child is a victim of trafficking, 
special needs/disabled, a victim of physical or sexual abuse, 
or if the sponsor clearly presents a risk of abuse, 
maltreatment, exploitation, or trafficking. ORR additionally 
mandates home studies if a potential sponsor is seeking to 
sponsor two or more children and at least one of the children 
is unrelated to the potential sponsor, if a potential sponsor 
has previously been the sponsor of two or more children and is 
now seeking to sponsor an additional child, or if a potential 
sponsor is seeking to sponsor an unrelated child who is 12 
years or under. The Committee acknowledges the Department's 
efforts to improve ORR's sponsor vetting process and encourages 
ORR to continue prioritizing the safety and well-being of UACs 
by enforcing home study requirements.
    Interagency Information Sharing.--The Committee instructs 
ORR to complete the directives under this heading in the 
explanatory statement that accompanied Division B of P.L. 119-
75.
    Know Your Rights Presentations.--The Committee encourages 
the Department to continue providing Know Your Rights 
presentations for UACs in custody consistent with the William 
Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act 
of 2008 (P.L. 110-457). The Committee further encourages HHS to 
continue providing information on resources to prevent 
exploitation as part of ORR's notice of rights.
    Notification of Fatalities in ORR Care.--The Committee 
directs ORR to continue to report the death of any 
unaccompanied alien child in its custody within 24 hours, 
including relevant details regarding the circumstances of the 
fatality.
    ORR Employee Vetting.--The Committee encourages ORR to 
continue working with influx care facilities (ICFs) and 
emergency intake sites (EISs) to conduct all required 
background checks for employees, volunteers, and contractors 
who may have contact with children in ORR care. The Committee 
further encourages ORR to maintain and enforce monitoring 
requirements for ICFs and EISs, including reviewing compliance 
with all background check requirements and conducting quarterly 
on-site monitoring visits.
    Spend Plan and Briefings.--The Committee continues to 
direct ORR to complete the reporting and briefing requirements 
under this heading in the explanatory statement that 
accompanied Division B of P.L. 119-75.

Survivors of Torture

    The program funds competitive grants to nonprofit 
organizations providing services to refugees, asylees, and 
asylum seekers to address the effects of torture.
    Trafficking Prevention.--The Committee recognizes ORR's 
efforts to establish a whole of government approach to combat 
fraud, exploitation, and trafficking in the UAC program. The 
Committee continues to direct ORR to submit quarterly reports 
to the Committee that includes the number of referrals that ORR 
has made to the DHS's Homeland Security Investigations 
Division. The Committee further directs ORR to brief the 
Committee within 90 days of enactment of this Act on the 
implementation of the ORR Interagency Crime Coordination Cell, 
including how ORR, in consultation with OTIP and law 
enforcement partners, is processing potential trafficking 
cases.

                   PROMOTING SAFE AND STABLE FAMILIES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $482,515,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       482,515,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       482,515,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Committee provides $420,000,000 in mandatory funds and 
$62,515,000 in discretionary funds for the Promoting Safe and 
Stable Families program. This program enables each State to 
operate a coordinated program of family preservation services, 
community-based family support services, time-limited 
reunification services, and adoption promotion and support 
services.
    Within the discretionary total, the Committee provides 
$2,750,000 for the Family First Clearinghouse and related 
research and evaluation.

   PAYMENTS TO STATES FOR THE CHILD CARE AND DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $8,831,387,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     8,831,387,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     8,841,387,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +10,000,000
    Change from budget request........................       +10,000,000
 

    The Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) provides 
formula grants to States, territories, and Tribes to provide 
financial assistance to help low-income working families and 
families engaged in training or education activities pay for 
childcare.
    The Committee continues to include bill language providing 
a Tribal set-aside of not less than 5 percent.
    Family-Based Child Care Centers.--The Committee recognizes 
the essential role family childcare providers play in 
supporting working families and expanding access to high 
quality early childhood care and education, particularly for 
children in of color, children in rural and underserved 
communities, and families requiring care during nontraditional 
hours. The Committee is concerned that family childcare 
providers continue to experience challenges accessing funding 
opportunities, workforce supports, and reimbursement rates 
comparable to those available to center-based providers. The 
Committee directs the Secretary of Health of Human Services and 
relevant agencies to conduct a study examining the barriers to 
the sustainability, expansion, and equitable treatment of 
family childcare providers and opportunities to improve parity 
with center-based childcare programs and to report to the 
Committee on the results of such study not later than 180 days 
after enactment of this Act.
    Food Preparation Impacts.--The Committee is concerned that 
some State food safety regulations inadvertently limit access 
to fresh fruits and vegetables in childcare settings. The 
Committee encourages the Secretary, in coordination with the 
Secretary of Agriculture, to develop a classification for low-
risk foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, that reflects 
the comparatively low risk of foodborne illness and other harms 
associated with foods typically consumed raw or with minimal 
processing. The Committee further encourages the Secretaries to 
review, and as appropriate update, relevant nutrition, food 
safety, and food preparation regulations and guidance that may 
favor prepackaged, ultra-processed foods, and to revise them to 
reflect such classification. The Committee also encourages the 
Departments to work with States to align their nutrition and 
food safety regulations with this approach so childcare 
providers can prepare fresh fruits and vegetables for children.
    Grant Administration and Oversight.--The Committee 
recognizes that efficient administration of CCDBG is essential 
to ensuring Federal resources reach the families who need them 
most. The Committee is concerned that oversight inefficiencies 
at the State level can produce administrative bottlenecks, 
delayed payments, and increased risks of waste, fraud, and 
abuse. The Committee encourages ACF to support States in 
modernizing their oversight systems to strengthen payment 
integrity and improve program outcomes. The Committee further 
encourages the Department to evaluate parent-directed benefit 
delivery models with built-in spending controls to improve 
accountability, transparency, and program integrity. The 
Committee requests a briefing within 90 days of enactment of 
this Act on the Department's efforts to address improper 
payments and fraud in federally funded childcare assistance 
programs.

                      SOCIAL SERVICES BLOCK GRANT

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $1,700,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     1,700,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     1,700,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Social Services Block Grant (SSBG) program provides 
formula grants to the 50 States, the District of Columbia, 
Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and 
the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. SSBG funding 
targets a broad set of goals, including reducing or eliminating 
poverty, achieving, or maintaining individual self-sufficiency, 
preventing or remedying neglect, abuse, or exploitation of 
children and adults, preventing or reducing inappropriate 
institutional care, and supporting institutional care, when 
appropriate.
    Family Resource Centers.--The Committee recognizes that 
Family Resource Centers provide direct assistance to families 
through parenting support and education, navigation of care and 
social services, mental health counseling, early learning and 
afterschool activities, family financial planning, and job 
training. The Committee supports States' investments in Family 
Resource Center services and programs at school and community-
based Family Resource Centers to strengthen families through a 
localized, family-centered approach. The Committee encourages 
HHS to evaluate how States are utilizing Federal funds to 
support FRC activities and to measure the outcomes of such 
investments.

                CHILDREN AND FAMILIES SERVICES PROGRAMS

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................   $14,923,390,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................    13,754,443,000
Committee Recommendation..............................    14,587,087,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -336,303,000
    Change from budget request........................      +832,654,000
 

    The Children and Families Services programs fund activities 
serving children, youth, families, the developmentally 
disabled, Native Americans, victims of child abuse and neglect 
and domestic violence, and other vulnerable populations.
    The Committee provides the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Programs for Children, Youth, and
 Families:
    Head Start....................    $12,356,820,000    $12,366,820,000
    Preschool Development Grants..        315,000,000              - - -
    Runaway and Homeless Youth            125,283,000        125,283,000
     Program......................
    Prevention Grants to Reduce            21,000,000         21,000,000
     Abuse of Runaway Youth.......
    Child Abuse State Grants......        105,091,000        107,091,000
    Child Abuse Discretionary              36,000,000         36,000,000
     Activities...................
    Community Based Child Abuse            70,660,000         70,660,000
     Prevention...................
    Child Welfare Services........        268,735,000        268,735,000
    Child Welfare Research,                21,984,000         21,984,000
     Training, and Demonstration..
    Adoption Opportunities........         53,000,000         55,000,000
    Adoption and Legal                     75,000,000         77,000,000
     Guardianship Incentive
     Payments.....................
    Social Services Research and           34,512,000         30,010,000
     Demonstration................
    Community Project Funding/             40,801,000              - - -
     Congressionally Directed
     Spending.....................
    Native American Programs......         63,500,000         65,500,000
    Community Services Block Grant
     Act Programs:
        Community Services Block          775,000,000        778,000,000
         Grant....................
        Community Economic                 22,383,000         23,383,000
         Development..............
        Rural Community Facilities         13,000,000         14,000,000
    National Domestic Violence             20,500,000         20,500,000
     Hotline......................
    Family Violence Prevention and        245,000,000        245,000,000
     Services.....................
    Chafee Education and Training          44,257,000         45,257,000
     Vouchers.....................
    Disaster Human Services Case            1,864,000          1,864,000
     Management...................
    Program Direction.............        214,000,000        214,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Head Start

    Head Start and Early Head Start (EHS) programs fund 
competitive grants to promote school readiness of children 
under 5 from low-income families through preschool services.
    Early Head Start.--The Committee continues to strongly 
support EHS and directs HHS to prioritize maintenance of 
current slots, and then expand slots where possible, including 
through Head Start to Early Head Start (HS2EHS) slot 
conversion, as determined by the needs of local communities. 
The Committee further directs the Department to maintain the 
EHS allocation of funds to at least the current proportion of 
funding within the overall Head Start appropriations, and to 
include in the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification the 
actual and estimated number of slots in each of Head Start, 
EHS, EHS Child Care Partnerships, and slots converted from 
HS2EHS.
    EHS Partnerships.--The Committee recognizes the growing 
interest of philanthropic organizations, individuals, and 
foundations in supporting high-quality early childhood 
education, including infant and toddler services delivered 
through EHS. The Committee urges ACF to strengthen EHS 
partnerships to enhance program integrity, expand access to 
high-quality services, strengthen the infant-toddler workforce, 
improve facilities, and enhance program quality. The Committee 
directs ACF to ensure that contributions supplement rather than 
supplant Federal funds; that donor participation does not 
influence grant awards, regulatory decisions, or procurement 
actions; and that funding decisions consider the extent of 
philanthropic investment in communities that are aligned with 
program goals. The Committee further directs the Department to 
make public on the agency website a report detailing amounts 
received, and purposes for which funds were used within one 
year of enactment of this Act.
    EHS Workforce.--The Committee requests a briefing within 
180 days of enactment of this Act on the agency's efforts to 
grow and strengthen the Early Head Start workforce, including 
opportunities to use alternative credentialing models to 
provide Head Start programs with greater hiring flexibility and 
to expand access for families.
    Head Start Facilities.--The Committee instructs ACF to 
complete the directives included under this heading in House 
Report 119-271 within 90 days of enactment of this Act.
    Head Start Minimum Enrollment Requirements.--The Committee 
recognizes that parents of children with disabilities often 
face barriers to accessing childcare and early education. The 
Committee requests a report on efforts to increase childcare 
slots for children with disabilities. The report should include 
current barriers, existing and proposed actions to expand 
access, and the potential impacts of increasing the Head Start 
minimum enrollment requirement for children with disabilities, 
including effects on program capacity, cost, implementation, 
and parental choice.
    Native Hawaiian Head Start Programs.--The Committee 
recognizes the Federal government's trust responsibility to the 
Native Hawaiian community and the importance of advancing 
opportunity through comprehensive early childhood education. 
The Committee encourages ACF to provide technical assistance to 
potential Native Hawaiian Head Start providers interested in 
applying for Head Start funding opportunities. Eligible 
providers should promote locally driven solutions and be 
focused on serving Native Hawaiian children and families, 
including programs that support Native Hawaiian language 
instruction where appropriate.
    Notice to Congressional Offices.--The Committee directs the 
agency to notify a congressional office if a current Head Start 
recipient in its congressional district will be required to re-
compete to continue its grant. The agency is directed to notify 
the office when the grant forecast for the recipient's service 
area and funding is published.
    Tribal Colleges and Universities Head Start Partnership 
Program.--The Committee includes $12,000,000 for the Tribal 
Colleges and Universities Head Start Partnership program, an 
increase of $2,000,000 above the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level.

Preschool Development Grants

    The Committee does not provide funding for the Preschool 
Development Grants (PDG) program. The Committee continues to 
prioritize funding for early learning and care programs through 
Head Start, Early Head Start, the Child Care and Development 
Block Grant (CCDBG) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families 
(TANF).

Runaway and Homeless Youth Program

    This program funds competitive grants to provide street 
outreach, emergency shelters, and longer-term transitional 
living programs to protect and provide supportive services to 
runaway and homeless youth.

Prevention Grants to Reduce Abuse of Runaway Youth

    This program funds competitive grants to nonprofit agencies 
for the purpose of providing street-based services to runaway, 
homeless, and street youth who have been subjected to, or are 
at risk of being subjected to sexual abuse, prostitution, human 
trafficking, sexual exploitation, or other forms of 
victimization. The Committee encourages the agency to continue 
the Runaway and Homeless Youth Prevention Demonstration 
Program, which has awarded funding to community-based 
organizations focused on prevention services for youth at risk 
of homelessness.

Child Abuse Prevention State Grants

    This program provides Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment 
Act formula grants to States to improve their child protective 
service systems.
    Within the total, the Committee continues to provide 
$60,000,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, to help States continue to develop and implement infant 
plans for safe care as directed in Senate Report 119-55.

Child Abuse Discretionary Activities

    This funding supports a variety of competitive grants, 
including research and demonstration projects on the causes, 
prevention, identification, assessment and treatment of child 
abuse and neglect, the development and implementation of 
evidence-based training programs, and technical assistance to 
grantees and communities through national resource centers and 
the Child Welfare Information Gateway.
    Child Abuse Hotline.--The Committee supports ongoing 
efforts to address and support youth and families impacted by 
child abuse and neglect. Within the total, the Committee 
continues to provide $2,000,000, which is the same as the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level, for broad, ongoing support for 
the existing national child abuse hotline in order to provide 
resources and intervention through multiple modalities, 
including chat, text, and call, to respond to the urgent needs 
of youth and concerned adults facing these challenges.

Community Based Child Abuse Prevention

    This program provides formula grants to States that then 
disburse funds to local community-based organizations to 
improve local child abuse prevention and treatment efforts.

Child Welfare Services

    This program funds formula grants to State and Tribal child 
welfare programs for research, monitoring, and special 
initiatives to promote positive outcomes for children and 
families involved in child welfare.

Child Welfare Research, Training, and Demonstration Projects

    This program funds competitive grants to entities that 
prepare personnel for work in the child welfare field and those 
engaged in research around child welfare issues.
    Incarcerated Parent Demonstration Project.--The Committee 
recognizes that children of incarcerated parents can experience 
negative health and developmental outcomes due to parental 
separation. Contact with a birth parent can help mitigate these 
effects for both foster youth and children of incarcerated 
parents. The Committee encourages ACF to award State and Tribal 
partnership demonstration grants, as authorized by P.L. 118-
679, to maintain meaningful relationships between foster youth 
and their incarcerated parents when doing so is safe and in the 
best interest of the child. The Committee requests the agency 
provide an update in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification on efforts to establish this demonstration 
project.
    Strengthening State Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) 
Compliance.--The Committee recognizes the important role State 
child welfare agencies play in ensuring the safety of Indian 
children who come into contact with the State child welfare 
system. The Committee appreciates the work of the Children's 
Bureau and the Tribal Engagement Team to support State 
compliance with ICWA through technical assistance and through 
grants to develop strong working relationships between States 
and Tribes. The Committee encourages continued staffing of this 
team to ensure the ability to fulfill trust obligations to 
Native children and families. The Committee continues to 
provide $3,000,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level, for State-Tribal partnership grants to build 
collaborations between States and Tribes to better address the 
ongoing challenges Tribal communities face.

Adoption Opportunities

    This program funds competitive grants and contracts to 
public and private organizations to remove barriers to adoption 
and to provide permanent homes for children who would benefit 
from adoption.
    Adoption Agencies.--The Committee encourages HHS to 
maintain a public list of licensed adoption agencies so that 
birth mothers can make decisions based on verified and 
trustworthy information. The list of agencies should include 
adoption agencies with current State licenses who are in good 
standing with the State.
    Adoption-Sensitive Care Training.--The Committee continues 
to provide $1,000,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 
2026 enacted level, for a competitive grant program to improve 
access to adoption-sensitive care training for eligible 
hospital staff as directed in the explanatory statement that 
accompanied Division D of P.L. 118-47. The Committee encourages 
the Department to provide grantees with resources that focus on 
understanding the sensitivities regarding adoption in the 
health care industry and the best practices for interacting 
with prospective birth mothers and adoptive families, including 
the use of non-directive education for expectant parents 
considering adoption, parenting, and kinship care. Eligible 
grantees should not provide or refer for abortion.
    Family First Prevention Services Clearinghouse.--The 
Committee continues to direct not less than $2,000,000, which 
is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level, for the 
evaluation of programs to support adoption arrangements at risk 
of a disruption or dissolution, as directed in Senate Report 
118-84.
    National Adoption Competency Mental Health Training 
Initiative (NTI).--The Committee continues to provide 
$3,000,000 for the National Adoption Competency Mental Health 
Training Initiative, which is a $1,000,000 increase above the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level. The NTI provides free, web-
based training for child welfare and mental health 
professionals to develop the skills needed to support foster, 
adoptive, and kinship families. The Committee acknowledges 
these special populations often face barriers to obtaining 
quality mental health services, which adversely impacts 
permanency and well-being outcomes.
    National Training and Development Curriculum (NTDC).--The 
Committee continues to provide $1,000,000, which is the same as 
the fiscal year 2026 enacted level, for the NTDC as directed in 
the explanatory statement that accompanied Division D of P.L. 
118-47.
    Support for Birth Parents.--The Committee recognizes that 
birth parents who voluntarily place their children for adoption 
often benefit from post-adoption counseling, support, and 
resources. Therefore, the Committee provides $1,000,000 for a 
demonstration program to provide support groups, resources, and 
services to birth parents. Eligible grantees should be 
adoption-focused, nonprofit organizations with experience 
working with parents who have placed their children for private 
domestic adoption. The Committee instructs ACF to complete the 
directives under this heading in House Report 119-271.

Adoption and Legal Guardianship Incentive Payments

    This program provides formula-based incentive payments to 
States to encourage them to increase the number of adoptions of 
children from the foster care system.
    Improving Foster Youth Outcomes.--The Committee is 
concerned that national data on maltreatment of children 
adopted from foster care are insufficient. Although Federal 
data systems collect maltreatment, foster care and adoption 
information, inconsistent State identifiers and limited linkage 
capacity prevent reliable longitudinal tracking and monitoring 
of children who exit foster care to adoption. To improve pre- 
and post-adoption supports, the Committee directs the 
Department to provide technical assistance to States to build 
linkage and analytic capacity, including establishing data-
quality standards and routine quality checks for linkages 
between the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System 
(NCANDS) and Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting 
System (AFCARS) systems. The Committee further directs the 
Department to explore incentive funding mechanisms to support 
States that submit high-quality, linkable data. The Committee 
requests a briefing on these efforts within 180 days of 
enactment of this Act.

Social Services Research and Demonstration

    The Social Services Research and Demonstration funds 
research, evaluation, and demonstration efforts that focus on 
preventing and reducing dependency on government programs and 
improving the administration and effectiveness of services for 
children and families.
    Diaper Distribution Demonstration and Research Pilot 
(DDRP).--Within the total, the Committee continues to provide 
$20,000,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, for the DDRP. The pilot helps address diaper needs and 
supports economic mobility for low-income families. The 
Committee encourages ACF to continue funding grants and to 
support program evaluation activities, including the release of 
the final DDRP evaluation report.
    Affordable Housing and Supportive Services Demonstration.--
Within the total, the Committee continues to provide 
$2,500,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, for grants to Community Action Agencies and Tribes that 
own affordable housing for the purpose of connecting residents 
to support services that improve housing stability, economic 
mobility and well-being.
    Medical Legal Partnerships.--Within the total, the 
Committee continues to provide $2,000,000, which is the same as 
the fiscal year 2026 enacted level, for the Medical Legal 
Partnerships program.

Native American Programs

    These programs fund competitive grants to assist Tribal 
governments and Native American institutions and organizations 
in their efforts to support and develop stable, diversified 
local economies. Tribes and nonprofit organizations use funds 
to develop and implement sustainable community based social and 
economic programs and services to improve the wellbeing of 
Native people.
    Within the total, the Committee provides $16,000,000 for 
Native American language preservation activities, including no 
less than $7,000,000 for language immersion programs as 
authorized by section 803C(b)(7)(A)-(C) of the Native American 
Programs Act, as amended by the Esther Martinez Native American 
Language Preservation Act of 2006.
    The Committee is aware of concerns about the recent 
proposal to replace the Social and Economic Development 
Strategies (SEDS) and SEDS-Alaska (SEDS-AK) grants with new 
programs, in particular that the proposed programs would focus 
on a narrower set of priority areas and shift from the 
historical model in SEDS and SEDS-AK that has allowed grantees 
to tailor their project priorities and designs based on locally 
identified needs. As part of future programmatic decisions, the 
Committee encourages ACF to ensure engagement with interested 
stakeholders, to ensure program funding continues to advance 
the economic and community development goals of Tribal Nations 
and other Native organizations.

Community Services Block Grant Act Programs

    The Community Services Block Grant is a program that 
provides formula grants to States, territories, and Tribes to 
alleviate the causes and conditions of poverty in communities.
    Community Economic Development.--Community Economic 
Development is a competitive grant program which funds 
Community Development Corporations seeking to address the 
economic needs of low-income individuals and families through 
the creation of sustainable business development and employment 
opportunities.
    Rural Community Facilities.--The Rural Community 
Development competitive grant program partners with regional 
and Tribal organizations to support safe water systems in rural 
communities. Under the program's technical assistance 
authority, grant recipients help residents in unserved and 
underserved populations, including isolated unincorporated 
communities, small low-income communities that cannot afford 
loan or grant financing, and communities without central 
systems that are therefore not covered by the Clean Water Act 
of the Safe Drinking Water Act.
    The Committee recognizes the critical role that access to 
clean, affordable water services plays in promoting public 
health. The Committee requests an update in the fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification on the agency's efforts to 
support and expand access to safe and affordable drinking 
water, wastewater, and other water services in rural, low-
income, and underserved communities.

National Domestic Violence Hotline

    The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides free and 
confidential 24-hour, toll-free telephone, chat and text 
services immediately connecting callers to local service 
providers.
    The Committee encourages ACF to continue building the 
Hotline's capacity and to support investments in technology 
infrastructure and staffing to ensure a timely response to 
requests for help.
    Religious Communities.--Individuals in religious 
communities experience unique challenges in assessing 
appropriate domestic violence resources and support. The 
Committee provides $250,000 for the domestic violence hotline 
to evaluate and expand its list of resources for contacts from 
religious communities.

Family Violence Prevention and Services

    The Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA) 
program provides funding to support the prevention of incidents 
of family violence, domestic violence, and dating violence, and 
provide immediate shelter and supportive services for adult and 
youth victims.
    The Committee recognizes that all forms of domestic 
violence are strongly associated with poor mental health 
outcomes and substance abuse. The Committee encourages ACF to 
fund domestic violence prevention programs that support 
individuals with co-occurring health conditions linked to 
domestic violence while ensuring families remain together 
through recovery and the best interests of children exposed to 
violence in the home are prioritized.
    Within the total, the Committee provides $9,500,000 for 
supporting Native American Tribes and Tribal organizations, 
which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level, to 
fund immediate shelter and supportive services for survivors of 
domestic violence and their dependents.
    Within the total, the Committee provides $2,000,000 for the 
Native Hawaiian Resource Center on Domestic Violence program, 
which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level, to 
continue providing technical assistance, services and supports 
for Native Hawaiian adults, children and youth experiencing 
domestic violence.
    Addressing Domestic Violence in Religious Communities.--The 
Committee recognizes the unique challenges individuals in 
religious communities--particularly those underserved because 
of their religious beliefs--face in accessing appropriate 
domestic violence services and supports. The Committee supports 
the work of FVPSA Resource Centers to improve outreach to 
faith-based communities and encourages the Centers to continue 
expanding efforts to reach and serve those communities, 
especially underserved populations. The Committee requests an 
update in the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification on 
FVPSA activities serving the needs of religious communities.

Chaffee Education and Training Vouchers

    This program funds formula grants to States to provide 
vouchers to youth who are, or were formerly, in foster care for 
expenses related to post-secondary education assistance, and 
vocational training.

Disaster Human Services Case Management

    This funding supports work at HHS addressing human service 
preparation for, response to, and recovery from, natural 
disasters.

Program Direction

    This funding supports Federal administrative costs 
associated with administering the agency's programs.
    International Surrogacy.--The Committee understands 
concerns regarding the risks that may be posed by international 
surrogacy contracts, in which foreign nationals contract with 
an American surrogate for the purposes of having a child with 
U.S. citizenship, a passport, birth certificate, Social 
Security Number, and educational benefits, even if the child 
may be raised in another country with the foreign intended 
parent. Such concerns include the exploitation of citizenship 
processes, vulnerable women, and the children, as well as 
potential national security risks. The Committee urges HHS to 
coordinate with State-level health departments to report and 
track, where possible, the total number of such contracts and 
births, especially those where the child is born via commercial 
surrogacy with the foreign national listed as the intended 
parent(s). Privacy protections may remain in place as States 
report on the number of contracts, country of origin, and live 
births. The Committee further supports efforts by GAO to review 
the legal, ethical, and public health implications of 
international commercial surrogacy arrangements involving 
United States citizens, including potential risks related to 
exploitation of the commercial surrogate, trafficking of the 
resulting children, and citizenship documentation or fraud 
through green card applications or other benefits. The 
Committee urges HHS, in consultation with the Departments of 
State and Homeland Security, to the extent practicable, to 
provide a report within 180 days of enactment of this Act, 
describing the prevalence of international commercial surrogacy 
arrangements involving U.S. citizens, including the countries 
where such arrangements most frequently occur, the number of 
contracts entered into between foreign nationals and U.S. 
surrogacy agencies and/or surrogates, the number of children 
born in the U.S. through these arrangements, and any associated 
legal or regulatory challenges.
    Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Education 
and Workforce Training.--The Committee recognizes State efforts 
to use TANF funds for education and workforce training programs 
that target at-risk primary and secondary students who are one 
or more grades behind. Academic performance is a critical 
determinant of future success and can influence whether 
students continue to need Federal assistance into adulthood. 
The Committee directs the Department to submit a report within 
180 days of enactment of this Act detailing how States are 
using TANF funds to support education and workforce preparation 
initiatives focused on at-risk primary and secondary students. 
The report should include an overview of TANF-supported State 
programs that implement early-intervention strategies, learning 
and employment outcomes associated with those programs, and the 
programs' impact on long-term reliance on Federal assistance.

                PAYMENTS FOR FOSTER CARE AND PERMANENCY

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $6,843,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     6,617,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     6,617,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -226,000,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Committee also provides an advance appropriation of 
$4,000,000,000 for the first quarter of fiscal year 2028 to 
ensure timely completion of first-quarter grant awards.
    Within the total, the Committee provides $5,142,000,000 for 
the Foster Care program. This mandatory program provides funds 
to States for foster care maintenance payments for children 
living in foster care. These funds also reimburse States for 
administrative costs to manage the program and training for 
staff and parents.
    Within the total, the Committee provides $4,485,000,000 for 
Adoption Assistance. This mandatory program provides funds to 
States to subsidize families who adopt children with special 
needs, such as older children, a member of a minority or 
sibling group, or children with physical, mental, and emotional 
disabilities. In addition, the program provides training for 
adoptive parents and State administrative staff. This annually 
appropriated entitlement provides alternatives to long, 
inappropriate stays in foster care by developing permanent 
placements with families.
    Within the total, the Committee provides $418,000,000 for 
the Kinship Guardianship Assistance program. This mandatory 
program provides subsidies to a relative taking legal 
guardianship of a child for whom being returned home, or 
adoption, are not appropriate permanency options.
    Finally, within the total, the Committee provides 
$143,000,000 for the Independent Living program. This mandatory 
program assists foster children age 16 or older make successful 
transitions to independence. Funds support a variety of 
services, including educational assistance, career exploration, 
vocational training, job placement, life skills training, home 
management, health services, substance abuse prevention, 
preventive health activities, and room and board. Each State 
receives funds based on the number of children on whose behalf 
the State receives Federal Foster Care Payments.

                  Administration for Community Living


                 AGING AND DISABILITY SERVICES PROGRAMS

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $2,536,679,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     2,454,100,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     2,522,711,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -13,968,000
    Change from budget request........................       +68,611,000
 

    The Administration for Community Living (ACL) increases 
access to community support for older Americans and people with 
disabilities. It is charged with administering programs 
authorized under the Older Americans Act of 1965 (OAA) and the 
Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 
2000. ACL was established to create opportunities for older 
adults and people with disabilities to live and engage in their 
communities by removing obstacles that limit people's choices 
and ability to participate in community living.
    The Committee continues to fund the Senior Medicare Patrol 
Program through the Health Care Fraud and Abuse Control Account 
under CMS.

Home and Community-Based Supportive Services

    The Committee includes $414,000,000 for Home and Community-
Based Supportive Services, which is equal to the fiscal year 
2026 enacted level. This program provides formula grants to 
States and territories to fund a wide range of social services 
that enable seniors to remain independent in their homes for as 
long as possible.

Preventive Health Services

    The Committee includes $26,339,000 for Preventive Health 
Services, which is equal to the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. 
This program funds formula grants to States to help seniors 
remain healthy and avoid chronic diseases. Funding supports a 
variety of healthy aging programs designed to reduce disease 
and prevent injuries, including evidence-based programs to 
address the risk of falls, chronic diseases, mental health, and 
medication management.

Protection of Vulnerable Older Americans

    The Committee includes $28,000,000 for activities to 
protect vulnerable older Americans. These programs provide 
formula grants to States for protection of vulnerable older 
Americans through the Long-Term Care Ombudsman and Prevention 
of Elder Abuse and Neglect programs.
    Long-Term Care Ombudsman.--Within the total provided for 
Protection of Vulnerable Older Americans, the Committee 
includes $23,000,000 for the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program. 
This program works to improve the quality of life and care for 
individuals who reside in long-term care facilities. Ombudsmen 
work to ensure residents understand their care options and that 
strong beneficiary support systems are in place in all 
settings.

Family Caregivers

    The Committee provides $209,000,000 for the National 
Caregiver Support program, which is the same as the fiscal year 
2026 enacted level. This program offers a range of support 
services to family caregivers, including assistance in 
accessing services such as respite care, counseling, support 
groups, and caregiver training.

Native American Caregivers Support

    The Committee provides $16,000,000 for the Native American 
Caregivers Support program. This program provides formula 
grants to Tribes for the support of American Indian, Alaskan 
Native, and Native Hawaiian families caring for older relatives 
with chronic illness or disabilities.

Nutrition

    The Committee provides a total of $1,061,684,000 for senior 
nutrition programs. This is a $3,000,000 increase over the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level. Additional funding for this 
population is also available from the Department of 
Agriculture. Within the total, the Committee includes 
$566,342,000 for Congregate Meals, $382,342,000 for Home 
Delivered Meals, and $113,000,000 for the Nutrition Services 
Incentives program. These programs provide older Americans with 
meals and related services in a variety of settings (including 
congregate facilities such as senior centers) and via home 
delivery to older adults who are homebound due to illness, 
disability, or geographic isolation.
    Food is Medicine.--The Committee encourages ACL to 
incorporate and prioritize Food is Medicine goals in OAA 
Nutrition grant recipients' programming with the goal of 
integrating infrastructure capacity building and directing 
service nutrition interventions to support rural-dwelling 
adults age 60 and over who are in the greatest economic and 
social need.

Grants for Native Americans

    The Committee includes $42,264,000 for Native American 
Nutrition and Supportive Services. This program provides 
formula grants to Tribes to promote the delivery of nutrition 
and home and community-based supportive services to Native 
American, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian elders.

Aging Network Support Activities

    The Committee includes $33,461,000 for Aging Network 
Support Activities. This program supports activities that 
expand public understanding of aging and the aging process.
    Holocaust Survivor Assistance Program.--Within the total 
provided for Aging Network Support Activities, the Committee 
includes $10,000,000 for the Holocaust Survivor Assistance 
program. This program provides supportive services for aging 
Holocaust survivors living in the U.S. The Committee recognizes 
the program's success in serving nearly 44,000 Holocaust 
survivors, more than 8,000 older adults with a history of 
trauma, and over 7,000 family caregivers.
    Care Corps.--Within the total provided for Aging Network 
Support Activities, the Committee includes $7,000,000 for the 
Care Corps volunteer program to support non-medical services 
for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and family 
caregivers. These include respite care, transportation, meal 
preparation, minor home cleaning and modifications, education, 
caring calls/visits, and training. The Committee recognizes the 
success of local programs that are increasing seniors' access 
to non-emergency medical services by offering transportation 
with trained volunteers to serve as aides and advocates for 
those with accessibility challenges. Within the total provided 
for Care Corps, the Committee includes $3,000,000 for older 
adult transportation and chaperone services, of which not less 
than $500,000 shall be available for the purposes of developing 
a national training program to increase the reach of such 
volunteer services. Funds may be used for purposes including 
developing training and competency frameworks, data collection 
and evaluation frameworks, providing workforce development 
support, and offering technical and operational assistance to 
expand this volunteer model.
    Direct Care Workforce Demo.--Within the total provided for 
Aging Network Support Activities, the Committee continues 
$2,000,000 for the Direct Care Workforce Demonstration Project.
    Interagency Coordinating Committee on Healthy Aging and 
Age-Friendly Communities.--Within the total provided for Aging 
Network Support Activities, the Committee includes $1,000,000 
for the coordination of healthy aging programs across HHS, the 
Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Department of 
Transportation, and other related agencies, with a focus on 
falls prevention programs and safe living environments for 
seniors.
    Research, Demonstration, and Evaluation Center for the 
Aging Network.--Within the total provided for Aging Network 
Support Activities, the Committee continues $5,000,000 for the 
Research, Demonstration, and Evaluation Center for the Aging 
Network. The center researches best practices in the field of 
falls prevention, awards competitive grants to Aging Network 
entities to implement best practices, and evaluates new and 
ongoing falls prevention programs.

Alzheimer's Disease Program

    The Committee includes $31,500,000 for the Alzheimer's 
disease program, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level. This program provides competitive matching 
grants to a limited number of States to encourage program 
innovation and coordination of public and private services for 
people with Alzheimer's disease and their families. Of the 
funds provided, $14,700,000 shall be transferred from the PPHF.
    National Alzheimer's Call Center.--Within the total 
provided for the Alzheimer's Disease Program, the Committee 
includes not less than $2,000,000 for the National Alzheimer's 
Call Center.
    Younger-Onset Dementias With Behavioral Symptoms.--The 
Committee is concerned that individuals living with younger-
onset dementia with behavioral symptoms, including 
frontotemporal degeneration (FTD), frequently lack access to 
appropriate long-term services and supports and are at 
heightened risk of involuntary discharge from long-term care 
facilities due to behavioral symptoms. Inconsistent placement 
practices, inadequate staff training, and limited crisis 
response capacity contribute to avoidable hospitalizations, 
caregiver burnout, and poor outcomes. The Committee encourages 
ACL, in consultation with other relevant agencies, to develop 
and publicly disseminate a best practices toolkit to support 
dementia-capable systems of care for individuals with younger-
onset dementia with behavioral symptoms. The toolkit should 
address facility readiness, workforce competencies, and non-
pharmacologic approaches to managing behavioral symptoms; 
caregiver education, respite, and support services; and crisis 
prevention, de-escalation, and response pathways designed to 
reduce emergency department utilization, law enforcement 
involvement, and involuntary discharges.

Lifespan Respite Care

    The Committee includes $11,000,000 for Respite Care, which 
is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. The program 
funds competitive grants to ease the burdens of caregiving by 
providing grants to eligible State organizations to improve the 
quality of, and access to, respite care for family caregivers.

Chronic Disease Self-Management Program

    The Committee includes $8,000,000 from the PPHF for the 
Chronic Disease Self-Management program, which is the same as 
the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. This program funds 
competitive grants and cooperative agreements to support 
evidence-based prevention models that use state of the art 
techniques to help those with chronic conditions address issues 
related to the management of their disease.

Elder Falls Prevention

    The Committee includes $7,500,000 for the Falls Prevention 
program, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level. Falls prevention competitive grants and cooperative 
agreements support the promotion and dissemination of 
prevention tools delivered in community settings. Of the funds 
provided, $5,000,000 shall be transferred from the PPHF.

Elder Rights Support Activities

    The Committee includes $34,005,000 for Elder Rights Support 
Activities, which is a $131,000 increase above the fiscal year 
2026 enacted program level. These programs support efforts that 
provide information, training, and technical assistance to 
legal and aging services organizations working to prevent and 
detect elder abuse and neglect.

Aging and Disability Resource Centers

    The Committee includes $8,619,000 for Aging and Disability 
Resource Centers (ADRCs), which is the same as the fiscal year 
2026 enacted level. These centers provide information, 
counseling, and access for individuals to learn about the 
services and support options available to seniors and the 
disabled so they may retain their independence.

State Health Insurance Assistance Program

    The Committee includes $55,242,000 for the State Health 
Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), which is the same as the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level. SHIP offers one-on-one 
assistance, counseling, and education to Medicare 
beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers to help them make 
informed decisions about their care and benefits.

Paralysis Resource Center

    The Committee provides $10,700,000 for the Paralysis 
Resource Center, which is the same as fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level. The Paralysis Resource Center offers activities and 
services aimed at increasing independent living for people with 
paralysis and related mobility impairments and supporting 
integration into the physical and cultural communities in which 
they live.

Limb Loss Resource Center

    The Committee provides $5,000,000 for the Limb Loss 
Resource Center, a critical national resource for individuals 
living with limb loss and limb difference, as well as for the 
clinicians and caregivers who support them. The Center plays a 
critical role in improving rehabilitation outcomes and ensuring 
access to evidence-based information, peer support, workforce 
training, and provider education across the country. Given the 
growing prevalence of limb loss due to diabetes, peripheral 
artery disease, trauma, and cancer, the Committee encourages 
ACL to continue prioritizing Center activities and expand 
efforts to provide care coordination and mental health 
programs, address disparities in access to limb preservation 
and prosthetic care, and strengthen outreach to rural and 
underserved communities. Early investment in these services 
reduces long-term healthcare and social services expenditures 
by supporting workforce participation, decreasing preventable 
complications, and helping individuals avoid reliance on safety 
net programs.

Traumatic Brain Injury

    The Committee provides $13,118,000 for the Traumatic Brain 
Injury program, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level. The program provides grants to States for the 
development of a comprehensive, coordinated family and person-
centered service system at the State and community level for 
individuals who sustain a traumatic brain injury.

Developmental Disabilities State Councils

    The Committee provides $81,000,000 for State Councils on 
Developmental Disabilities, which is the same as the fiscal 
year 2026 enacted level. This program provides formula grants 
to States and territories to support State Councils, which work 
to develop, improve, and expand the system of services and 
supports for people with intellectual and developmental 
disabilities.
    Technical Assistance.--Within the total provided for 
Developmental Disabilities State Councils, the Committee 
provides not less than $800,000 for technical assistance and 
training for the State Councils on Developmental Disabilities.

Developmental Disabilities Protection and Advocacy

    The Committee provides $45,000,000 for Developmental 
Disabilities Protection and Advocacy, which is the same as the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level. This formula grant program 
provides funding to States to establish and maintain protection 
and advocacy systems to protect the legal rights of persons 
with developmental disabilities.
    The Committee notes that the Supreme Court decision in 
Olmstead v. L.C. (1999) held that the Americans with 
Disabilities Act (ADA) does not require removing individuals 
from institutional settings when they are unable to handle or 
benefit from a community-based setting and that the ADA does 
not require the imposition of community-based treatment on 
individuals who do not desire it. The Committee notes that 
actions to undermine and close intermediate care facilities for 
individuals with intellectual disabilities may impact some 
individuals who do not meet the criteria for transfer to a 
community-based setting. The Committee encourages HHS to ensure 
that programs properly account for the needs and desires of 
individuals with disabilities, their families, legal 
representatives and caregivers, and the importance of affording 
individuals the proper setting for their care. The Committee 
further encourages the Department to prohibit an eligible 
protection and advocacy system to use funds under this heading 
to institute class action litigation against an intermediate 
care facility in good standing with licensure requirements.
    The Committee recognizes that the ADA encourages States to 
administer services for people with Intellectual and 
Developmental Disabilities (IDDs) in the most integrated 
setting appropriate to the needs of qualified individuals with 
IDDs. Further, the Committee understands that while center-
based work is not appropriate for every individual with a 
disability, center-based adult work programs chosen by 
individuals with severe IDDs and their families remain a viable 
choice that can provide dignity and purpose for a significant 
percentage of the IDD population. These work and service 
settings have been determined to be rewarding and appropriate 
by the individuals and family members directly involved in the 
decision-making process, and the Committee is concerned that 
some organizations receiving funding under the Developmental 
Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act have targeted 
these settings for closure. The Committee encourages ACL to 
encourage stakeholders to coordinate to ensure that individuals 
with IDDs appropriately suited to participate in center-based 
work programs are not deprived of the opportunity to do so.

Developmental Disabilities Voting Access for Individuals with 
        Disabilities

    The Committee provides $10,000,000 for Voting Access for 
Individuals with Disabilities program, which is the same as the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level. The Voting Access for 
Individuals with Disabilities program authorized by the Help 
America Vote Act provides formula grants to States to help 
ensure full participation in the electoral process for 
individuals with disabilities, including registering to vote, 
accessing polling places, and casting a vote.

Developmental Disabilities Projects of National Significance

    The Committee provides $12,250,000 for Developmental 
Disabilities Projects of National Significance, which is the 
same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. This program funds 
grants and contracts that develop new technologies and 
demonstrate innovative methods to support the independence, 
productivity, and integration of those living with a disability 
into the community.

University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities

    The Committee provides $43,119,000 for University Centers 
for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD), which is 
the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. UCEDDs are a 
nationwide network of independent but interlinked centers, 
funded via competitive grants, representing a national resource 
for addressing issues, finding solutions, and advancing 
research related to the needs of individuals with developmental 
disabilities and their families. The funding also supports 
technical assistance to strengthen and support the national 
network of UCEDDs as they disseminate research, training, and 
practices nationwide.

Independent Living

    The Committee provides $130,183,000 for the Independent 
Living program. The Independent Living program funds grants to 
maximize the leadership, empowerment, independence, and 
productivity of individuals with disabilities.

National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and 
        Rehabilitation Research

    The Committee provides $100,000,000 for the National 
Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation 
Research (NIDILRR), which is equal to the fiscal year 2026 
budget request. NIDILRR funds research and development of new 
innovative technological devices, prototypes, measurement 
tools, and interventions to help people with disabilities live 
more independently.

Assistive Technology

    The Committee provides $42,000,000 for Assistive Technology 
(AT). AT supports programs providing formula grants to States 
to support individuals with disabilities of all ages to obtain 
devices and services that will increase, maintain, or improve 
their functional capabilities. With the reauthorization of the 
21st Century Assistive Technology Act, the Committee supports 
implementation to meet the increased demand for access to 
assistive technology for people with disabilities and older 
adults. The goal is to increase awareness of and access to AT 
devices and services that may help with education, employment, 
daily activities, and inclusion of people with disabilities in 
their communities.
    Aging and Disability Technology Innovation.--The Committee 
recognizes the growing demands placed on family caregivers and 
the workforce shortages affecting long-term care services and 
supports. The Committee strongly encourages ACL to evaluate and 
promote the use of innovative technologies that reduce 
caregiver burden, support independent living, and enable older 
adults and individuals with disabilities to safely age in 
place. The Committee urges ACL to work with public and private 
partners to identify scalable technology solutions, including 
assistive technologies such as assistive robotics platforms, 
and digital care coordination tools that can improve care 
delivery efficiency while helping address healthcare workforce 
constraints. ACL is encouraged to incorporate technology 
adoption and best practices into existing aging network 
programs. The Committee requests an update on opportunities to 
accelerate deployment of evidence-based technology solutions 
that support caregivers and strengthen home-and community-based 
care in the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification.

Program Administration

    The Committee provides $43,727,000 for Program 
Administration. This funding supports Federal administrative 
costs associated with administering ACL's programs for older 
Americans and people with disabilities.

         Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response


 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $3,692,597,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     3,337,069,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     3,648,597,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -44,000,000
    Change from budget request........................      +311,528,000
 

    This account supports the activities of the Administration 
for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) to prevent, 
prepare for, and respond to the health consequences of 
chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats 
and other public health emergencies, including pandemic 
influenza. ASPR is responsible for coordinating national 
policies and plans for medical and public health preparedness 
and for administering a variety of public health preparedness 
programs.
    The Committee first funded ASPR as an operating division 
during the Fiscal Year 2024 budget cycle. The Committee 
consolidated the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development 
Authority (BARDA), Project BioShield, the associated Special 
Reserve Fund, and the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) into a 
single Treasury account to better ensure a seamless transition 
of medical countermeasures (MCMs) from development to 
production and procurement, and provide the strongest possible 
response to natural and manmade threats.
    The Committee encourages HHS to continue recognizing the 
significance of ASPR's work in combating CBRN threats and to 
support all preparedness and response efforts to address those 
threats. The Committee emphasizes the importance of maintaining 
the SNS, BARDA, Project BioShield, and the Special Reserve Fund 
within ASPR's independent operating structure.
    ASPR is uniquely positioned to support continued investment 
in biomanufacturing and the onshoring of the MCM supply chain, 
which are essential to ensuring the health and security of the 
American public. To that end, the Committee includes provisions 
designed to support domestic manufacturing of active 
pharmaceutical ingredients, antibiotics, diagnostics, essential 
medicines, medical devices, personal protective equipment, and 
other pharmaceutical products critical to maintaining MCM 
capacity. The Committee also includes a new provision 
prohibiting ASPR, and the SNS in particular, from purchasing 
MCMs, goods, or services from China or China-owned companies 
unless such items or services are otherwise unavailable.
    ASPR Preparedness and Response Activities.--The Committee 
directs ASPR, not later than 180 days after enactment of this 
Act, to submit to the appropriate authorizing and 
appropriations committees a report on the state of pandemic 
preparedness, response, research, and development. The report 
shall: (1) describe current activities across HHS agencies, 
including agency-specific roles and examples of research and 
development activities; (2) identify gaps and unmet needs 
across the research continuum, including basic research, 
diagnostics, therapeutics, vaccines, and health services 
research; and (3) recommend opportunities to strengthen 
coordination, reduce duplication, and address identified gaps 
to enhance national readiness.
    Domestic Manufacturing of Essential Medicines and Medical 
Countermeasures.--The Committee appreciates ASPR taking steps 
to restore capacity for domestic production of essential 
pharmaceutical products, in addition to ASPR's efforts to 
expand domestic manufacturing infrastructure for MCMs. The 
Committee encourages ASPR to continue to prioritize the use of 
existing domestic manufacturing capacity, in addition to 
pursuing investments that enhance domestic medical 
countermeasure manufacturing capabilities. The Committee 
directs ASPR, in coordination with other relevant partners, to 
assess opportunities to leverage idle or underutilized U.S.-
based manufacturing infrastructure in ways that would address 
gaps in the public health supply chain, promote warm-based 
surge capacity, and reduce our reliance on foreign-based 
manufacturing. The assessment should also include updates on 
ASPR's domestic onshoring efforts related to antibiotics, 
biologic drug-delivery systems, medical devices, active 
pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), key starting materials 
(KSMs), and nitrile examination gloves noted in this section of 
the report. Within 270 days of enactment of this Act, the 
Committee directs ASPR to issue a report on the findings of 
this assessment to the Committee on Appropriations and the 
Committee on Energy and Commerce.
    Domestic Antibiotic Manufacturing.--The Committee 
recognizes the need to strengthen the domestic pharmaceutical 
industrial base and mitigate risks to the U.S. pharmaceutical 
supply chain, which is heavily reliant on foreign suppliers for 
critical drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients, including 
generic antibiotics. Therefore, the Committee urges the 
Department, in coordination with DOD, to jointly implement a 
plan to onshore the end-to-end supply chain for the 
biomanufacturing of fermentation-based essential antibiotics to 
ensure necessary domestic manufacturing capacity.
    Domestic Manufacturing of Biologic Drug-Delivery Systems.--
The Committee recognizes the importance of expanding U.S. 
capacity for high-quality biologic drug-delivery components, 
including pre-fillable syringes, drug-delivery systems, self-
administered injectable therapies, wearable injectors, and 
other device-drug platforms that support the shift from 
infusion-based care to subcutaneous and at-home treatment. The 
Committee also recognizes that strengthening domestic 
production of these components will advance patient access to 
critical therapies, reduce strain on healthcare facilities, and 
bolster U.S. supply-chain resilience. Therefore, the Committee 
encourages ASPR to work with drug-delivery manufacturers and 
biopharmaceutical partners to reduce reliance on foreign 
sources and support continued innovation. The Committee further 
encourages ASPR to support supply-chain redundancy and surge 
readiness for critical drug-delivery components to ensure 
consistent availability during periods of increased demand or 
public-health emergencies.
    Domestic Manufacturing of Medical Devices.--The Committee 
supported BARDA's investments to accelerate the expansion of 
domestic manufacturing capacity for ancillary supplies like 
needles and syringes during the COVID pandemic. However, to 
continue to ensure Americans have access to essential medical 
devices, the Committee encourages a more concerted effort to 
shore up domestic production and the U.S. supply chain. The 
Committee urges ASPR to advance programs and policies that 
preserve and protect U.S. based manufacturing for essential 
medical devices.
    Domestic Medicine & Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient 
Manufacturing.--The Committee is concerned with the national 
security risk of our reliance on foreign-based sources of APIs, 
their KSMs, and offshore drug production. The Committee 
recognizes the importance of domestic drug manufacturing and 
onshore production of medicine to support increased U.S.-based 
manufacturing capabilities. The Committee acknowledges the 
impact of weather events on U.S.-based manufacturing 
capabilities and encourages intentional efforts to vary 
manufacturing locations for active pharmaceutical ingredients, 
including their chemical precursors. The successful work of 
BARDA in addressing public health vulnerabilities and securing 
a national stockpile of drugs has unique potential to consider 
program expansion to include at-risk drug ingredients. The 
Committee encourages ASPR to engage in public-private 
partnerships for U.S.-based advanced manufacturing for active 
pharmaceutical ingredients, including their chemical precursors 
for the SNS.
    Domestic Nitrile Examination Glove Manufacturing Capacity 
and CBRN Preparedness.--The Committee is concerned that the 
U.S. consumes more than 120 billion nitrile gloves annually 
across healthcare, defense, manufacturing, food service, and 
first responders. Domestic manufacturers produce less than one 
percent of U.S. demand, with more than 99 percent of supply 
imported overwhelmingly from China and Southeast Asia. The 
Committee recognizes that nitrile examination gloves are 
classified by the Food and Drug Administration as Class I 
medical devices under 21 CFR 880.6250, constitute medical 
countermeasures under 42 U.S.C. Sec. 247d-6d(i)(1)(C), and 
provide essential protection against CBRN threats. The 
Committee encourages ASPR, in coordination with the VA, to 
develop a long-term sustainable procurement plan for nitrile 
examination gloves that gives preference to, and results in 
purchases directly from, domestic manufacturers to the maximum 
extent practicable, consistent with the Make PPE in America Act 
(section 70953 of Public Law 117-58). The Committee further 
encourages ASPR to maintain warm-base surge production capacity 
contracts with domestic nitrile examination glove manufacturers 
to ensure large-scale production capability is available to 
respond to CBRN threats, public health emergencies, and other 
events that pose a significant national security risk.
    Strengthening Domestic Supply Chain Resiliency.--The 
Committee appreciates ASPR taking steps to strengthen our 
nation's MCM enterprise, including through BioMaP and BARDA's 
Pharmaceutical Countermeasures Infrastructure (PIC) Division, 
and supports efforts to expand domestic manufacturing 
infrastructure for MCMs. Given the global nature of certain 
clinical research, development, and manufacturing activities, 
it is critical for BARDA to strengthen, expand, and make 
progress in onshoring these programs. Within 180 days of 
enactment of this Act, ASPR is directed to brief the Committee 
on ASPR's fiscal year 2027 plans to support the onshoring of 
medical countermeasure development activities, including 
actions taken by BioMAP and PIC.
    Interagency Coordination.--The Committee encourages ASPR, 
in coordination with DOD, to provide technical expertise to 
FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, as they 
further the development of MCMs for combatting emerging 
pathogens.
    Multiyear Budget.--The Committee notes that 42 U.S.C. 
300hh-10 requires annual updates to the Public Health Emergency 
Medical Countermeasures Enterprise (PHEMCE) multiyear budget. 
The Committee continues to direct ASPR to notify the Committee 
and the Energy and Commerce Committee 14 days in advance of any 
anticipated delay.
    PHEMCE Advisory Committee.--The Committee recognizes 
effective public-private partnerships are the best way to 
support our nation's preparedness and response capabilities, as 
these private sector partners are the primary developers of 
critical MCMs such as diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines 
which have no commercial market. The Committee notes with 
concern that the PHEMCE, which is chaired by ASPR, has not 
established an advisory committee incorporating private sector 
and non-Federal partners and stakeholders despite 
recommendations from Congress and NASEM. The Committee 
encourages ASPR to establish this advisory committee with 
urgency to ensure timely and transparent communication with the 
government's private sector partners. The Committee continues 
the directive included under this heading in House Report 119-
271.
    PHS Act Evaluation Funding.--The Committee understands that 
at the start of fiscal year 2025, the Department departed from 
its prior practice and included certain biodefense programs 
among the programs assessed under section 241 of the PHS Act. 
The Committee has strong concerns that the Department repeated 
this in fiscal year 2026, given the congressional direction 
provided for in the explanatory statement that accompanied 
Division B of P.L. 119-75. Therefore, the Committee has 
included bill language to preserve the nation's biodefense 
infrastructure from assessment under section 241 of the PHS 
Act.
    Rapid Detection of Bioterrorism Agents.--The Committee is 
concerned that the nation is not prepared to rapidly detect 
biological agents, such as anthrax, tularemia, melioidosis, 
glanders, and plague, even though BARDA has successfully 
supported development of diagnostic technologies that inform 
care of domestic patients infected with such biothreats, in 
some cases simultaneously. The Committee encourages ASPR to 
coordinate with CDC and other partners responsible for 
environmental test development and surveillance activities, to 
ensure seamless transition from surveillance to response in the 
event of a biological attack. The Committee further encourages 
BARDA to prioritize partnerships with domestic manufacturers 
capable of producing rapid clinical diagnostics, and to 
coordinate with PHEMCE partners to develop a diagnostic testing 
preparedness plan for use during public health emergencies, 
disasters, and other serious public health threats.
    Reporting.--The Committee directs ASPR to brief the 
Committee monthly regarding activities funded by this Act and 
other available appropriations. The agency is directed to 
notify the Committee at least 24 hours in advance of any 
obligation greater than $25,000,000 from any appropriation 
available to ASPR. Such notification is directed to include the 
source of funding, including the applicable legislative 
citation, and a description of the obligation. In addition, 
ASPR is directed to submit a monthly obligation report in 
electronic format summarizing the details of these obligations 
to the Committee. ASPR is further directed to provide the 
report no later than 30 days after the end of each month and it 
is directed to be cumulative for the fiscal year with the most 
recent obligations listed at the top.

                 RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND PROCUREMENT

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $3,207,991,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     2,625,591,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     3,312,991,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      +105,000,000
    Change from budget request........................      +687,400,000
 

Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA)

    The Committee includes $1,060,000,000 for BARDA, an 
increase of $10,000,000 above fiscal year 2026 enacted level. 
BARDA supports the advanced development of vaccines, 
therapeutics, diagnostics, and devices for potential serious 
public health threats, including chemical, biological, 
radiological, and nuclear threats, pandemic influenza, and 
emerging and reemerging infectious diseases.
    Acceleration of Antibiotic Combination Drug Development.--
The Committee is concerned about the increasing public health 
threat of antibiotic resistance (AR) and the lack of new 
antibiotics entering the market. The Committee is encouraged 
that BARDA has invested in combination antibiotic drug 
development. Therefore, the Committee urges BARDA to continue 
to prioritize the development of combination drugs, 
particularly those with activity against CDC urgent threat 
pathogens which can offer increased efficacy, reduced costs, 
and reduce the emergence of AR infections.
    Antifungal Research and Development.--The Committee is 
concerned about the growing threat of drug-resistant mycotic 
infections, including Coccidioidomycosis, Candida auris, and 
Aspergillus fumigatus. The Committee supports the research and 
development of novel antifungal therapies, particularly for 
multi-drug resistant fungal pathogens, to bolster national 
health security and reduce their public health impact. 
Antifungal development faces challenges similar to those in 
antibacterial development, and BARDA's Advanced Research and 
Development program will be critical to generate additional 
antifungal products, including treatments for endemic fungal 
diseases. The Committee instructs ASPR to follow the directive 
included under this heading in House Report 119-271.
    Antimicrobial Resistance.--The Committee continues to 
support advanced research and development of broad-spectrum 
antimicrobials, particularly for multi-drug resistant 
pathogens, and next-generation therapeutics that address the 
increasing incidence of antimicrobial resistance.
    Biodosimetry.--The Committee continues to support ASPR's 
research and investment in biodosimetry technologies to improve 
the nation's preparedness for a large-scale radiological or 
nuclear incident.
    Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Threats.--
The Committee notes with concern the elevated risk posed by 
chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) weapons 
across the globe and provides robust funding for BARDA's core 
national security mission to protect Americans against 
deliberate, man-made threats. The Committee instructs ASPR to 
complete the Rapid Response Partnership Vehicle (RRPV) 
directive included under this heading in House Report 119-271. 
The Committee continues to encourage ASPR and BARDA to engage 
more frequently with private sector partners via the RRPV 
process to ensure adequate prioritization, timely development 
of new MCMs and stockpiling of existing MCMs against CBRN 
threats.
    Clostridioides difficile.--The Committee continues to 
recognize that Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infections 
are an urgent problem in patient care settings, resulting in 
476,000 infections which cause roughly 30,000 deaths annually 
in the U.S. Currently, one in six patients diagnosed with C. 
diff will be re-diagnosed in the subsequent two to eight weeks 
and one in 11 people over the age of 65 diagnosed with 
healthcare associated C. diff infection die within one month. 
The Committee continues to encourage BARDA, in partnership with 
NIH, to support research and clinical trials for the 
development of novel treatments for C. diff that prevent 
antibiotic resistance and recurrent infection, as seen in 
existing treatments.
    Diagnostic Rapid Response Initiative.--The Committee 
recognizes that biological threats are a persistent and 
evolving danger that require robust, proactive preparedness 
measures. The Committee commends HHS and BARDA for their 
leadership in developing the Diagnostic Rapid Response 
Initiative (DxR2). This program strengthens public health 
protection and the nation's emergency response capacity through 
a long-term, affordable, sustainable, and scalable approach 
that leverages or enhances existing commercial infrastructure. 
Continued investment in DxR2 could enhance the nation's ability 
to respond rapidly to biothreat incidents by partnering with 
industry to use domestic just-in-time manufacturing, enabling 
tests to be deployed within days or weeks of a public health 
emergency. BARDA is encouraged to maintain this important 
program as a priority within the PHEMCE portfolio.
    Infectious Disease Outbreaks with Pandemic Potential.--The 
Committee supports BARDA's engagement in public-private 
partnerships to support advanced research and development of 
innovative platform technologies and medical countermeasure 
programs focused on vaccines, therapeutics, and other MCMs for 
emerging infectious diseases, including novel pathogens and 
viral families with pandemic potential. The Committee 
encourages ASPR to prioritize the identification and 
development of promising technologies that can be leveraged to 
address a range of future pathogens, including virus families 
with significant pandemic potential.
    Multidrug Resistance.--The Committee recognizes the urgent 
global health threat posed by multidrug resistant organisms and 
the need for innovative, engineering-based solutions that can 
be deployed across diverse clinical settings. The Committee is 
aware of the early development of novel anti-microbial drug 
resistance platforms and supports their ongoing research.
    Next-Generation Smallpox Biodefense.--The Committee is 
aware of advancements in next-generation therapeutics for 
smallpox, which could address safety and efficacy issues 
associated with products currently available in the stockpile. 
The Committee is also aware of new breakthrough results in 
manufacturing process improvement using high-expressing CHO 
platforms that was jointly made by BARDA and Private Industry 
has resulted in a cost-per-dose that approaches that of small 
molecules. Therefore, the Committee urges ASPR to consider 
procurement of next-generation drug products for the treatment 
of smallpox.
    Pathogen Reduction Technologies.--The Committee encourages 
BARDA to continue investments in red blood cell pathogen 
reduction technology to ensure the completion of urgently 
needed nucleic acid targeted pathogen reduction technology to 
significantly improve red blood cell transfusion safety for all 
blood products in the nation's blood supply. Red blood cells 
make up a majority of blood transfusions and are foundational 
to emergency response, trauma care, and national health 
security. The Committee urges BARDA to ensure that completion 
of technology development, as defined in BARDA contracts, is 
accomplished in parallel with the clinical trials to support 
timely FDA review.
    Point-of-Care Diagnostics.--The Committee encourages BARDA 
to continue advancing next-generation, threat-agnostic point-
of-care platforms that can detect novel and drug-resistant 
pathogens, guide targeted therapy, and integrate with 
surveillance systems to strengthen situational awareness across 
health systems. A focus on threat-agnostic diagnostics is 
critical for rapid response to future outbreaks, improving 
patient outcomes, and enhancing the nation's biodefense and 
pandemic readiness.
    Sustainable Blood Supply and National Blood Response 
Capability.--The Committee remains concerned about the 
continued vulnerability of the blood supply due to persistent 
shortages. The Committee recognizes that next-generation, cryo-
preserved platelet (CPP) products, currently in clinical 
trials, align with the objectives of BARDA. To ensure rapid 
deployment of products that address capability gaps, the 
Committee encourages prioritization of investments in next-
generation blood products based on clinical readiness and 
directs the Department, within 180 days of enactment, to brief 
the Committee on the progress of these efforts.

Project BioShield

    The Committee provides $880,000,000 for Project BioShield, 
an increase of $30,000,000 above fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level. These funds support the acquisition of promising MCMs 
developed through BARDA contracts for the most serious public 
health threats.

Strategic National Stockpile

    The Committee provides $1,060,000,000 for the Strategic 
National Stockpile (SNS), an increase of $60,000,000 above 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    Advanced Wound Care.--The Committee recognizes the need for 
SNS capabilities that support rapid wound stabilization and 
healing during mass casualty events, infectious disease 
emergencies, and natural disasters in which access to 
definitive surgical care may be adversely impacted. The 
Committee is encouraged by the development of advanced wound 
care products that are designed for rapid deployment. 
Therefore, the Committee encourages ASPR to stockpile advanced 
wound graft products to strengthen national readiness.
    Antimicrobial Resistance.--The Committee encourages ASPR, 
in coordination with FDA and CDC, to implement a review system 
to regularly assess the safety, efficacy, and vulnerability to 
antimicrobial resistance of existing SNS assets that could be 
used to respond to CBRN and public health threats and to 
support efforts to maintain an inventory of MCMs appropriate to 
respond to the continued evolution of antimicrobial resistant 
organisms.
    Guidance to State and Local Jurisdictions.--The Committee 
recognizes that SNS focuses on CBRN threats, and therefore the 
Committee supports the efforts of State and local jurisdictions 
to secure additional drugs, vaccines, and other biological 
products, medical devices, and other medical supplies necessary 
to respond to a public health emergency or a major disaster. 
The Committee recognizes the importance of guidance to States 
on how best to establish, expand, procure, replenish, maintain, 
and manage their own State stockpile, while ensuring 
appropriate collaboration with the SNS. The Committee continues 
its directive under this heading in the explanatory statement 
that accompanied Division B of P.L. 119-75.
    Improved Access to Intravenous Saline.--The Committee 
recognizes the potential for natural disasters and other supply 
chain disruptions to adversely affect the ability of hospitals 
and other medical providers to access saline solutions. The 
Committee notes the importance of the SNS and State emergency 
stockpile programs for supporting response activities during 
public health emergencies. The Committee instructs ASPR to 
follow the directive included under this heading in House 
Report 119-271. The Committee further directs ASPR to include 
in its report the extent to which State stockpile programs are 
able to maintain adequate supplies of large-volume intravenous 
saline and recommendations to strengthen State stockpile 
readiness for saline solutions.
    Influenza Medical Countermeasure Diversification.--The 
Committee remains concerned about the perennial threat of 
pandemic influenza, which could be exacerbated by expiring 
antivirals in the SNS. The Committee encourages HHS to 
diversify and replenish its stockpile of emergency influenza 
antivirals to ensure the nation has multiple current treatment 
options in the event of an influenza pandemic.
    Made in America Strategic National Stockpile.--The 
Committee is concerned about the nation's limited 
infrastructure to produce essential products such as MCMs and 
PPE. The Committee recognizes the COVID pandemic highlighted 
both the vulnerability and necessity of maintaining a robust 
domestic supply of PPE. It is critical the U.S. maintain a 
robust domestic production base. Doing so is vital for both the 
national security interests and protection of public health in 
the face of international infectious disease threats. The 
Committee directs ASPR to develop a long-term sustainable 
procurement plan that gives preference to and results in 
purchases directly from domestic manufacturers to the maximum 
extent practicable.
    Mechanical Respiratory Devices.--The Committee is aware 
that current Federal requirements do not account for mechanical 
ventilation needs in most respiratory-based responses such as 
influenza or biological or chemical incidents. Despite their 
need in every health security response, the only requirement 
documenting need is against botulinum toxin, hardly comparative 
to respiratory or easily communicable diseases. The Committee 
acknowledges the tremendous achievements of the Administration 
in 2020 to surpass past shortages and increase holdings and 
distribution capabilities, capacities, and locations of 
ventilators to ensure every American would have access in 
emergency. Therefore, the Committee encourages an update to the 
SNS Annual Review and the PHEMCE requirements to indicate 
mechanical ventilation utilization across the threat spectrum 
to include respiratory and other health security responses, and 
to provide these update figures to Congress prior to initiating 
significant modifications to the Administration's historic 
success.
    Medical Countermeasures Preparedness Review.--The most 
recent Medical Countermeasures Preparedness Review, submitted 
to Congress as part of the required annual threat-based review 
of the SNS, found the Department has not met MCM stockpiling 
requirements for numerous public health threats. Furthermore, 
the review demonstrated how the SNS often relies on decades-old 
products to fulfill other stockpiling requirements. The SNS is 
a key pillar in the nation's broader strategy to protect the 
American people. Gaps in the stockpile's preparedness against 
these threats jeopardizes national security. The Committee 
instructs ASPR to follow the directive included under this 
heading in House Report 119-271.
    MCM Procurements & Bioterrorism.--The Committee recognizes 
the tragic anniversary of weaponized anthrax used in a terror 
attack against American citizens at the highest levels of the 
U.S. Government. Despite the nation's best efforts to deter and 
counter the proliferation of biological weapons such as anthrax 
from adversaries, global technological and scientific advances, 
including in artificial intelligence and drones, make such 
weaponization and utilization of anthrax and other biological 
agents more likely by nefarious actors. Despite these concerns, 
stockpile levels at the SNS continue to fall dangerously below 
requirements, particularly for those domestically produced 
therapeutic countermeasures that address Material Threat 
Determinations and that lack commercial markets, such as 
Anthrax antitoxin. We encourage the SNS to work with 
interagency partners to bolster long-term sustainability of the 
domestic industrial base through innovative approaches, such as 
the use of long-term contracting that may reduce costs and 
enhance overall stockpile levels through manufacturing 
efficiency.
    Nerve Agent Countermeasure Preparedness.--The Committee 
encourages ASPR to continue evaluating and, as appropriate, 
advancing the procurement of FDA-approved MCMs for nerve agent 
exposure to help ensure the SNS remains prepared to respond to 
chemical, biological, radiological, and other emergency 
threats. The Committee further encourages ASPR to provide an 
update on its plans to use available resources to support 
stockpile preparedness and to identify any challenges related 
to acquisition, sustainment, or modernization of these 
capabilities.
    Nuclear Threat Preparedness.--The Committee is concerned 
that the SNS faces potential shortfalls regarding the 
stockpiling of MCMs necessary in the event of a nuclear event 
to counter the potential release of radioactive iodine. The 
Committee encourages ASPR to prioritize investments in the MCMs 
necessary for such a response and continues the directive 
included under this heading in House Report 119-271.
    Pathogen-Agnostic Respiratory Defense Technologies.--The 
Committee recognizes the continued burden of respiratory 
infections in healthcare and community settings and the 
importance of pathogen-agnostic prevention strategies that can 
be deployed quickly in response to emerging biological threats. 
The Committee further recognizes that mucosal immunity, as an 
early line of defense in the nose and upper airways, may play 
an important role in helping to reduce respiratory infections. 
While current vaccines for respiratory infections are primarily 
designed to reduce illness severity, the Committee encourages 
research and innovation into mucosal MCMs aimed at preventing 
respiratory tract infections. The Committee encourages the 
exploration of emerging pathogen-agnostic technologies, 
including approaches that may help reduce the spread of 
pathogens in exhaled breath and strengthen broader preventive 
capabilities. Such technologies could complement existing 
vaccine and therapeutic platforms and may contribute to a more 
comprehensive response to respiratory infectious disease 
threats.
    Persistent Procurement Challenges.--The Committee is 
concerned about the SNS's procurement process that has been 
mired by successful bid protests, repeated unanswered sources 
sought notices, and misuse of sole source awards under GAO 
determined faulty pretexts. The Committee has invested in 
efforts to bolster the nation's MCM preparedness against health 
security threats, especially for those CBRN countermeasures 
that lack a traditional marketplace. Therefore, the Committee 
continues the directive included under this heading in House 
Report 119-271.
    Poxvirus Countermeasures.--The Committee is concerned by 
the identified gap between established requirements and current 
stockpiled levels of poxvirus vaccines for immunocompromised 
individuals and poxvirus therapeutics. Given the ongoing 
national security risk posed by the intentional or accidental 
release of smallpox, the Committee urges ASPR to prioritize 
procurement sufficiently to meet the documented requirements to 
close the identified preparedness gap.
    Reusable Respirators.--The Committee recognizes the 
potential of reusable respirators to provide strategic long-
term value to State stockpile programs due to their longer 
operational lifetime and extended shelf life when compared with 
disposable masks. The Committee encourages ASPR to work with 
States to consider reusable respirators when planning personal 
protective equipment (PPE) investments. The Committee continues 
to support warm-base surge production capacity contracts with 
domestic PPE suppliers, including reusable respirators. ASPR is 
encouraged to maintain domestic manufacturing surge 
capabilities that can rapidly ramp up large-scale PPE 
production in response to CBRN threats or other public health 
crises that pose a significant national security risk. The 
Committee instructs ASPR to complete the directive included 
under this heading in House Report 119-271.
    Shared Responsibility for Personal Protective Equipment 
Preparedness.--The Committee recognizes that personal 
protective equipment (PPE) is a critical component of national 
preparedness, and that effective PPE readiness cannot rest 
solely with the Federal government. The Committee emphasizes 
that PPE procurement, stockpiling, and sustainment should be 
pursued through a coordinated partnership among Federal, State, 
and local governments, informed by regional risk profiles and 
operational needs. While the SNS plays an important role as a 
national backstop, the Committee encourages ASPR to develop a 
strategy in collaboration with State and local partners to 
support distributed stockpiling strategies for consumables, 
including PPE. ASPR, in coordination with State and local 
partners, should establish clear roles and responsibilities, 
and predictable replenishment planning. The Committee directs 
ASPR to provide a briefing within 180 days of enactment on 
efforts to strengthen Federal, State, and local coordination on 
PPE preparedness and supply chain resilience.
    Shelf-Life Extension Program.--The Committee acknowledges 
the benefits of the Shelf-Life Extension Program (SLEP) and 
takes into consideration public skepticism of certain 
countermeasures in the program. The Committee notes concerns 
that efforts to achieve cost savings through SLEP may 
negatively impact the distribution of, patient adherence to, 
and consumer confidence in SNS products used during an 
emergency. The Committee encourages ASPR to review products in 
the SNS that are beyond 10 years of the date of manufacture and 
develop a plan to replenish aged products.
    Stockpile Readiness.--The Committee is concerned about the 
sufficiency and long-term sustainment of stockpiled medical 
countermeasures in the SNS intended to address material 
threats. The lack of clarity regarding the division of 
expenditures between MCM procurement, consumables, storage, 
maintenance, lifecycle management, and other overhead expenses 
may complicate long-term procurement planning and operational 
readiness. The Committee notes that maintaining adequate and 
reliable stockpile levels for these MCMs is essential to 
national security, particularly given the limited or 
nonexistent commercial markets for such products. Emerging 
technologies may also enable the proliferation and 
dissemination of CBRN threats, underscoring the need to 
maintain effective MCMs. Therefore, the Committee strongly 
encourages ASPR to continue coordinating with key industry, 
governmental, and nongovernmental partners on procurement 
activities to address capacity issues and support sustained 
stockpile readiness for priority threats.
    Synthetic Biology and Artificial Intelligence.--The 
Committee is aware that rapid advances in synthetic biology and 
artificial intelligence are changing the nature of biological 
weapons risk by lowering barriers to the design, modification, 
and recreation of dangerous pathogens. Experts have warned that 
these technologies could enable state or non-state actors to 
reintroduce eradicated or controlled diseases, such as 
smallpox, or to enhance the lethality, transmissibility, or 
resistance of other high-consequence biological agents, 
including smallpox, anthrax, viral hemorrhagic fevers, and 
novel or engineered pathogens, with potentially severe public 
health and national security consequences. The Committee 
directs ASPR, in coordination with other appropriate Federal 
partners, to assess whether current MCMs stockpiling levels 
adequately account for risks associated with synthetic biology- 
and AI-enabled threats, and to brief the Committee within 180 
days of enactment on any gaps identified and recommended 
actions to address them.
    U.S.-Affiliated Pacific Islands.--The Committee recognizes 
that the SNS plays a vital role in ensuring the availability 
and rapid deployment of MCMs and medical equipment and 
supplies. The Committee notes that existing SNS distribution 
models may not adequately address the logistical challenges and 
response timelines associated with geographically dispersed and 
remote regions such as the U.S.-Affiliated Pacific Islands. 
Therefore, the Committee encourages a briefing on the 
feasibility of establishing an SNS storage and distribution 
facility in U.S.-Affiliated Pacific Islands.

Pandemic Influenza Preparedness

    The Committee includes $312,991,000, an increase of 
$5,000,000 above fiscal year 2026 enacted level, for the 
pandemic influenza preparedness program. This funding supports 
efforts to modernize influenza research and development of 
vaccines and preparedness testing and evaluation, as well as 
critical domestic vaccine manufacturing infrastructure.
    The Committee encourages ASPR to support the development of 
pandemic influenza therapeutics and vaccines to ensure a robust 
pipeline of influenza countermeasures.
    Test-To-Treat.--The Committee believes the test-to-treat 
model, which was implemented for recent respiratory illness 
outbreaks in retail pharmacies and health clinics, can make 
other infectious disease treatments available more quickly and 
reduce disease transmission and illness severity. The 
availability of accurate diagnostics and the rapid prescription 
of treatments is especially critical given the recent co-
circulation of multiple respiratory diseases during the winter 
season. The Committee believes the test-to-treat model should 
be evaluated for the confluence of influenza, COVID-19, and 
RSV, given the availability of multiple diagnostic tests and 
antivirals. The Committee directs HHS to provide an update in 
the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification on the 
findings of the NIH Home Test-to-Treat demonstration for 
influenza, lessons learned from the COVID-19 Federal Retail 
Pharmacy Program, and the design of a potential test-to-treat 
demonstration for respiratory illnesses including, influenza 
and RSV to serve vulnerable populations.

                   OPERATIONS AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $484,606,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       711,478,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       335,606,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -149,000,000
    Change from budget request........................      -375,872,000
 

Office of Administration & Preparedness and Emergency Operations

    The Committee includes $90,407,000 for activities within 
the Assistant Secretary's Immediate Office; the Office of the 
Chief Operating Officer; the Office of Acquisitions Management, 
Contracts, and Grants; the Office of Financial Planning and 
Analysis; and for Preparedness and Emergency Operations. The 
Preparedness and Emergency Operations account also funds the 
Office of Emergency Management, which supports a full spectrum 
of emergency management responsibilities, including planning, 
coordination, logistics, training, and responding to planned 
events and unplanned incidents.
    Addressing Emergency Medical Services Workforce Shortages 
and Readiness.--The Committee is keenly aware of the 
significant challenges the emergency medical services (EMS) 
community faces, including workforce shortages in underserved, 
rural, and Tribal communities. Therefore, the Committee 
encourages ASPR, in consultation with SAMHSA and the National 
Highway Traffic Safety Administration, to develop a national 
pilot program of grants to governmental and non-governmental 
EMS entities to support the recruitment and training of 
emergency medical technicians and paramedics in underserved, 
rural, and Tribal communities. The pilot program's objective is 
to ensure a well-trained and adequate ground ambulance services 
workforce that address health disparities related to accessing 
prehospital ground ambulance health care services.
    National Special Security Events.--The Committee provides 
$15,000,000 for National Special Security Events (NSSE), an 
increase of $10,000,000 above fiscal year 2026 enacted level. 
This funding is included to support the increase in non-
Stafford Act response activities related to certain national 
special security events.

National Disaster Medical System

    The Committee provides $89,904,000 for the National 
Disaster Medical System (NDMS), an increase of $13,000,000 
above fiscal year 2026 enacted level. NDMS deploys trained 
medical, mortuary, victim identification and veterinarian teams 
to communities impacted by public health and medical 
emergencies due to natural and manmade incidents.
    Mission Zero.--The Committee provides $7,000,000, an 
increase of $3,000,000 above fiscal year 2026 enacted level, 
for civilian trauma centers to train and incorporate military 
trauma care providers and teams into care centers. Civilian 
trauma centers remain indispensable to sustaining a medically 
ready force, yet current training pathways still do not 
adequately develop proficiency in the dual- use, portable 
critical care technologies required for modern combat medicine. 
Providers should be prepared to deliver prolonged 
resuscitation, damage control surgery, hemorrhage control, and 
ICU level stabilization using life support, monitoring, oxygen 
delivery, and anesthesia systems that function reliably in non-
traditional and resource constrained environments. Therefore, 
the Committee encourages ASPR to expand civilian--military 
trauma partnerships and modernize training infrastructure by 
integrating the portable, dual-use technologies necessary to 
accurately mirror real-world battlefield conditions.
    Next-Generation Air Mobility Solutions.--The Committee 
continues to provide no funding for next generation air 
mobility solutions.
    Pediatric Disaster Care.--The Committee provides 
$9,000,000, an increase of $2,000,000 above fiscal year 2026 
enacted level, for the pediatric disaster care program.
    U.S.-Affiliated Pacific Islands.--The Committee recognizes 
that NDMS plays a vital role in providing surge medical 
personnel, patient evacuation, and coordinated Federal medical 
response during domestic emergencies. The Committee notes that 
existing NDMS structures and deployment models may not be fully 
optimized for remote and geographically isolated regions such 
as the U.S.-Affiliated Pacific Islands. Therefore, the 
Committee encourages a briefing on the feasibility of 
strengthening NDMS support for the U.S.-Affiliated Pacific 
Islands.

Hospital Preparedness Program

    The Committee provides $70,055,000 for the Hospital 
Preparedness Program (HPP), a decrease of $237,000,000 above 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level, which supports a tiered system 
of care prepared to respond to a special pathogen event. HPP 
supports a variety of programs to strengthen the preparedness 
and response of the health care sector. Due to funding 
constraints, the Committee eliminates funding for HPP formula 
grants.
    Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection (CIP).--The 
Committee provides $1,774,000 for CIP, which is the same as 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    National Emerging Special Pathogens Training and Education 
Center (NETEC).--The Committee provides $8,500,000 for NETEC, 
an increase of $1,000,000 above fiscal year 2026 enacted level. 
NETEC serves as a national leader in readiness and response and 
as a special pathogen response advisor to the Secretary and 
other Federal partners. NETEC also coordinates the National 
Special Pathogen System, which includes 13 Regional Emerging 
Special Pathogen Treatment Centers, and partners with health 
care systems across the nation. NETEC provides training and 
education, consultation, technical assistance, and 
recommendations on patient care and care systems improvements 
for health care partners, with a focus on strengthening 
national resilience against high-consequence infectious 
diseases. The Committee provides funding for continued 
investment and expansion of NETEC's capabilities to meet these 
objectives.
    Regional Disaster Health Response System.--The Committee 
provides $7,000,000 for the Regional Disaster Health Response 
System, which is the same as fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    Regional Emerging Special Pathogen Treatment Centers 
(RESPTCs).--The Committee provides $23,000,000 for RESPTCs, an 
increase of $2,000,000 above fiscal year 2026 enacted level, to 
strengthen biocontainment capabilities through the RESPTCs 
network and the Special Pathogen Treatment Centers.
    Portable Biocontainment Units (PBCUs).--The Committee 
supports ASPR's recent investment in Portable Biocontainment 
Units (PBCUs). The Committee recognizes the potential value of 
such units for the repatriation and domestic transfer of 
American's afflicted with high-consequence infectious diseases 
to facilities able to safely meet patient needs. The Committee 
directs ASPR to include an estimate of the funding needed to 
maintain the two existing PBCUs as well as the estimated 
procurement costs of two additional PBCUs in the fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification.
    Trauma Care Readiness and Coordination.--The Committee 
includes $2,000,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level, to support States to coordinate and improve 
emergency medical services and trauma care during a public 
health emergency.

Medical Reserve Corps

    The Committee provides $6,240,000 for the Medical Reserve 
Corps (MRC), which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level. MRC volunteers partner with public health and emergency 
response organizations to prepare communities before a crisis, 
strengthening coordination and readiness. The Committee 
recognizes the contributions of MRC volunteers for the almost 
300,000 hours of service in 2025. The Committee encourages ASPR 
to continue supporting the operation and integration of the 
national MRC network.

Preparedness and Response Innovation

    The Committee provides $4,000,000, which is the same as the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level, for a bilateral cooperative 
program with the Government of Israel for the development of 
health technologies. In the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification the Committee requests an update on the 
investments this funding has produced since the program's 
inception.

Industrial Base Management and Supply Chain

    The Committee supports ASPR's ongoing domestic investments 
to accelerate advanced development of investigational vaccines, 
therapeutics, and diagnostics; emergency manufacturing of 
critical MCMs and ancillary supplies; and build and validate 
advanced manufacturing processes and facilities capable of 
storing, producing, and deploying essential medicines and 
diagnostics in the event of a national health emergency.
    Diagnostics Manufacturing.--Diagnostics are critical for 
the prevention, protection and surveillance of known and 
unknown CBRN threat. The ability to rapidly develop and access 
diagnostics is essential to ensure U.S. readiness and biohazard 
preparedness. The Committee has previously encouraged ASPR to 
promote policies for flexible contracting options between HHS 
and diagnostic companies, which would provide incentives to 
keep US manufacturing companies with warm production lines. The 
Committee is aware that companies that HHS invested in during 
COVID have closed or drastically reduced their domestic 
footprint. Therefore, the Committee encourages ASPR to continue 
to support the diagnostic domestic manufacturing 
infrastructure.
    Domestic Manufacturing Comprehensive Risk Assessment.--In 
response to increasing risks from global disruptions, foreign 
dependencies, and national security threats, the Committee 
encourages ASPR to undertake a comprehensive risk assessment of 
U.S. pharmaceutical supply chains to determine which medicines 
are most vulnerable, with focus on reliance of foreign entities 
for critical ingredients, and provide analysis on options for 
mitigating risk and reducing reliance, with focus on domestic 
manufacturing solutions. The Committee encourages ASPR to 
assess vulnerabilities and map the full lifecycle of critical 
drug supply chains from raw materials to final distribution and 
requests an update on this assessment within 90 days of 
enactment of this Act.
    Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).--The Committee notes 
the importance of increasing domestic manufacturing 
capabilities for PPE in order to respond to CBRN threats and 
other public health crises that pose a significant national 
security risk.
    Strengthening Domestic Manufacturing and Production.--The 
Committee strongly supports IBMSC's efforts to increase 
domestic manufacturing capacity of critical key starting 
materials and active pharmaceutical ingredients. The Committee 
directs ASPR to provide an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification on efforts made to support domestic 
capacity for essential medical products.
    Supply Chain Monitoring Efforts.--The Committee recognizes 
the potential value of supply chain monitoring and engagement 
and appreciates ASPR's efforts to partner with industry and 
provide end-to-end visibility for supply chain monitoring and 
readiness. In addition to providing insights for demand and 
supply forecasting, the Committee encourages ASPR to coordinate 
with FDA and CDC to use available tools and platforms to 
monitor the availability of a broader list of essential health 
and medical products. The Committee requests a briefing on 
these efforts within 180 day of enactment of this Act.

                        Office of the Secretary


                 GENERAL DEPARTMENTAL MANAGEMENT (GDM)

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $689,964,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       419,546,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       472,668,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -217,296,000
    Change from budget request........................       +53,122,000
 

    Of the funds provided, $58,028,000 shall be derived from 
evaluation set aside funds available under section 241 of the 
PHS Act.
    This appropriation supports activities that are associated 
with the Secretary's roles as policy officer and general 
manager of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). 
The Office of the Secretary also implements Congressional 
directives, and provides assistance, direction, and 
coordination to the headquarters, regions, and field 
organizations of the Department. In addition, this funding 
supports the Office of the Surgeon General and several other 
health promotion and disease prevention activities that are 
centrally administered. Within the total provided for GDM, the 
Committee includes up to $32,000,000 for the Assistant 
Secretary for Financial Resources (ASFR). The Committee notes 
that the budget request for GDM reflects a proposal to transfer 
various functions within the Office of the Secretary and the 
Department. The Committee looks forward to working with the 
authorizing committees of jurisdiction as they consider the 
Department's proposal.
    Within the total provided for GDM, the Committee includes 
not less than the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Children's Interagency                     $3,000,000         $3,000,000
 Coordinating Council.............
Embryo Adoption Awareness Campaign          2,000,000          2,000,000
Food is Medicine..................          2,000,000          2,000,000
Interagency Coordinating Committee          2,000,000          2,000,000
 on the Promotion of Optimal Birth
 Outcomes.........................
KidneyX...........................          5,000,000          5,000,000
LymeX.............................          5,000,000          5,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Adoption and Utilization of Artificial Intelligence in Non-
Clinical Health Care.--The Committee recognizes the growing 
importance of having a non-clinical health care workforce that 
is skilled in the adoption and implementation of artificial 
intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) for usage in health 
data management and information processing systems to improve 
administrative efficiency. The Committee also recognizes the 
impending acceleration of AI/ML utilization within health care 
delivery systems and the need for safe, secure, swift, and 
cost-effective non-clinical automation. Therefore, the 
Committee encourages HHS to review and publicly report on the 
benefits and risks of AI/ML adoption in health care for non-
clinical purposes; drivers and barriers to use, adoption, and 
implementation of AI/ML for non-clinical purposes; the state of 
workforce readiness, including future and current non-clinical 
health care administrative staff; and policy options to enhance 
benefits or address challenges associated with the use of non-
clinical AI/ML in health care. The Committee encourages HHS to 
consult with relevant Federal agencies, as determined by the 
Secretary, including CMS, ONC, the Department of Veterans 
Affairs, FDA, DOL, the National Institute of Standards and 
Technology, the White House Office of Science and Technology 
Policy, and external stakeholders.
    Artificial Intelligence in Health Care.--The Committee 
recognizes how the innovative use of AI can improve quality 
health care for patients nationwide, including by reducing 
burdens, streamlining processes, helping clinicians, and 
improving diagnoses. As AI applications in health care continue 
to evolve and expand, the Committee supports efforts and 
initiatives by HHS to promote the safe and ethical 
implementation of these technologies to enhance patient 
outcomes while also ensuring guardrails are in place to protect 
patient safety and data privacy. The Committee notes that 
utilizing AI health care accreditation processes could protect 
patients and providers and yield responsible and measured 
implementation by ensuring ongoing compliance with laws, 
regulations, quality standards, and evidence-based practices. 
Accreditation serves as a trusted indicator of high-quality 
care, building both patient and provider confidence, and in 
turn fostering adoption of safe and effective AI systems in 
health care. To advance innovation while safeguarding patient 
protections, the Committee encourages HHS to leverage 
accreditation programs and standards, where appropriate, as a 
supportive mechanism for ensuring that AI tools in health care 
are developed, deployed, and utilized responsibly.
    Automated Donor Referral for Bone Marrow.--The Committee 
encourages HHS to explore, in collaboration with organ 
procurement organizations and other relevant stakeholders, 
whether existing electronic donor referral systems could be 
adapted to facilitate identification of potential deceased 
donors whose vertebral bodies may be suitable for bone marrow 
recovery and processing, thereby supporting the availability of 
stem cell products for transplantation.
    Behavioral Health Emergency Room Boarding Diversion 
Pilot.--The Committee is concerned with the emergency room 
boarding crisis, especially for individuals in a mental health 
crisis. The Committee encourages HHS to consider implementing a 
pilot program modeled after the Massachusetts hospital 
diversion program, where young people who are at risk of 
hospital boarding due to mental health needs are referred 
instead to receive care at home with a trusted behavioral and 
mental health partner.
    Bill Wide Requirements.--The Committee notes the inclusion 
of a bill wide requirements section of this report. This 
section contains requirements that apply to all agencies funded 
by this Act.
    Bone Marrow Banking.--The Committee recognizes the 
potential of deceased donor bone marrow recovery and cryogenic 
preservation to expand the availability of hematopoietic stem 
cell products for transplantation. The Committee encourages HHS 
to consider the feasibility of expanding deceased donor bone 
marrow recovery, processing, and cryogenic preservation 
capabilities to support the clinical availability of such 
products, consistent with existing statutory authorities and in 
coordination with relevant stakeholders.
    Budget Requests.--The Committee instructs the Department to 
follow the directive included under this heading in General 
Departmental Management in Senate Report 119-55.
    Cardiorespiratory Technology for Infants.--The Committee is 
concerned with the rise of sudden unexpected infant death 
across the country, with an increase of nearly 12 percent 
between 2020 and 2022. Despite sudden unexpected infant death 
claiming approximately 3,700 infant lives annually, the use of 
new, home cardiorespiratory technology in relation to the 
prevention of sudden unexpected infant death has yet to be 
investigated on a large scale. Within one year of enactment of 
this Act, the Committee directs HHS to provide a report to the 
Committee regarding the use of home cardiorespiratory 
technology to help prevent sudden unexpected infant death, as 
defined in 42 U.S.C. 300c-11(e). The report may include 
evidence on the effectiveness, performance, and accuracy of 
home cardiorespiratory technology, including real world 
evidence, that track the heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and 
other vital signs of an infant, particularly those infants who 
are high risk; new models of care to improve the home sleeping 
environment of an infant; and any existing barriers to access 
or opportunities to increase the use of home cardiorespiratory 
monitors for infants, including recommendations for coverage by 
Medicaid and commercial insurance plans.
    Cell and Gene Therapies.--Newly approved cell and gene 
therapies, together with the medical devices, delivery 
technologies, and related innovations that enable their safe 
and effective administration, provide enormous promise for 
patients with conditions ranging from cancers such as lymphoma, 
multiple myeloma, and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) to 
inherited blood disorders including hemophilia, sickle cell 
disease, and beta thalassemia. Despite the promise of new 
therapies, many barriers remain for patients trying to access 
them from the outset. Cell collection centers remain 
concentrated in urban areas, many of them far from more rural 
States where patients live. The Committee encourages the 
Secretary to work with FDA, CMS, and HRSA, along with expert 
stakeholders, to reduce barriers for patients who need to 
travel to receive care for these diseases by bringing cell 
collection and resulting therapeutic care closer to patients 
and by reducing travel barriers between States where needed.
    Centrally Managed Projects (formerly Joint Funding 
Arrangements).--The Committee directs the agency to include all 
amounts assessed from any operating or staffing division and 
the methodology used to determine such amounts for each project 
funded.
    Children's Interagency Coordinating Council.--Within the 
funds provided for GDM, the Committee includes $3,000,000 for 
the Children's Interagency Coordinating Council.
    Clinical Trial Methodologies for Terminal Illness 
Therapies.--The Committee is concerned by reports that the FDA 
has increasingly limited the use of single-arm clinical trials 
in the review of therapies intended to treat terminal illnesses 
with limited or no effective treatment options. The Committee 
recognizes that, for decades, FDA has exercised regulatory 
flexibility under the accelerated approval pathway for 
therapies addressing serious or life-threatening conditions, 
particularly where requiring a placebo-controlled trial may 
raise ethical concerns for patients with advanced disease. The 
Committee encourages the Secretary to work with FDA to continue 
applying this longstanding approach, where scientifically and 
medically appropriate, including consideration of single-arm 
trials and alternative endpoints for therapies intended to 
treat terminally ill patient populations with unmet medical 
needs. The Committee further directs FDA to brief the 
Committee, not later than 180 days after enactment of this Act, 
on current agency policies and practices regarding the use of 
single-arm trials and other flexible clinical trial designs in 
accelerated approval applications for treatments targeting 
serious or life-threatening diseases.
    Communications With the Committee.--The Committee relies on 
the budget offices of each departmental agency to provide 
timely technical assistance and responsive communications 
regarding Committee inquiries and directives. Prompt technical 
assistance and communication are critical to enabling the 
Committee to make informed decisions in allocating limited 
budgetary resources and conducting effective oversight of 
taxpayer funds. Accordingly, the Committee continues the 
directives included under this heading in General Departmental 
Management in Senate Report 119-55.
    Community Academic Health Systems (CAHS).--The Committee 
recognizes the important role that community hospitals, health 
centers, physician offices, and other local health care 
facilities play when they partner with accredited medical 
schools and graduate medical education programs to provide 
clinical education to medical students and residents. These 
community academic health systems are a consortium of medical 
schools and local health care facilities partnering to 
strengthen physician workforce pipelines, particularly in rural 
and underserved areas, and expand access to primary and 
preventive care. The Committee directs HHS to provide a 
briefing to the Committee within 180 of enactment of this Act 
on the role CAHSs play in physician training and distribution, 
with a report to follow, and encourages the Secretary to 
develop and implement programs to support the establishment and 
sustainability of CAHSs through new and existing programs.
    Community Multishare Coverage Pilot Program.--The Committee 
recognizes the value of innovative approaches that align health 
coverage, employment stability, and upward economic mobility. 
The Committee encourages the Secretary to consider pilot models 
that incorporate hospital-community partnerships, shared 
financing structures, individualized health improvement 
supports, and measurable outcomes related to coverage 
stability, employment retention, income growth, and reduced 
reliance on public assistance, and to include implementation 
options and any legislative recommendations in the fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification.
    Congressional Justifications.--The Committee instructs the 
Department to follow the directive included under this heading 
in General Departmental Management in House Report 119-271.
    Coordination Regarding SCD Related Activities.--Sickle cell 
disease (SCD) is the most common inherited blood disorder in 
the U.S., affecting approximately 100,000 Americans. 
Individuals living with SCD face serious health complications, 
including chronic pain, stroke, and organ damage. These 
complications can significantly reduce life expectancy and 
contribute to high rates of emergency department utilization 
and preventable hospitalizations. While federal agencies 
support important SCD-related activities, current efforts 
remain fragmented across programs and operating divisions. In a 
constrained fiscal environment, preserving and strengthening 
coordination of existing investments is essential to maximize 
impact and prevent duplication. The Committee encourages HHS, 
specifically NIH, CDC, HRSA, and CMS, to advance a more 
cohesive federal approach to sickle cell disease. The Committee 
further encourages formalized interagency consultation to align 
research, surveillance, and care delivery activities; data 
harmonization across surveillance, clinical research, and 
reimbursement systems; improved coordination between public 
health data collection and federal coverage policies; and 
identification of measurable outcome metrics, including 
hospitalization rates, mortality, and access to comprehensive 
care. The Committee requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification outlining steps taken to improve 
coordination, eliminate redundancies, and ensure existing 
federal investments in sickle cell disease infrastructure 
produce measurable improvements in patient outcomes.
    Countries of Concern.--The Committee is concerned about the 
safety, privacy, and national security repercussions of 
diabetes medical technologies imported from countries of 
concern, particularly interconnected insulin delivery systems, 
continuous glucose monitors, and related components. The 
Committee notes recent Federal actions and warnings regarding 
potential medical device failures and vulnerabilities resulting 
from sensitive health data of Americans going to servers housed 
in countries of concern. The Committee directs HHS to ensure 
that government contracts prioritize companies that do not 
house sensitive data in countries of concern. The Committee 
further directs HHS to submit a report to the Committee within 
180 days of enactment of this Act on its activities to monitor, 
evaluate, and mitigate safety, quality, and cybersecurity risks 
associated with diabetes medical technologies imported from 
countries of concern.
    Diagnostic and Supplemental Breast Imaging Coverage.--The 
Committee recognizes the importance of screening and diagnostic 
tests for breast cancer, which can be treated successfully if 
caught early. The Committee encourages HHS to provide a report 
on utilization, access, and cost-sharing trends associated with 
breast cancer screening and follow-on diagnostic imaging, 
including the potential premium impact of policies that 
increase coverage.
    Digital Identity Solutions.--The Committee notes the 
growing need to modernize online identity verification 
solutions across government to protect against fraud, 
strengthen digital identity nationwide, and support American 
users. Agencies should replace legacy checks with multi-
layered, high assurance verification to deliver a more secure, 
seamless experience while saving taxpayer funds. The Committee 
encourages HHS to work with agencies to utilize commercially 
available, user-consented and reusable digital identity 
solutions that support high-assurance identity proofing and 
authentication independently certified to meet or exceed 
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Identity 
Assurance Level 2 (IAL2) guidelines to achieve the highest 
possible pass rates, fraud prevention, and cost reduction.
    Digital Mammography Coverage Analysis.--The Committee 
recognizes the importance of access to mammography screening 
for early detection of breast cancer. Digital Breast 
Tomosynthesis, or 3D mammography, offers clinical benefits to 
women with dense breasts, detects more invasive cancers, 
improves accuracy, reduces patient recalls for additional 
testing, and provides rapid and reliable results and storage of 
images. The Committee directs GAO to study any coverage and 
copay gaps across States and different forms of private and 
public health insurance, as well as trends in usage for 3D 
mammography screening, and to provide a preliminary briefing to 
the Committee within 180 days of enactment of this Act with a 
report to follow.
    Disclosure of Reimbursements for People's Liberation Army 
(PLA) and Xinjiang-Developed Medicines.--The Committee is 
concerned that manufacturers may seek reimbursement under 
Medicare or Medicaid without clearly disclosing whether pivotal 
clinical trials were conducted at PLA military hospitals or 
locations in Xinjiang. The Committee encourages the Department 
to promote robust disclosure practices so policymakers and 
program administrators can better assess related risks.
    Drug Resistant Tuberculosis.--Drug resistant tuberculosis 
(TB) is identified as a serious threat level pathogen to the 
U.S. by CARB-X. As drug resistant TB cases are on the rise 
globally, the threat to the U.S. also grows and HHS's 
investment in new TB diagnostics, drugs, and vaccines is 
critical. The Committee directs HHS to provide a briefing to 
the Committee within 180 days of enactment of this Act on 
cross-cutting Departmental investments in drug resistant 
diseases.
    Embryo Adoption Awareness Campaign.--The Committee 
continues funding for the Embryo Adoption Awareness Campaign to 
educate Americans about the existence of frozen human embryos 
(resulting from in-vitro fertilization), which may be available 
for donation/adoption to help other couples build their 
families. The Committee includes bill language permitting these 
funds to be used to provide medical and administrative services 
to individuals adopting embryos, deemed necessary for such 
adoptions, consistent with the Code of Federal Regulations.
    Ensuring Access to Colorectal Cancer Screening Continuum of 
Care.--The Committee remains concerned about increases in 
colorectal cancer incidence and death rates. According to new 
data, colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer 
deaths for Americans under 50 years old, which was not 
initially projected to occur until 2030. The Committee 
encourages HHS to summarize and report on current Federal 
guidance regarding colorectal cancer preventive screening 
coverage, including the treatment of follow-up colonoscopy 
after a positive stool-based test, and to identify any areas of 
implementation confusion affecting patient access to preventive 
screening. Such report should distinguish between preventive 
screening services and diagnostic or surveillance services and 
include any estimated premium effects of broader first-dollar 
coverage requirements.
    Farmers and Ranchers Mental Health.--The Committee is 
concerned by the drastic increase in suicide and the mental 
health crisis affecting farmers, ranchers, and other 
agricultural workers. The Committee directs HHS to brief the 
Committee within 180 days of enactment of this Act, with a 
report to follow, providing an analysis of mental health care 
utilization, including counseling usage among farmers, 
ranchers, and other agricultural workers, as well as barriers 
to care. The Committee notes that tele-mental health offers an 
opportunity to improve care access. Therefore, the Committee 
requests that the analysis also assesses tele-mental health 
uptake and access, including insurance coverage and provider 
availability. The Committee requests that such an analysis also 
contain suggestions to improve access to and uptake of both 
traditional mental health care and tele-mental health care in 
rural and remote locations, especially as it pertains to 
Federal programs like Medicare and the individual marketplace.
    Global Health Research.--The Committee requests an update 
in the fiscal year 2028 congressional budget justification on 
how CDC, FDA, ASPR/BARDA, NIH (including the Fogarty 
International Center), and other agencies jointly coordinate 
global health research activities with specific metrics to 
track progress and collaboration toward agreed upon health 
goals.
    Graduate Psychiatry Education.--The Committee supports 
efforts to expand Graduate Medical Education (GME) programs in 
underserved areas and recognizes the critical role that public 
universities and teaching hospitals play in meeting the 
healthcare needs of rural communities, veterans, and other 
high-need populations. Within the various GME programs 
supported by HHS, the Committee encourages the Department to 
expand opportunities for applications for residency positions 
from academic institutions that demonstrate established and 
sustained partnerships with community-based providers, 
including Rural Health Centers, Community Health Centers, 
Veterans clinics, VA hospitals, Women and Children's units, and 
other community-based outpatient clinics.
    Health Savings Account Utilization and Stability.--The 
Committee recognizes the importance of health savings accounts 
to increase Americans' control over their medical spending and 
the potential to reduce costs by increasing competition among 
providers. The Committee encourages HHS, in coordination with 
the Department of Treasury, to conduct an analysis on the 
utilization of health savings accounts, including common 
procedures, services, prescription drugs, devices, or other 
medical expenses paid for using such accounts.
    HHS Open Data.--The Committee encourages HHS, in 
coordination with NIH, to assess and pilot the integration of 
privacy-preserving health data discovery and search tools, 
including systems similar to Trusted Research Environments 
(TREs), into the Department's Living Open Data Plan and 
evidence-building activities, noting that such tools enable 
secure discovery of large-scale health datasets while 
maintaining strong patient privacy protections. The Committee 
requests an update on this topic in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justifications.
    Immune Stratification and Early Detection Study.--The 
Committee recognizes the need for innovative, scalable 
approaches to improve early detection, risk stratification, and 
prevention of respiratory and immune-mediated illnesses. The 
Committee is aware of emerging diagnostic approaches that 
leverage innate immune biomarkers to assess variability in 
individual immune response through non-invasive, low-cost 
methodologies. The Committee further recognizes ongoing State-
level pilot programs evaluating the feasibility and public 
health impact of such approaches. Accordingly, the Committee 
encourages HHS to conduct a study evaluating the feasibility, 
clinical utility, and cost-effectiveness of implementing 
population-level immune stratification tools within Federal 
healthcare programs and public health initiatives. The study 
should assess impacts on healthcare utilization, infection 
rates, and overall cost of care, and include consideration of 
existing State-level pilot programs as case studies. The 
Committee requests an update on this topic in the fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification.
    Innovative Diagnostics and Connected Healthcare.--The 
Committee notes the important emerging role that point of care 
testing, self-testing, and self-collection can play in 
successful efforts across HHS to respond to sexually 
transmitted diseases like HCV, HIV, HPV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, 
and syphilis. The Committee encourages HHS to further adopt 
diagnostic testing strategies that appropriately incorporate 
point-of-care, self-testing, and self-collection components.
    Kidney Preservation and Utilization Technology.--The 
Committee notes that more than 90,000 Americans are awaiting a 
kidney transplant and that nearly a third of recovered kidneys 
are discarded each year. While there is no precise accounting 
of how many of these organs could be translated with improved 
organ assessment, preservation, allocation, and distribution 
practices, conservative metrics suggest that at least 20 
percent of discarded kidneys may represent potentially 
avoidable nonuse. Existing standard-of-care approaches provide 
limited real-time assessment of kidney viability, reducing 
transplant surgeons' confidence in accepting higher-risk 
organs. Emerging technologies have shown promise in extending 
preservation windows and enabling additional real-time metrics 
which could meaningfully increase donated kidney utilization 
and reduce Medicare dialysis expenditures. The Committee 
requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification detailing: (1) Federal initiatives across ARPA-H, 
NIH, HRSA, and CMS to understand potential opportunities and 
regulatory questions presented by novel kidney preservation and 
viability assessment technologies; (2) the current kidney 
discard rate and utilization trends; (3) actions HHS is taking 
to support the development, validation, and deployment of 
technologies designed to increase kidney utilization; and (4) 
the estimated impact of improved utilization on transplant wait 
times, patient outcomes, and Medicare expenditures.
    Lyme and Other Tick-Borne Diseases Network.--The Committee 
encourages the Secretary and the Director of NIH, in 
consultation with CDC and FDA, to enter into discussions on the 
potential benefits of establishing a National Network of 
Academic Research and Clinical Centers of Excellence for Tick-
Borne Diseases.
    LymeX.--The Committee provides funding to continue the 
LymeX Innovation Accelerator to advance public-private 
partnerships and innovation in Lyme disease prevention 
diagnosis. The Committee encourages the LymeX Innovation 
Accelerator focus to expand beyond diagnostic innovation, to 
accelerate therapeutic innovation and fulfill the original 
vision statement of the program calling for effective 
treatments that all Americans can afford.
    Maternal Health Navigator Programs.--The Committee notes 
the potential for State maternal health navigator programs to 
improve maternal and infant health outcomes while optimizing 
Medicaid expenditure efficiency. Such models illustrate the 
efficacy of targeted care coordination interventions in 
addressing the drivers of maternal morbidity and mortality. The 
Committee urges HHS to evaluate the scalability of successful 
State models. As part of the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification, the Committee requests an update on departmental 
efforts to expand demonstrations related to maternal and infant 
health outcomes.
    Medically Tailored Meals and Produce Prescriptions.--The 
Committee recognizes the importance of Medically Tailored Meals 
(MTMs), Medically Tailored Groceries (MTGs), and Produce 
Prescriptions and notes recent progress to expand access. MTMs 
are customized for patients with severe, complex, or chronic 
conditions based on therapeutic, evidence-based dietary 
specifications. MTGs consist of nutrient-dense groceries--such 
as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins--
provided to individuals based on an assessment of their 
nutritional needs and tailored using disease-specific, 
evidence-based guidance as part of a therapeutic diet plan. A 
Produce Prescription is a medical treatment or preventive 
service for eligible patients due to diet-related health risks 
or conditions, food insecurity, or other documented challenges 
in access to nutritious foods. The Committee encourages the 
Secretary to identify programs and collaborations that could 
facilitate coverage for MTMs, MTGs, and Produce Prescriptions 
and further encourages HHS to work with Congress regarding 
access and coverage of MTMs, MTGs, and Produce Prescriptions.
    Menopause Education for Doctors.--The Committee is aware 
that about 1.3 million women in the U.S. reach menopause each 
year, yet fewer than half report that a healthcare provider has 
advised them about what to expect during this transition, 
including how to manage symptoms. Moreover, menopausal hormone 
therapy (MHT or HRT), the primary treatment for menopause 
symptoms, has declined among postmenopausal women in the U.S. 
from 1999 to 2020 from 26.9 percent to 4.7 percent over two 
decades. The Committee notes that nearly every woman will go 
through menopause and the majority of women report experiencing 
menopause symptoms, which can cause serious impacts on their 
broader health and daily life. Despite the prevalence of 
menopause and the need for associated care, only 31.3 percent 
of OB-GYN residents report having menopause curriculum in their 
residency program. Therefore, the Committee encourages HHS to 
support medical accrediting and education bodies, such as the 
Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, the 
Association of American Medical Colleges, the American 
Association of Continuing Medical Education (CME), and State 
CME organizations, in their efforts to enhance and strengthen 
evidence-based content on menopause. The Committee requests an 
update on this topic in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification.
    National Plan for Epilepsy.--The Committee is aware of the 
enormous economic cost and human suffering resulting from 
epilepsy. Despite epilepsy's prevalence, disproportionate gaps 
exist in research, innovation, awareness, and care. Therefore, 
the Committee encourages HHS to develop the framework for a 
national plan for epilepsy research to facilitate clinically 
meaningful research progress to prevent, diagnose, treat, and 
cure epilepsy and improve the wellbeing of people with epilepsy 
and their families. The Committee requests an update on this 
topic in the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification.
    National Risk Pool for Cell and Gene Therapies.--The 
Committee recognizes that cell and gene therapies offer 
transformative potential for patients with rare, debilitating 
and life-threatening conditions but is concerned that their 
exceptionally high upfront costs and expanding pipeline present 
significant access and affordability challenges within the 
current health insurance framework. The Committee encourages 
the Secretary to conduct a study on the feasibility and impact 
of establishing a national risk pool to finance select high-
cost cell and gene therapies. The study should evaluate how 
such a framework could spread financial risk broadly, promote 
patient access to clinically appropriate therapies, and support 
long-term affordability. In conducting this study, the 
Secretary is encouraged to examine options for mandatory payer 
participation, financing mechanisms such as per-beneficiary 
per-month assessments, the use of outcomes-based contracting 
arrangements to promote value and accountability, criteria to 
limit eligible therapies to those treating the rarest 
conditions or carrying exceptionally high costs and appropriate 
Federal governance structures, and to report findings and any 
legislative recommendations to Congress.
    Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) Study.--The Committee 
recognizes the ongoing impact of neonatal abstinence syndrome 
(NAS) on infants, families, and State Medicaid programs, 
particularly in communities affected by substance use 
disorders. The Committee encourages the Secretary to conduct a 
comprehensive study on the prevalence of NAS and its impact on 
infant and maternal health outcomes associated with pediatric 
transitional care facilities, defined as residential pediatric 
recovery centers that provide inpatient or outpatient treatment 
for infants with NAS. In carrying out this study, the Secretary 
should assess barriers to obtaining valid, accurate, and timely 
data on NAS prevalence among Medicaid beneficiaries, including 
under State plans and waivers authorized under title XIX of the 
Social Security Act. Such a study should further evaluate the 
scope of services and supports available to infants diagnosed 
with NAS under such plans and waivers, including the 
availability and utilization of pediatric transitional care 
facilities. The Committee requests an update on this topic in 
the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification, including any 
recommendations to improve data collection, service delivery, 
and health outcomes for infants with NAS and their mothers.
    Nonrecurring Expenses Fund.--The Committee directs HHS to 
provide quarterly reports for all ongoing projects. The report 
shall include the following for each project: the agency each 
project is funded under; a detailed description for each 
project; the date the project was notified to the Committee; 
total obligations to date; obligations for the prior fiscal 
year; anticipated obligations for the current fiscal year; and 
any expected future obligations. For any project ongoing for 
more than three years, the report should include a narrative 
describing the cause of delay and steps being taken by the 
agency to ensure prompt completion. In addition, the Committee 
requests biannual reports on expired balances that are eligible 
for transfer to the Nonrecurring Expenses Fund (NEF). Such 
report shall include the Treasury Account Fund Symbol, program 
name, unobligated balance, and unexpended balance. Such report 
shall be transmitted 30 days after the close of the second 
quarter and within 45 days after the close of the fourth 
quarter of the fiscal year.
    Obstetric Fistula Training.--The Committee notes that an 
estimated 500,000 women and girls worldwide live with obstetric 
fistula with thousands of additional cases occurring annually. 
Obstetric fistula occurs disproportionately among impoverished, 
vulnerable, and marginalized women and girls. It can be 
prevented by skilled health personnel at birth and emergency 
obstetric and newborn care. The Committee is concerned that 
fistula repairs were widely halted or slowed down due to COVID, 
as they were deemed non-urgent and unsafe during the pandemic. 
This may have resulted in an increased backlog of fistula 
cases. The Committee requests additional information on the 
funding levels provided across HHS to support training for 
health care providers on the subject of obstetric fistula. The 
Committee requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification on the annual funding level for 
training on obstetric fistula over the preceding five fiscal 
years, including the types of grants supported during this 
period.
    Optimization of Federal Resources to Prevent 
Neurodegenerative Disease.--The Committee notes the need to 
strengthen coordination of Federal resources, strengthen our 
nation's public health infrastructure, and prioritize turning 
risk reduction into clinical practice with respect to research, 
training, and health information dissemination related to 
Parkinson's and other neurodegenerative diseases. To accomplish 
these results, the Committee encourages HHS to enhance 
coordination within the Department and consult with the 
Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Defense, and the 
Environmental Protection Agency to include in research programs 
a focus on environmental toxicants and the interactions of such 
toxicants with neurodegenerative diseases. This coordination 
and consultation should include a focus on advancing the 
development of effective actions that address such stressors to 
help prevent, manage, treat, or slow the progression of 
neurodegenerative diseases.
    Oral Health and Preventive Care.--The Committee recognizes 
the importance of evidence-based, topical preventive oral 
health interventions, particularly for children and underserved 
populations. The Committee encourages HHS to continue 
supporting rigorous, transparent, and replicable research, 
education, and best practices related to topical fluoride 
applications, including toothpaste, varnishes, and sealants, 
which act locally on tooth enamel and do not require ingestion. 
The Committee further emphasizes the importance of 
transparency, parental choice, and clear communication 
regarding the appropriate use of such products, and encourages 
HHS to prioritize age-appropriate, indication-based use 
consistent with current clinical guidance to improve oral 
health outcomes.
    Organizational Integrity of the National Center for 
Toxicological Research (NCTR).--The Committee recognizes the 
critical role of the National Center for Toxicological Research 
in conducting toxicological research that supports the missions 
of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of 
Health and Human Services to protect and promote public health 
and the support it provides to FDA product centers to fulfill 
their regulatory roles. The Committee commends the research 
contributions of NCTR, especially in its work to improve the 
nutrition of school lunches, NanoCore research to ensure the 
safety of FDA-regulated products containing nanomaterials, and 
advancements in new approach methods.
    Out of Pocket Hearing Aid Costs.--The Committee is 
concerned with the significant out-of-pocket costs patients may 
face when purchasing prescribed hearing aids. The Committee 
requests a report within 180 days of enactment of this Act 
assessing the coverage of hearing aids in the private 
marketplace, including information on patient cost-sharing and 
average out-of-pocket expenses for individuals with private 
insurance.
    Patient Safety.--The Committee recognizes the importance of 
ensuring that patients are protected during sensitive medical 
examinations and that future physicians are appropriately 
trained on professional conduct and patient safety. The 
Committee encourages the Secretary, in coordination with 
relevant agencies and accreditation bodies, to promote 
education and training for medical students, residents, and 
trainees across medical specialties on the risk factors for 
sexual misconduct in clinical settings and appropriate 
procedures for reporting suspected misconduct.
    Performance Reporting.--As part of the congressional 
justification for fiscal year 2028, the Committee directs the 
Department to include, for the past five fiscal years, the 
percentage of the Senior Executive Service (SES) for each 
performance level rating (5--outstanding, 4--exceeds fully 
successful, 3--fully successful, 2--minimally satisfactory, or 
1--unsatisfactory), broken down by operating division. Such 
information shall include the number of SES for each 
performance level and the average performance bonus paid for 
each performance level listed by operating division. In 
addition, the Department shall include in such justification 
the total amount spent on performance awards for the Senior 
Executive Service and the total number of SES in the Department 
both broken down by operating division.
    PHS Act Evaluation Funding.--The Committee recommendation 
includes amounts made available under section 241 of the PHS 
Act, as specified in the bill. The Committee continues the 
assessment of 2.5 percent. The Committee includes new bill 
language to preserve the nation's biodefense infrastructure 
from assessment. In addition, the Committee no longer includes 
bill language exempting administrative expenses from 
assessment.
    Additionally, as part of the President's Budget Request, 
HHS is directed to provide the Committee, in electronic format, 
tables providing PHS evaluation funding exclusions, 
assessments, and uses for the budget request year. Such tables 
shall also include a column for the most recently executed full 
fiscal year and most recently enacted appropriation. HHS is 
also directed to provide the Committees an updated version of 
this table on a quarterly basis.
    Protective Operations.--The Committee includes not less 
than $20,000,000,000 for protective operations within the funds 
provided under this heading.
    Rare Diseases.--The Committee recognizes that multiple 
Federal departments, agencies, and programs exist to address 
the needs of people impacted by rare diseases and improve the 
lives of members of the rare disease community. The Committee 
encourages enhanced coordination and collaboration across the 
Federal government and encourages the Secretary to develop a 
framework to strengthen interagency coordination for rare 
diseases. Such a framework would focus on optimizing rare 
disease activities across the Federal government and may 
include annual updates assessing all Federal agency activities 
concerning rare diseases, including but not limited to 
regulatory flexibilities in rare disease therapy reviews, 
current and emerging biomedical research opportunities, current 
and future rare disease surveillance and epidemiological 
activities, and analysis and outcomes using Federal program 
data, as well as programs to support rare disease patients and 
caregivers, and overall programmatic funding.
    Restorative Reproductive Medicine General Education.--
Restorative reproductive medicine (RRM) seeks to identify and 
correct underlying causes and factors contributing to 
infertility and reproductive dysfunction. RRM does not employ 
methods that are inherently suppressive, circumventive, or 
destructive and respects the integrity of the human person. RRM 
can employ surgical and nonsurgical responses to reproductive 
dysfunction and infertility, including cycle tracking, targeted 
lab testing, lifestyle interventions, medical and hormonal 
therapies, and corrective surgeries to restore natural 
fertility for both men and women. In the last 50 years, RRM 
approaches have been developed, including addressing underlying 
endocrine, autoimmune, and reproductive health conditions such 
as endometriosis. Endometriosis may affect as many as 10 
percent of women in the U.S. or 7 million women, yet on 
average, it takes 10 years to receive a diagnosis. Further, in 
2022, the NIH allotted only $2 per affected patient for 
research on this condition. The Committee notes that for women 
diagnosed with endometriosis, 30 to 50 percent of these women 
are also diagnosed with infertility and their fecundity rate 
drops from 15 to 20 percent (normal fertility) to 2 to 10 
percent with this disease. For infertility care, doctors must 
be trained or knowledgeable about fertility-preserving 
laparoscopic surgery and specialized in the form of minimally 
invasive gynecologic surgery. One of the aims of laparoscopic 
surgery is to reconstruct the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, 
and other organ structures so that endometriosis can be 
eliminated. The excision of endometriosis can alleviate pain 
and improve fertility preservation. Medical training in this 
type of surgery requires at least one to two additional 
fellowship years for surgeons. Addressing this gap in care is 
crucial, given the rising number of endometriosis diagnoses and 
its relationship with infertility. The Committee notes that 
this education is not currently part of standard medical 
education and often medical professionals are not versed in 
this type of reproductive health care. There is a need for 
further educational opportunities, especially fellowships and 
residency electives. The Committee encourages HHS to explore 
scholarship and loan opportunities for medical students and 
professionals interested in pursuing this specialty. The 
Committee requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification on ongoing and planned research 
activities related to RRM education and training.
    Rural Defense Community Hospitals GAO Study.--The Committee 
recognizes that rural hospitals located near military 
installations provide critical emergency services and health 
care access to civilian workforces, National Guard and Reserve 
families, and communities supporting installation operations. 
The Committee is concerned that hospital closures in rural 
defense communities may adversely impact installation readiness 
and resilience, surge capacity, and local workforce stability. 
The Committee directs GAO to conduct a study to identify rural 
hospitals located within 50 miles of military installations 
that are financially distressed or at risk of closure and 
evaluate options for providing targeted stabilization grants or 
other support under existing authorities. For the purposes of 
this study, rural hospitals shall include Critical Access 
Hospitals, Sole Community Hospitals, Rural PPS hospitals, REH, 
or other rural facilities designated by the Secretary of HHS. 
The Committee directs GAO to provide a preliminary briefing to 
the Committees on Appropriations of the House of 
Representatives and the Senate no later than 12 months after 
enactment of this Act, with a report to follow. The Committee 
directs HHS, including CMS, the Department of Defense, and the 
Department of Agriculture to provide data, analysis, and 
consultation as requested to facilitate the study.
    Rural Health Care Access.--The Committee is concerned with 
Americans' ability to access quality health care in rural or 
remote regions of the country. The Committee encourages HHS to 
provide an analysis of rural health care resources available 
and their utilization. Specifically, the Committee is 
interested in the utilization of primary care, common specialty 
care, surgical care, substance use disorder treatment, and 
mental health. Further, the Committee encourages HHS to include 
in such analysis an assessment of barriers to health care, the 
cost of health care, and morbidity and mortality from a lack of 
access to health care; and recommendations to improve access to 
care in rural and remote locations, especially as it pertains 
to Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, and plans offered under State and 
Federal health insurance marketplaces.
    Rural Hospital Closures and Financial Stability.--The 
Committee is concerned about the ongoing crisis of rural 
hospital closures, which jeopardize health care access in 
medically underserved regions. Rural communities often face 
compounding challenges, including older and sicker populations 
and a higher reliance on public insurance or uncompensated 
care. While the Committee supports continued investments in key 
rural hospital designations--such as Critical Access Hospitals, 
Rural Emergency Hospitals, and Medicare-Dependent Hospitals--
the Committee encourages HHS to evaluate and address the needs 
of rural hospitals that do not fall within these existing 
categories but still face persistent operational and financial 
challenges.
    Rural News Media and Advertising Campaigns.--The Committee 
continues to recognize the critical role that local media plays 
in delivering lifesaving messages to small and rural 
communities. Therefore, the Committee urges the Secretary to 
ensure that local media in small and rural markets are a key 
component in the Department's public health advertising 
campaigns, which is critical to improving the delivery of 
public health messages to these small and rural communities. To 
further this goal, the Committee urges the Secretary, in 
coordination with the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs 
and the Department's buyer contractors, to utilize local news 
media in small and rural areas for public health advertising 
campaigns for HHS and its related agencies to reach citizens 
with key health messages. Local media includes newspapers, 
specifically non-daily newspapers, television, and radio. 
Within 90 days of enactment of this Act, the Committee directs 
the Office of the Secretary to provide an update to the 
Committee on the efforts of the Department in its utilization 
of local media in small and rural areas as part of the 
Department's public health advertising campaigns for fiscal 
year 2027 and plans for subsequent fiscal years. The Committee 
also directs the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, in 
consultation with the CDC's Office of Rural Health, to 
undertake a review of the use of local media in small and rural 
communities in several States in an HHS public health 
advertising campaign for fiscal year 2027 and plans for 
subsequent fiscal years, to better understand their role as a 
key delivery system to reach small and rural communities with 
critically important health messages. The Committee requests an 
update from the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs within 
180 days of enactment of the Act on the status of this review 
and directs HHS to provide a final report by the end of fiscal 
year 2027.
    Rural Residencies Nonhospital Partnerships.--The Committee 
recognizes the important role residency training in rural, non-
hospital settings can have on the recruitment and retention of 
physicians to care for rural and underserved communities. The 
Committee is encouraged that accredited teaching hospitals may 
have residents participate in training rotations at independent 
or rural facilities and non-hospital settings but is concerned 
that the details of such arrangements are largely unknown. 
Therefore, the Committee directs the Assistant Secretary for 
Planning and Evaluation (ASPE), in consultation with MedPAC and 
MACPAC, to provide a report to the Committee that explores the 
current curriculum and financial arrangements between 
accredited teaching hospitals, rotations at independent or 
rural facilities, and non-hospital settings. Additionally, the 
report shall include recommendations on opportunities to 
enhance teaching hospital and non-hospital training 
partnerships through streamlined financial support and 
technical assistance programs. In addition, the Committee 
encourages CMS and HRSA to take steps to expand rural residency 
partnerships between hospitals and non-hospital settings. The 
Committee requests an update on this topic in the fiscal year 
2028 congressional justification.
    Staffing Reports.--The Department is directed to provide 
staffing reports to the Committee consistent with the 
requirements specified under this heading in General 
Departmental Management in Senate Report 119-55.
    Strengthening Nursing Workforce Pipelines.--The Committee 
encourages the Secretary and the Secretary of Labor, jointly, 
to conduct a review of all grant programs carried out by HHS or 
DOL that support the nurse workforce and submit a report to the 
Committee that includes recommendations for changes to such 
grant programs to improve upon the goals of increasing nurse 
faculty, particularly in underserved areas; providing pathways 
for nurses who have more than 10 years of clinical experience 
to become faculty at schools of nursing; and encouraging and 
increasing the nursing pipeline through pathways for licensed 
practical nurses to become registered nurses.
    Support for Rural Hospitals.--The Committee is concerned 
that access to health care services in rural communities 
remains under severe strain, with patients often forced to 
travel long distances to obtain even basic care. Reports 
indicate that more than 30 percent of rural hospitals are at 
risk of closure. Since 2010, 167 rural hospitals have closed 
nationwide, with an additional 418 considered vulnerable to 
closure. The Committee recognizes that many rural health 
facilities lack the resources necessary to modernize aging 
infrastructure and integrate advanced medical technologies. 
Accordingly, the Committee supports efforts to strengthen rural 
health systems, improve access to care, and prevent further 
hospital closures. The Committee urges the Secretary to 
prioritize the needs of rural health facilities when 
implementing Department-administered programs and grants.
    Use of Advanced Monitoring Technologies in Obstetric and 
Clinical Care.--The Committee encourages the Department to 
support, as appropriate, the evaluation, implementation, and 
adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) enabled continuous 
patient monitoring technologies in obstetric and surgical care 
settings. These systems can provide clinicians with ongoing, 
real-time insights supported by predictive analytics that help 
identify early signs of patient hemodynamic instability and 
guide timely intervention. The Committee encourages HHS to 
collaborate with clinical leaders, professional societies, and 
research institutions to develop implementation guidance, 
support workforce training, and drive the clinical behavior 
change needed to fully integrate appropriate continuous, AI-
enabled monitoring into routine care for individuals undergoing 
cesarean delivery and other surgical procedures.
    Veterans' Opioid Prescribing Practices.--The Committee is 
concerned about the continued risks associated with opioid 
prescribing among veterans, particularly given high rates of 
chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain 
injury, and co-occurring substance use disorders. The Committee 
notes the need for improved understanding of prescribing 
practices, acute exposure risks, and pathways to long-term use 
within the veteran population. Therefore, the Committee urges 
HHS, in cooperation with the Department of Veterans Affairs, to 
submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations of the 
House of Representatives and the Senate detailing: (1) current 
opioid prescribing policies and adherence to clinical 
guidelines across VA facilities; (2) trends over the past five 
fiscal years, including initial prescribing for acute pain, 
dosage, and duration; (3) rates of transition from acute to 
chronic opioid use; (4) data on adverse outcomes, including 
overdose, dependency, and interactions with other medications; 
(5) oversight and enforcement mechanisms to identify and 
address inappropriate prescribing; (6) use of non-opioid and 
non-pharmacologic pain management options; and (7) coordination 
with SAMHSA, NIDA, and other relevant agencies to advance 
research on veteran-specific opioid risks and improve 
prescribing practices.
    Workforce Preparedness for Neuroplastogens.--The Committee 
notes recent developments related to novel neuroplastogens and 
rapid-acting treatments for complex neuropsychiatric and 
neurocognitive conditions. The Committee requests an update in 
the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification on any 
associated interagency work between HHS and the Department of 
Veterans Affairs related to workforce readiness, including any 
training and credentialing programs, and any associated 
concerns that emerge.

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health

    Lyme and Other Tick-Borne Diseases.--The Committee 
encourages the Secretary to work with the Director of NIH to 
evaluate the potential benefits of expanding the Tick-Borne 
Diseases (TBD) portfolio to other Institutes and Centers in 
addition to NIAID. Due to the profound neurologic involvement 
of TBD, such as Lyme disease, NINDS and NIMH may make major 
contributions to the study of TBD, such as developing novel 
treatments for neurologic symptoms, including severe neurologic 
symptoms in children. Due to the severe impacts of TBD on 
children, NICHD may also greatly enhance NIH accomplishments in 
developing tools to manage pediatric cases of TBD. The 
Committee strongly encourages the Secretary to establish within 
OASH a Tick-Borne disease coordinating office to track, monitor 
and provide technical assistance on TBD activities throughout 
HHS, including its operating divisions, and to serve as an HHS-
wide facilitator for TBD activities. The coordinating office 
should monitor and report to the Secretary on implementing 
``The National Public Health Strategy to Prevent and Control 
Vector-Borne Diseases in People.'' The Committee further 
encourages the OASH TBD Coordinating Office to establish a 
program for temporary agency/stakeholder panels or commissions 
to address a need or gap related to TBD goals and objectives in 
an HHS agency or across agencies. Such panels should consist of 
a range of stakeholders, similar to the TBD Working Group 
(TBDWG), except on a smaller scale, to operate for a short 
period of time to address a particular need or gap in the TBD 
knowledge base or TBD activity. The overarching purpose is to 
facilitate transitioning products to patients, health care 
practitioners, researchers, academia (including VBD Centers of 
Excellence), industry, and State and local governments. The 
Committee commends OASH and CDC for building on the six years 
of dedication of numerous TBDWG participants. Although the 
TBDWG is now sunset, the Committee commends its participants 
and other stakeholders, including patients, patient advocates, 
researchers, clinicians, and Federal staff, who made sacrifices 
from their professional and personal lives in the hope of 
helping patients and their care providers.
    Nutrition Continuing Medical Education.--The Committee 
recognizes the Administration's emphasis on strengthening 
nutrition education across the medical education continuum and 
notes that accredited continuing medical education (CME) has 
the potential to serve as an effective and scalable mechanism 
to improve clinicians' ability to deliver evidence-based 
nutrition counseling and related practice change. The Committee 
is concerned, however, that expanded expectations for 
clinicians and accredited CME providers to advance this 
priority without dedicated support would limit participation 
and reduce impact. Therefore, the Committee encourages the 
Secretary, acting through the Assistant Secretary for Health, 
and in coordination with the Office of Disease Prevention and 
Health Promotion, the CDC, HRSA, and other relevant agencies, 
to support accredited CME providers to develop, disseminate, 
and evaluate independent, evidence-based nutrition CME for 
physicians and other health professionals. The Committee 
requests an update on this topic in the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification.

Office of Minority Health

    The Committee includes $45,000,000 for the Office of 
Minority Health (OMH), which is equal to the fiscal year 2027 
budget request.
    OMH works with public health service agencies and other 
agencies of the Department to address the health status and 
quality of life for minority populations in the United States. 
OMH develops and implements new policies; partners with States, 
Tribes, and communities through cooperative agreements; 
supports research, demonstration, and evaluation projects; and 
disseminates information.
    Within the total provided for OMH, the Committee provides 
not less than the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Center for Indigenous Innovation           $6,000,000         $6,000,000
 and Health.......................
Improving Maternal Health Outcomes         10,000,000         10,000,000
National Lupus Training, Outreach,          3,000,000          3,000,000
 and Clinical Trial Education.....
Promoting Language Access Services          4,000,000          4,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Center for Indigenous Innovation and Health.--The Committee 
continues to recognize the importance of advancing Indigenous 
solutions to achieve health excellence. The Committee includes 
funding to support the work of the Center for Indigenous 
Innovation and Health. The Committee supports HHS in its 
partnerships with universities with a focus on Indigenous 
health research and policy among Native Americans and Alaska 
Natives, as well as universities with a focus on Indigenous 
health policy and innovation among Native Hawaiians/Pacific 
Islanders.
    National Lupus Training, Outreach, and Clinical Trial 
Education.--The Committee continues to support the National 
Lupus Outreach and Clinical Trial Education program and its 
goal of increasing participation in lupus clinical trials while 
ensuring that study populations are representative of the 
broader lupus population. While approximately 140 lupus 
clinical trials are currently underway in the U.S. and progress 
has been made in raising awareness of research opportunities, 
challenges persist. These challenges include identifying 
individuals who are representative of the lupus population who 
meet trial eligibility criteria but may be unaware of available 
studies. Additionally, evidence indicates that many eligible 
patients are not informed about clinical trial opportunities by 
their healthcare providers. Therefore, the Committee encourages 
OMH to support efforts such as patient registries, peer-to-peer 
education and training programs, and targeted provider 
outreach, which improve awareness of research and clinical 
trial opportunities. Importantly, these strategies can 
facilitate increased participation among those living with 
lupus, especially among those who most commonly develop lupus, 
but who are underrepresented in lupus research and clinical 
trials.

Office on Women's Health

    The Committee includes $30,000,000 for the Office on 
Women's Health (OWH), which is equal to the fiscal year 2027 
budget request.
    OWH provides consultation to the Secretary on women's 
health and establishes short and long-range goals and 
objectives for women's health within the Department. OWH 
monitors activities regarding women's health and coordinates 
across the Department on disease prevention, health promotion, 
service delivery, research, public and health care professional 
education, and other women's health concerns throughout their 
lifespan. OWH leads the coordination of activities to promote 
women's health programs and policies with the private sector 
and to share information with the public. OWH also leads the 
Coordinating Committee on Women's Health and the National 
Women's Health Information Center.
    Within the total provided for OWH, the Committee provides 
not less than the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Combatting Violence Against Women.        $10,100,000        $10,100,000
Eating Disorders Research.........          1,000,000          1,000,000
Pregnant and Lactating Women's                200,000            200,000
 Advisory Committee...............
Reporting on Access to Medical              5,000,000          5,000,000
 Forensic Exams...................
Stillbirth Working Group..........          2,000,000          2,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Eating Disorders Research.--The Committee includes funding 
for OWH to continue prioritizing projects to support early 
detection and treatment protocols for women and girls with or 
at-risk of developing an eating disorder. The Committee urges 
OWH to coordinate with SAMHSA's Center of Excellence for Eating 
Disorders, outside organizations, eating disorders specialists, 
and other groups as necessary to identify research needs of 
eating disorders among women and girls.
    Pregnant and Lactating Women's Advisory Committee.--The 
Committee includes funding for the advisory committee to 
continue activities within the 2020 Task Force on Research 
Specific to Pregnant and Lactating Women (PRGLAC) 
Implementation Plan. The Committee requests an update in the 
fiscal year 2028 congressional justification on progress and 
Federal activities undertaken to implement the PRGLAC 
recommendations and suggestions for further implementation.
    Stillbirth Working Group.--The Committee includes funding 
for the Secretary to prioritize implementation of the 
Stillbirth Working Group's recommendations across the 
Department and to continue to engage in efforts to promote 
evidence-based stillbirth awareness and prevention activities. 
The Committee looks forward to reviewing the Department's 
report on its progress, as requested in House Report 119-271 
and Senate Report 119-55. The Committee directs the Secretary 
to continue to prioritize the Department-wide implementation of 
the Stillbirth Working Group's recommendations and engage in 
efforts to promote evidence-based stillbirth awareness and 
prevention activities. The Committee further directs the 
Department to prioritize (1) improved data collection and 
surveillance systems including the modernization of fetal death 
reporting and interstate data harmonization, (2) identification 
of evidence-based risk reduction strategies, especially in 
disproportionately affected populations, and (3) initiatives to 
support maternal mental health and bereavement care. The 
Committee directs the Department to provide a report to the 
Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives 
and the Senate on the progress made toward these directives and 
the implementation of the Working Group's recommendations and 
to make such report available on the agency's website within 
180 days of enactment of this Act.

Minority HIV/AIDS Fund

    The Committee includes $20,000,000 for the Secretary's 
Minority HIV/AIDS Fund (MHAF).
    Tribal Set-Aside.--The Committee notes that according to 
the CDC, HIV-positive status among Native Americans is 
increasing and nearly one-in-five HIV-positive Native Americans 
is unaware of their status. In addition, only three-in-five 
receive care and less than half are virally suppressed. To 
increase access to HIV/AIDS testing, prevention, and treatment, 
the Committee reserves not less than $6,000,000 as a Tribal 
set-aside within the total provided for MHAF.

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Administration

Cybersecurity

    The Committee provides $100,000,000 for information 
technology cybersecurity to strengthen the Department's 
cybersecurity posture. The Committee recognizes the growing 
cybersecurity risks facing the health sector. The Committee 
supports the Department's ongoing efforts to modernize the ATO 
process through the deployment of AI and automated 
cybersecurity compliance and risk management tools, which 
reduce administrative burden, improve continuous visibility 
into security controls, and strengthen oversight of third-party 
vendors. Not later than 180 days after the enactment of this 
Act, the Department shall brief the Committee on the status of 
deployment, an assessment of the efficiency and cybersecurity 
posture impacts, and plans to further deploy automated 
compliance tools across the Department.

Office of National Security

    The Committee provides $8,983,000 for the Office of 
National Security to maintain the security of the Department's 
personnel, systems, and critical infrastructure.

Office of Global Affairs

    The Committee provides $7,009,000 for the Office of Global 
Affairs to coordinate HHS policy to strengthen U.S. health 
security.

                     MEDICARE HEARINGS AND APPEALS

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $186,155,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       185,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       185,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        -1,155,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    This appropriation supports activities carried out by two 
Office of the Secretary Staff Divisions. The Office of Medicare 
Hearings and Appeals supports Medicare appeals at the 
administrative law judge level, the third level of Medicare 
claims appeals. The Departmental Appeals Board represents the 
fourth level of the Medicare appeals process and provides 
impartial, independent hearings and appellate reviews.

             OFFICE OF THE NATIONAL COORDINATOR FOR HEALTH 
                         INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $69,238,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        50,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        60,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        -9,238,000
    Change from budget request........................       +10,000,000
 

    The Office of the National Coordinator for Health 
Information Technology (ONC) is the principal Federal entity 
charged with coordinating efforts to implement and use health 
information technology and exchange electronic health 
information.
    Of the funds provided, $35,863,000 shall be derived from 
evaluation set aside funds available under section 241 of the 
PHS Act.
    In addition to the funds provided, the Committee notes that 
ONC plans to obligate $18,000,000 of available recoveries to 
advance interoperability standards, scale and accelerate 
trusted health information exchange, and develop advanced 
testing tools.
    Patient Matching.--The Committee is concerned there is no 
consistent and accurate way to link patients to their health 
information as they seek care across the continuum. Health 
information must be accurate, timely, and robust to inform 
clinical care decisions for every patient. The recommendation 
includes not less than $3,000,000 for ONC to work with industry 
to develop matching standards that prioritize interoperability, 
patient safety, and patient privacy.
    Vetting Participants in the Trusted Exchange Framework and 
Common Agreement (TEFCA).--The Committee supports ONC 
allocating sufficient resources to vet organizations seeking to 
join TEFCA, including Qualified Health Information Networks 
(QHINs), participants, and subparticipants. The Committee 
recognizes the importance of ensuring that entities 
participating in TEFCA meet rigorous standards for security, 
privacy, and operational integrity. As TEFCA scales nationally, 
appropriate safeguards are necessary to maintain trust in 
nationwide health information exchange. This vetting should 
include, but is not limited to, strengthening eligibility 
verification procedures for applicants, reviewing publicly 
available business descriptions, implementing ongoing 
compliance monitoring and auditing mechanisms, and coordinating 
with other Federal agencies, as appropriate, to assess security 
and fraud risks. The Committee requests that ONC include the 
following information in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification: (1) current participant vetting procedures; (2) 
identified gaps in oversight or risk management; and (3) 
planned enhancements supported by funds provided in this Act.

                      OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $87,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        77,650,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        87,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................        +9,350,000
 

    The Committee recommends $87,00,000 for the Office of 
Inspector General, which is equal to the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level.
    In addition, within the Health Care Fraud and Abuse Control 
program discretionary appropriations for fiscal year 2027, the 
Committee provides the OIG with $109,735,000, which is 
$1,000,000 above the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. Mandatory 
appropriations for this office are also contained in the HCFAC 
program and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability 
Act of 1996.
    The Committee supports the OIG as an independent and 
objective entity charged with conducting oversight, preventing 
waste, fraud and abuse, and promoting economy, efficiency, and 
effectiveness in the Department's programs and operations.

                        OFFICE FOR CIVIL RIGHTS

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $39,798,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        42,780,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        39,798,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................        -2,982,000
 

    The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is responsible for 
enforcing civil rights statutes that prohibit discrimination in 
health and human services programs. OCR implements the civil 
rights laws through a compliance program designed to generate 
voluntary compliance among all HHS recipients.
    Patient Health Information Regulation.--The Committee 
recognizes that OCR has been working on matters pertaining to 
regulatory barriers that impede the delivery of coordinated, 
value-based care. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) 
published on January 21, 2021 (HHS-OCR-0945-AA00) was intended 
to modify existing patient privacy regulations to support 
coordinated care, case management, and value-based care while 
protecting the privacy and security of electronic protected 
health information (ePHI). However, the Committee remains 
concerned that this draft NPRM could have unintended 
consequences, such as granting unprecedented access to valuable 
health information by commercial entities as well as eroding 
patient privacy protections through disclosure of more 
information than necessary to third-party interests, most of 
whom operate outside the bounds of HIPAA. The Committee also 
remains concerned that the NPRM, as drafted, could shift the 
growing economic burden of fulfilling requests for ePHI 
securely and lawfully from commercial requestors to the 
healthcare system. Therefore, the Committee urges the Secretary 
to withdraw and rescind the proposed ``HIPAA Privacy Rule: 
Changes to Support the Use of Telecommunications Relay Services 
and Improve Information Sharing for Uniformed Services 
Personnel.''
    Protection of Conscience Rights.--The Committee maintains 
the Weldon Amendment, which protects the conscience rights of 
Americans by prohibiting Federal, State, or local government 
discrimination against health care entities that decline to pay 
for, or provide coverage of, abortion. The Committee commends 
OCR for taking comprehensive action to enforce conscience 
rights and protect human life.
    Report on Antisemitism in Health Care.--The Committee looks 
forward to receiving the report required under this heading in 
House Report 119-271.

                RETIREMENT PAY AND MEDICAL BENEFITS FOR 
                         COMMISSIONED OFFICERS

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $947,182,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       967,192,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       967,192,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +20,010,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Committee provides for retirement pay and medical 
benefits of Public Health Service Commissioned Officers, for 
payments under the Retired Serviceman's Family Protection Plan, 
and for medical care of dependents and retired personnel.

                           General Provisions

    Sec. 201. The Committee continues a provision to limit the 
amount available for official reception and representation 
expenses.
    Sec. 202. The Committee continues a provision to limit the 
salary of an individual through an HHS grant or other 
extramural mechanism to not more than the rate of Executive 
Level II.
    Sec. 203. The Committee continues a provision to prohibit 
the Secretary from using evaluation set aside funds until the 
Committees on Appropriations receive a report detailing the 
planned use of such funds.
    Sec. 204. The Committee modifies a provision regarding the 
use of PHS evaluation set aside.

                          (TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

    Sec. 205. The Committee continues a provision permitting 
the Secretary of HHS to transfer up to one percent of any 
discretionary funds between appropriations, provided that no 
appropriation is increased by more than three percent by any 
such transfer to meet emergency needs. Notification must be 
provided to the Committees on Appropriations at the program, 
project, and activity level in advance of any such transfer.
    Sec. 206. The Committee modifies a provision providing 60-
day flexibility for National Health Service Corps contract 
terminations.
    Sec. 207. The Committee continues a provision to prohibit 
the use of Title X funds unless the applicant for the award 
certifies to the Secretary that it encourages family 
participation in the decision of minors to seek family planning 
services and that it provides counseling to minors on how to 
resist attempts to coerce minors into engaging in sexual 
activities.
    Sec. 208. The Committee continues a provision stating that 
no provider of services under Title X shall be exempt from any 
law requiring notification or the reporting of child abuse, 
child molestation, sexual abuse, rape, or incest.
    Sec. 209. The Committee continues a provision related to 
the Medicare Advantage program.
    Sec. 210. The Committee continues a provision prohibiting 
funds from being used to advocate or promote gun control.
    Sec. 211. The Committee modifies a provision to allow 
funding for HHS international HIV/AIDS and other infectious 
diseases, chronic and environmental disease, and other health 
activities abroad to be spent under the State Department Basic 
Authorities Act of 1956.

                          (TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

    Sec. 212. The Committee continues a provision to provide 
the Director of NIH, jointly with the Director of the Office of 
AIDS Research, the authority to transfer up to three percent of 
human immunodeficiency virus funds.

                          (TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

    Sec. 213. The Committee continues a provision that makes 
NIH funds for human immunodeficiency virus research available 
to the Office of AIDS Research.
    Sec. 214. The Committee continues a provision granting 
authority to the Office of the Director of the NIH to enter 
directly into transactions in order to implement the NIH Common 
Fund for medical research and permitting the Director to 
utilize peer review procedures, as appropriate, to obtain 
assessments of scientific and technical merit.
    Sec. 215. The Committee continues a provision clarifying 
that funds appropriated to NIH institutes and centers may be 
used for minor repairs or improvements to their buildings, up 
to $5,000,000 per project with a total limit for NIH of 
$100,000,000.

                          (TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

    Sec. 216. The Committee continues a provision transferring 
one percent of the funding made available for National 
Institutes of Health National Research Service Awards to the 
Health Resources and Services Administration.
    Sec. 217. The Committee continues the Biomedical Advanced 
Research and Development Authority ten-year contract authority.
    Sec. 218. The Committee modifies a provision requiring HHS 
to include information regarding full-time Federal employees 
and contractors working on the Affordable Care Act in the 
fiscal year 2028 budget request.
    Sec. 219. The Committee modifies a provision for a report 
on CMS's Health Insurance Exchange activities in the fiscal 
year 2028 budget request.
    Sec. 220. The Committee continues a provision prohibiting 
the CMS Program Management account from being used to support 
risk corridor payments.

                          (TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

    Sec. 221. The Committee modifies a provision directing the 
spending of the Prevention and Public Health Fund.

                   PREVENTION AND PUBLIC HEALTH FUND

    In fiscal year 2027, the level appropriated for the fund is 
$1,438,075,000 after accounting for sequestration. The 
Committee includes bill language in section 221 of this Act 
that requires that funds be transferred within 45 days of 
enactment of this Act to the following accounts, for the 
following activities, and in the following amounts:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   Agency                           Budget Activity          FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ACL........................................  Alzheimer's Disease Program..        $14,700,000        $14,700,000
ACL........................................  Chronic Disease Self-                  8,000,000          8,000,000
                                              Management.
ACL........................................  Falls Prevention.............          5,000,000          5,000,000
CDC........................................  Section 317 Immunization             596,390,000        696,933,000
                                              Grants.
CDC........................................  Epidemiology and Laboratory           40,000,000         55,000,000
                                              Capacity.
CDC........................................  Healthcare-Associated                 12,000,000         12,000,000
                                              Infections.
CDC........................................  Tobacco......................        200,000,000        200,000,000
CDC........................................  Heart Disease and Stroke.....        111,105,000        115,312,000
CDC........................................  Diabetes.....................        118,130,000        118,130,000
CDC........................................  Million Hearts Program.......          5,000,000              - - -
CDC........................................  National Early Child Care              5,000,000          5,000,000
                                              Collaboratives.
CDC........................................  Hospitals Promoting                    9,750,000              - - -
                                              Breastfeeding.
CDC........................................  Public Health Data                         - - -         45,000,000
                                              Modernization.
CDC........................................  Childhood Lead Poisoning.....         51,000,000         51,000,000
CDC........................................  Preventative Health and              160,000,000              - - -
                                              Health Services Block Grants.
CDC........................................  Public Health Infrastructure          90,000,000        100,000,000
                                              and Capacity.
SAMHSA.....................................  Garrett Lee Smith--Youth              12,000,000         12,000,000
                                              Suicide Prevention.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Sec. 222. The Committee modifies a provision related to 
breast cancer screening.
    Sec. 223. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
NIH facilities and administration costs.

                          (TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

    Sec. 224. The Committee continues a provision permitting 
transfer of funds within NIH, if such funds are related to 
opioid and pain management research.
    Sec. 225. The Committee continues a provision related to 
certain Congressional notification requirements.
    Sec. 226. The Committee continues a provision related to 
funding for the Medicare program.
    Sec. 227. The Committee modifies a provision related to a 
biannual reporting requirement.
    Sec. 228. The Committee continues a provision allowing HHS 
to cover travel expenses when necessary for employees to obtain 
medical care when they are assigned to duty in a location with 
a public health emergency.
    Sec. 229. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
donations for Early Head Start programs.
    Sec. 230. The Committee continues a provision related to 
donations for unaccompanied alien children.
    Sec. 231. The Committee continues a provision related to 
the notification requirements regarding the use of facilities 
that are not State licensed for the care of unaccompanied alien 
children.
    Sec. 232. The Committee continues a provision related to 
Members of Congress and oversight of facilities responsible for 
the care of unaccompanied alien children.
    Sec. 233. The Committee continues a provision requiring 
monthly reporting on unaccompanied alien children who were 
separated from their parents or legal guardians and transferred 
to the care of the Office of Refugee Resettlement.
    Sec. 234. The Committee continues a provision related to 
primary and secondary school costs for eligible dependents of 
personnel stationed in a U.S. territory.
    Sec. 235. The Committee modifies a provision related to CDC 
funding.
    Sec. 236. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
research, testing, or experimentation on dogs or cats.

                              (RESCISSION)

    Sec. 237. The Committee modifies a provision related to 
unobligated balances in the Nonrecurring Expenses Fund.
    Sec. 238. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
fetal tissue.
    Sec. 239. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
physician training for abortions.
    Sec. 240. The Committee includes a new provision 
restricting funding to certain health care entities.
    Sec. 241. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
providing information on abortion.
    Sec. 242. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
referral for abortions.
    Sec. 243. The Committee includes a new provision limiting 
funding for certain elective services.
    Sec. 244. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
placement of unaccompanied alien children.
    Sec. 245. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
a public health emergency and a citizen's Second Amendment 
rights.
    Sec. 246. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
civil actions for certain designated violations of law.
    Sec. 247. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
placements of unaccompanied alien children.
    Sec. 248. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
research on firearm-related restrictions or policies.
    Sec. 249. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
research on vertebrate animals.
    Sec. 250. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
the activities of the Interagency Coordinating Committee on the 
Prevention of Underage Drinking.
                   TITLE III--DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION


 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................   $78,793,603,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................    77,192,582,000
Committee Recommendation..............................    70,655,376,000
    Change from enacted level.........................    -8,138,227,000
    Change from budget request........................    -6,537,206,000
 

    The Committee commends the Department for its budget 
proposals aimed at improving educational outcomes for students, 
from K-12 education through education and training 
opportunities beyond high school. The Committee commends the 
Department's emphasis on literacy, which is critical for 
students' academic success throughout their schooling and 
necessary in life. The Committee also commends the Department's 
empowerment of States, in recognition that education is 
fundamentally a local and State responsibility. Similarly, the 
Committee appreciates the Department's consideration of ways to 
create efficiencies in Federal programs. Additionally, the 
Committee notes the Department's efforts to assist millions of 
borrowers with federally held student loans in returning to 
repayment, including assisting struggling borrowers and 
safeguard Federal funds.

              Office of Elementary and Secondary Education


                    EDUCATION FOR THE DISADVANTAGED

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $19,127,790,00
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................    20,426,802,000
Committee Recommendation..............................    16,790,647,000
    Change from enacted level.........................    -2,337,143,000
    Change from budget request........................    -3,636,155,000
 

    This appropriation account includes compensatory education 
programs authorized under title I and subpart 2 of part B of 
title II of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 
(ESEA) and section 418A of the Higher Education Act (HEA).
    Of the total amount available, $5,949,470 is appropriated 
for fiscal year 2027 for obligation on or after July 1, 2027, 
and $10,841,177,000 is appropriated for fiscal year 2028 for 
obligation on or after October 1, 2027.

Grants to Local Educational Agencies

    For fiscal year 2027, the Committee provides 
$16,531,647,000 for Title I grants to Local Educational 
Agencies (LEAs or school districts).
    High-Quality Tutoring.--The Committee encourages the 
Department to promote and provide technical assistance to LEAs 
and support partnerships between LEAs and education-related 
community-based organizations to implement evidence-based 
tutoring models.

Basic Grants

    Of the amounts provided for Title I programs, the Committee 
provides $5,036,746,000 for Basic Grants to LEAs, which is 
$1,422,655,000 below the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. Of 
this amount, $763,776,000 is available for fiscal year 2028.
    Basic grants are awarded to school districts with at least 
10 low-income children who make up more than 2 percent of the 
school-age population.

Concentration Grants

    The Committee provides $1,362,301,000, the same as the 
fiscal year 2027 budget request and fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level for Title I Concentration Grants.
    These grants target funds to school districts in which the 
number of low-income children exceeds 6,500 or 15 percent of 
the total school-age population.

Targeted Grants

    The Committee provides $5,066,300,000, which is 
$236,250,000 below the fiscal year 2027 budget request and the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level for Title I Targeted Grants. 
Within this amount, $4,357,550,000 is available for fiscal year 
2028.
    Targeted Grants provide higher payments to school districts 
with high numbers or percentages of low-income students.

Education Finance Incentive Grants

    The Committee provides $5,066,300,000, which is 
$236,250,000 below the fiscal year 2027 budget request and the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level for Title I Education Finance 
Incentive Grants. Within this amount, $4,357,550,000 is 
available for fiscal year 2028.
    These funds are allocated according to one of the four 
allocation formulas authorized under ESEA Title I, Part A for 
providing Federal education funding to the States for the 
education of disadvantaged students.

Innovative Approaches to Literacy

    The Committee provides $40,000,000 for the Innovative 
Approaches to Literacy program, which is $10,000,000 above the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level. This program provides 
competitive grants to support school libraries.
    Innovative Approaches to Literacy.--The Committee 
encourages the Department to use a portion of the funds under 
this program for grants to pediatric literacy programs that are 
provided during well-child visits by medical providers trained 
in evidence-based methods of early language and literacy.
    Literacy Coaches.--The Committee is concerned with the 
decline in literacy rates across the majority of U.S. and 
recognizes the need to equip educators with the resources to 
address this literacy crisis. The Committee supports literacy 
coaches in schools to improve high-quality reading curriculum, 
educator preparation, and institutional literacy support.
    Science of Reading.--The Committee commends the success of 
States such as Louisiana, California, and Mississippi, for 
providing a roadmap to nationwide success in raising reading 
scores through implementing methods aligned with the Science of 
Reading. The Committee encourages the Department to ensure 
federal funds support only the highest quality professional 
development and curricula based on well-established, evidence-
based instructional methods. Federally funded programs should 
be required to demonstrate efficacy and impact through high-
quality, independently validated research, and statistically 
significant improvements in student outcomes.
    Restriction on Funds from the People's Republic of China.--
The Committee is concerned that local education agencies 
receiving support from the Government of the People's Republic 
of China for cultural or language institutes, including 
Confucius Classrooms and similar programs, may create 
vulnerabilities in the educational environment.

Comprehensive Literacy Development Grants

    The Committee provides $219,000,000 for the Comprehensive 
Literacy Development Grants, which is $219,000,000 above the 
fiscal year 2027 budget request and 25,000,000 above the fiscal 
year 2026 enacted level. This program supports competitive 
grants to States to subgrant to school districts and/or early 
education programs to improve literacy instruction for 
disadvantaged students.
    The Committee is encouraged by the effective implementation 
of Science of Reading-based programs, including high-quality 
curriculum, educator preparation, and early childhood reading 
interventions. The Committee encourages the Department to 
support programs aligned with the Science of Reading and 
supported by strong or moderate evidence. Further, the 
Committee directs the Department to brief the Committee, within 
90 days of enactment of this Act, on its plan to expend fiscal 
year 2027 funds.
    State Agency Programs: Migrant The Committee does not 
provide funding for the State Agency Program for Migrant 
Education, which is consistent with the fiscal year 2027 budget 
request.
    This formula grant program supports special educational and 
related services for children of migrant agricultural workers 
and fishermen, including: (1) supplementary academic education; 
(2) remedial or compensatory instruction; (3) English for 
limited English proficient students; (4) testing; (5) guidance 
counseling; and (6) other activities to promote coordination of 
services across States for migrant children whose education is 
interrupted by frequent moves.
    The Committee has chosen to prioritize funding for local 
school districts to improve student outcomes in the core 
curriculum of writing, reading comprehension, and math.

State Agency Programs: Neglected and Delinquent/High Risk Youth

    The Committee does not provide funding for the State Agency 
Program for Neglected and Delinquent Children, which is the 
same as the fiscal year 2027 budget request and $49,239,000 
below the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    This formula grant program supports educational services 
for children and youth under age 21 in State-run institutions, 
attending community day programs, and in correctional 
facilities. A portion of these funds are provided for projects 
that support the successful reentry of youth from the criminal 
justice system into postsecondary and vocational programs.
    The Committee has chosen to prioritize funding for local 
school districts to improve student outcomes in the core 
curriculum of writing, reading comprehension, and math.

Special Programs for Migrant Students

    The Committee does not provide funding for the Special 
Programs for Migrant Students, which is the same as the fiscal 
year 2027 budget request and $52,123,000 below the fiscal year 
2026 enacted level.
    These programs make competitive grants to colleges, 
universities, and nonprofit organizations to support 
educational programs designed for students who are engaged in 
migrant and other seasonal farm work. The High School 
Equivalency Program recruits migrant students aged 16 and over 
and provides academic and support services to help those 
students obtain a high school equivalency certificate and 
subsequently to gain employment or admission to a postsecondary 
institution or training program. The College Assistance Migrant 
Program provides tutoring and counseling services to first-
year, undergraduate migrant students and assists those students 
in obtaining student financial aid for their remaining 
undergraduate years.
    The Committee has chosen to prioritize funding for local 
school districts to improve student outcomes in the core 
curriculum of writing, reading comprehension, and math.

                               IMPACT AID

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $1,630,151,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     1,630,151,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     1,635,151,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        +5,000,000
    Change from budget request........................        +5,000,000
 

    This account supports payments to school districts affected 
by Federal activities, such as those that educate children 
whose families are connected with the military or who live on 
Indian land.

Basic Support Payments

    The Committee provides $1,480,000,000 for Basic Support 
Payments to LEAs, which is an increase of $3,000,000 from the 
fiscal year 2027 budget request and the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level.
    Basic Support Payments compensate school districts for lost 
tax revenue and are made on behalf of Federally connected 
children, such as children of members of the uniformed services 
who live on Federal property.
    Compact Migrant Populations.--The Committee notes 
disproportionate impact and financial costs associated with 
providing resources to compact migrant populations, as 
identified in a June 2020 Government Accountability Office 
(GAO) report (GAO-20-491). In fiscal years 2004-2018, Hawaii, 
Guam, and the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands reported 
estimated costs totaling $3.2 billion. While these States and 
territories receive Federal assistance on food, housing, and 
healthcare to support these populations, the Committee notes 
the increased financial burden on other public systems, 
including education.

Payments for Children with Disabilities

    The Committee provides $50,316,000 for Payments for 
Children with Disabilities, which is an increase of $1,000,000 
from the fiscal year 2027 budget request and the fiscal year 
2026 enacted level.
    These payments compensate school districts for the 
increased costs of serving Federally connected children with 
disabilities.

Facilities Maintenance

    The Committee provides $4,835,000 for Facilities 
Maintenance, which is the same as the fiscal year 2027 budget 
request and the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    Capital payments are authorized for maintenance of certain 
facilities owned by the Department.

Construction

    The Committee provides $19,000,000 for the Construction 
program, which is the same as the fiscal year 2027 budget 
request and the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    This program provides formula grants for building and 
renovating school facilities to school districts that educate 
Federally connected students or have Federally owned land.

Payments for Federal Property

    The Committee provides $81,000,000 for payments for Federal 
property, which is a $1,000,000 increase from the fiscal year 
2027 budget and the and the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    Funds are awarded to school districts to compensate for 
lost tax revenue as the result of Federal acquisition of real 
property since 1938.

                      SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $5,781,178,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................             - - -
Committee Recommendation..............................     3,164,523,000
    Change from enacted level.........................    -2,616,655,000
    Change from budget request........................    +3,164,523,000
 

    The School Improvement account includes programs authorized 
under Titles I, II, IV, VI, and VII of the ESEA; the McKinney-
Vento Homeless Assistance Act; Title IV-A of the Civil Rights 
Act; and section 203 of the Educational Technical Assistance 
Act of 2002.

Supporting Effective Instruction State Grants

    The Committee does not provide fiscal year 2027 funding for 
these formula grants to States, which is consistent with the 
fiscal year 2027 budget request. This funding has not shown 
significant evidence that funding improves teacher quality or 
advances student achievement.

State Assessments

    The Committee does not provide funding for this program. 
The Committee believes that other sources of educational 
funding can cover these activities.

Education for Homeless Children and Youth

    The Committee provides $129,000,000 for the Education for 
Homeless Children and Youth program, which is $129,000,000 
above the fiscal year 2027 budget request and the same as the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    Formula grants are allocated to States in proportion to the 
total each State receives under the Title I program.

Training and Advisory Services

    The Committee does not provide funding for this program. 
The Committee is concerned that this funding is used to push 
divisive training and ideologies on public school teachers and 
other officials by training them how to address racial and 
sexual bias in teaching materials, school discipline policies, 
and school climates.

Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers

    The Committee provides $1,329,673,000 for the Nita M. Lowey 
21st Century Community Learning Centers program, which is 
$1,329,673,000 above the fiscal year 2027 budget request and 
the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. This program 
awards formula grants to States, which in turn distribute funds 
on a competitive basis to local school districts, nonprofit 
organizations, and other public entities. Funds may be used to 
provide activities that complement and reinforce the regular 
school-day program for participating students and may also fund 
local activities that are included as part of an expanded 
learning time program.
    Summer Reading Programs.--The Committee urges the 
Department to support States in efforts to establish summer 
reading programs for K-6 students, particularly for students in 
underserved areas.
    The Committee is aware of the unique barriers students with 
disabilities face in accessing after-school programs, which 
include identifying an appropriate program and experiencing 
higher-than-average costs. These barriers prevent students from 
experiencing the many benefits of afterschool programs, such as 
improved academic performance, social competence, and improved 
motor skills. The Committee encourages the Department of 
Education to prioritize funds awarded under the Nita M. Lowey 
21st Century Community Learning Centers program to applicants 
that increase accessibility to high-quality and inclusive 
after-school programs for students with disabilities.

Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants

    The Committee provides $1,385,000,000 for Student Support 
and Academic Enrichment State Grants, which is an increase of 
$5,000,000 from the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    The Every Student Succeeds Act eliminated several narrowly 
focused competitive grant programs and replaced them with this 
formula grant program. States and school districts have 
flexibility to focus these resources on locally determined 
priorities to provide students with access to a well-rounded 
education, including rigorous coursework, and to improve school 
conditions and the use of technology.

Rural Education

    The Committee provides $230,000,000 for Rural Education 
programs, which is an increase of $5,000,000 from the fiscal 
year 2026 enacted level.
    There are two dedicated programs to assist rural school 
districts with improving teaching and learning in their 
schools: the Small, Rural Schools Achievement program, which 
provides funds to rural districts that serve a small number of 
students; and the Rural and Low-Income Schools program, which 
provides funds to rural districts that serve concentrations of 
poor students, regardless of the number of students served by 
the district. Funds appropriated for Rural Education shall be 
divided equally between these two programs.

Native Hawaiian Education

    The Committee provides $45,897,000 for the Education for 
Native Hawaiian program, which is $45,897,000 more than the 
fiscal year 2027 budget request and the same as the fiscal year 
2026 enacted level. These funds are used to provide competitive 
grants for supplemental education services to the Native 
Hawaiian population.
    Education for Native Hawaiians Program.--The Committee 
continues to support the usage of Education for Native 
Hawaiians program funds for construction, renovation, and 
modernization of any public elementary school, secondary 
school, or structure related to a public elementary school or 
secondary school, that serves a predominantly Native Hawaiian 
student body. The Committee encourages the Department to 
prioritize funding to organizations with construction needs 
that have experience providing supplemental education services 
to Native Hawaiian children and youth.
    Native Hawaiian Education Council.--The Committee 
recommendation provides $650,000 for the Native Hawaiian 
Education Council to fulfill the statutory requirement for data 
collection.

Alaska Native Education

    The Committee provides $44,953,000 for the Alaska Native 
Education program, which is $44,953,000 more than the fiscal 
year 2027 budget request and the same as the fiscal year 2026 
level. These funds are used to provide competitive grants for 
supplemental education services to the Alaska Native 
population.

Comprehensive Centers

    The Committee does not provide funding for this program. 
The Committee has chosen to prioritize funding for local school 
districts to improve student outcomes in the core curriculum of 
writing, reading comprehension, and math.

                 SAFE SCHOOLS AND CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $431,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................             - - -
Committee Recommendation..............................       243,643,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -187,357,000
    Change from budget request........................      +243,643,000
 

    This appropriation account includes programs authorized 
under parts of Title IV of the ESEA.

Promise Neighborhoods

    The Committee does not provide funding for these 
competitive grants, which is the same as the fiscal year 2027 
budget request and $91,000,000 below the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level.

School Safety National Activities

    The Committee provides $243,643,000 for the School Safety 
National Activities program, which is $243,643,000 above the 
fiscal year 2027 budget request and $53,643,000 above the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    Within the total for School Safety National Activities, the 
Committee provides the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mental Health Services                    $82,000,000        $82,000,000
 Professional Grants..............
Project SERV......................          6,000,000          6,000,000
School-based Mental Health                 82,000,000         82,000,000
 Services Grants..................
School Safety Enhancement Grants..         20,000,000         73,643,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Committee's recommendation provides up to $6,000,000 
for the Project School Emergency Response to Violence (Project 
SERV) program, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level. The Project SERV program provides counseling and 
referral to mental health services as well as other education-
related services to LEAs and Institutions of Higher Education 
(IHEs) in which the learning environment has been disrupted by 
a natural disaster or violent crisis.
    The Committee notes that funds made available through the 
Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (P.L. 117-159), for the 
Stronger Connections Grant program may be used for information 
technology to improve the safety of the school environment in 
high need LEAs. Guidance documentation published by the 
Department also includes information regarding other related 
eligible uses of funds including equipment and minor 
remodeling.
    School Enhancement Grants.--The Committee provides 
$73,643,000 for a competitive grant program to help schools 
implement best practices to improve school safety. This 
includes several things that were recommended in the Department 
of Justice's January 18, 2024, report, ``Critical Incident 
Review: Active Shooter at Robb Elementary School,'' such as 
updated doors and locks that can be locked from the inside, 
metal detectors, or other deterrent measures; wi-fi to ensure 
emergency alerts are received in a timely manner; universal 
master key access boxes; school resource officers and security 
personnel; and training and preparedness exercises coordinated 
between students, school personnel, local law enforcement and 
first responders, and local government agencies. The Committee 
directs the Department to provide a briefing within 90 days of 
enactment of this Act to the Committee on its plans for 
carrying out these competitive grants. In addition, the 
Committee directs the Department to provide notice to the 
Committee at least seven days before any notice of funding 
opportunity is published or any grantees for a new competition 
are announced.
    School Classroom Emergency Door Security.--The Committee 
recognizes the importance of ensuring that educators and school 
personnel have the ability to quickly secure classrooms during 
an emergency or active threat. In many emergency scenarios, 
including active shooter incidents, the ability to rapidly 
secure a classroom door can significantly improve the safety of 
students and staff.
    School Safety Grant Application Feedback.--The Committee 
acknowledges the challenges that urban and rural school 
districts encounter when applying for federal funding for 
school safety-related grants. The Committee recommends that the 
Department provide applicants with a detailed explanation of 
any grant denials and explicit feedback on grant applications 
within 30 days of the announcement of awardees.

Full-Service Community Schools

    The Committee does not provide funding for Full-Service 
Community Schools program, which is the same as the fiscal year 
2027 budget request and a decrease of $150,000,000 from the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level. This program makes competitive 
grants to support comprehensive school-based services for 
students, families, and communities, such as mental health and 
nutrition services.

                            INDIAN EDUCATION

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $196,746,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       196,746,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       200,746,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        +4,000,000
    Change from budget request........................        +4,000,000
 

    This account supports programs authorized by part A of 
title VI of the ESEA.
    The Office of Elementary and Secondary Education has 
recognized that the Federal government has a unique political 
and legal relationship with Federally recognized Indian Tribes 
and has committed to continuing to deliver on all statutory 
grant programs that support American Indian, Alaska Native, and 
Native Hawaiian students. Over 90 percent of AI/AN students 
attend public schools, and the dedicated funds to serve this 
population are an essential part of meeting our Federal trust 
and treaty obligations to tribal nations.

Grants to Local Educational Agencies

    The Committee provides $110,381,000 for Grants to Local 
Educational Agencies, which is the same as the fiscal year 2027 
budget request and the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. This 
program provides formula grants to school districts and schools 
supported or operated by the Bureau of Indian Education. The 
purpose of this program is to improve elementary and secondary 
school programs that serve American Indian students, including 
preschool children. Grantees must develop a comprehensive plan 
and ensure that the programs they carry out will help American 
Indian students reach the same challenging standards that apply 
to all students. This program supplements the regular school 
program to help American Indian children sharpen their academic 
skills, bolster their self-confidence, and participate in 
enrichment activities that would otherwise be unavailable.

Special Programs for Indian Children

    The Committee provides $72,000,000 for Special Programs for 
Indian Children, which is the same as the fiscal year 2027 
budget request and the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. These 
programs make competitive grants to improve the quality of 
education for American Indian students.

National Activities

    The Committee provides $18,365,000 for National Activities, 
which is an increase of $4,000,000 above the fiscal year 2027 
budget request and the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    Funds under this authority support: (1) research, 
evaluation, and data collection to provide information about 
the educational status of Indian students and the effectiveness 
of Indian education programs; (2) grants to support Native 
language immersion schools and programs; and (3) grants to 
Tribes for education administrative planning, development, and 
coordination.
    Within the total National Activities, the Committee 
includes the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Native American Language Immersion         $4,750,000         $6,000,000
Native American Language Resource           3,000,000          4,000,000
 Centers..........................
State-Tribal Education                      4,000,000          5,000,000
 Partnerships.....................
Other National Activities.........          2,615,000          3,365,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                       INNOVATION AND IMPROVEMENT

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $1,191,147,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       500,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       907,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -284,147,000
    Change from budget request........................      +407,000,000
 

    This appropriation account includes programs authorized 
under portions of Titles II and IV of the ESEA.
    Student-Facing Educational Support Staff.--The Committee 
recognizes that student-facing education staff are some of the 
most consequential figures in a student's development and are 
critical for student success. In school districts facing budget 
shortfalls, the Committee is concerned that some districts opt 
to disproportionately layoff student-facing educational support 
staff, compared to administrative staff. In these situations, 
the Committee encourages schools to retain student-facing 
educational support staff to the extent possible in order to 
support student development and set students up for long-term 
success.

American History and Civics Academies

    The Committee provides $3,000,000 for this program, which 
is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    This program supports academies for teachers and high 
school students to strengthen their knowledge on American 
history, civic, and government education.

American History and Civics National Activities

    The Committee provides $30,000,000 for this program, which 
is a $10,000,000 increase above the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level.
    National Activities grants promote evidence-based 
instructional methods and professional development programs in 
American history, civics and government, and geography, 
particularly those methods and programs that benefit students 
from low-income backgrounds and underserved students. Grant 
projects may include civic engagement activities and 
educational programs on the history and principles of the 
Constitution and Bill of Rights. The Department makes 
competitive grants to institutions of higher education and 
other nonprofit or for-profit organizations with demonstrated 
expertise.

Teacher and School Leader Incentive Grants

    Due to funding constraints, the Committee does not provide 
funding for these competitive grants.

Supporting Effective Educator Development

    The Committee does not provide funding for these 
competitive grants. The Committee is unaware of research 
demonstrating that these grants have improved teacher quality 
or student achievement.

Charter Schools Grants

    The Committee provides $500,000,000 for Charter School 
Program (CSP) Grants, which is the same as the fiscal year 2027 
budget request and an increase of $60,000,000 from the fiscal 
year 2026 enacted level.
    The Charter Schools Grants program awards competitive 
grants to State Educational Agencies (SEAs) or, if a State's 
SEA chooses not to participate, to charter school developers to 
support the development and initial implementation of public 
charter schools. State Facilities Incentive Grants and Credit 
Enhancement for Charter School Facilities awards help charter 
schools obtain adequate school facilities. These programs work 
in tandem to support the development and operation of charter 
schools.
    Facilities Grants.--The Committee is supportive of 
construction and renovation of charter school facilities, 
including storm shelters, safe rooms, and other infrastructure 
improvements such as fortified roof and wall construction to 
improve windstorm, tornado, and hurricane resilience, and to 
ensure that a school building is equipped to support the 
provision of a high-quality education.

Magnet Schools Assistance

    The Committee provides $139,000,000 for this program, which 
is $139,000,000 above the fiscal year 2027 budget request and 
the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. This program 
makes competitive grants to support the establishment and 
operation of magnet schools that are a part of a court-ordered 
or Federally approved voluntary desegregation plan.

Ready to Learn Television Programming

    The Committee does not provide funding for these 
competitive grants, which is the same as the fiscal year 2027 
budget request and $31,000,000 below the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level. This program supports the development and 
distribution of educational video programming for preschool and 
elementary school children and their parents, caregivers, and 
teachers. The Committee has chosen to prioritize funding for 
local school districts to improve student outcomes in the core 
curriculum of writing, reading comprehension, and math.

Arts in Education

    The Committee does not provide funding for these 
competitive grants, which is the same as the fiscal year 2027 
budget request and $36,500,000 below the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level. The Committee believes that considering the 
continued decline of public-school performance and student 
achievement across the country, funding provided by the 
Department should be focused on core education such as reading, 
writing, and math.

Javits Gifted and Talented Education

    The Committee does not provide funding for these 
competitive grants, consistent with the fiscal year 2027 budget 
request and $16,500,000 below the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level. The Committee is concerned that the Department's focus 
on equity within the gifted and talented program further 
divides American students and leaves them less prepared to 
compete in a challenging global economy. The Committee believes 
this program should be merit based.

Statewide Family Engagement Centers

    The Committee does not provide funding for these 
competitive grants, which is the same as the fiscal year 2027 
budget request. The Committee is concerned that despite the 
millions of dollars appropriated for these grants in recent 
years, there is no evidence that the grants have fostered 
trusting relationships between families and schools.

Education Innovation and Research

    The Committee provides $235,000,000 for the Education 
Innovation and Research (EIR) program, which is $235,000,000 
above the fiscal year 2027 budget request and the same as the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level. This program makes competitive 
grants to support the replication and scaling-up of evidence-
based education innovations.
    Social and Emotional Learning.--Within the total for EIR, 
the Committee provides $87,000,000 to provide grants for Social 
and Emotional Learning (SEL). To fulfill the set-aside, the 
Committee supports the prioritization of high-quality SEL 
proposals for both the early- and mid-phase evidence tiers. No 
later than 60 days after enactment of this Act, the Department 
is directed to have an initial consultation briefing with the 
Committees on plans to expend the fiscal year 2027 EIR funding. 
Not less than two weeks before the publication of a notice of 
proposed priorities or a notice inviting applications, the 
Department is directed to brief the Committees on plans for 
carrying out an EIR competition. In addition, the Department 
shall provide a briefing and notice of grant awards to the 
Committees at least seven days before grantees are announced.
    STEM.--Within the total of EIR, the agreement includes 
$87,000,000 for Science, Technology, Education, and Math and 
computer science education activities.

                 Office of English Language Acquisition


                      ENGLISH LANGUAGE ACQUISITION

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $890,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................             - - -
Committee Recommendation..............................             - - -
    Change from enacted level.........................      -890,000,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Committee does not provide funding for these formula 
and competitive grants.

        Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services


                           SPECIAL EDUCATION

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................   $15,490,264,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................    16,028,819,000
Committee Recommendation..............................    15,536,264,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +46,000,000
    Change from budget request........................      -492,555,000
 

    These grants help States and localities pay for a free, 
appropriate education for students with disabilities aged 3 
through 21.
    Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.--The Committee 
recognizes the central importance of the Individuals with 
Disabilities Education Act for the well-being of American 
schools and youth. The Committee recommends robust funding for 
this critical program in order to ensure necessary 
opportunities and support for all students.
    Self-Contained Classrooms.--The Committee is concerned 
about reported high level of abuse occurring to students with 
significant disabilities or intensive needs occurring in self-
contained classrooms. Using existing school safety and security 
grants, the Committee urges the Department of Education to 
address reports of abuse occurring in these classroom settings.
    Special Education in Guam.--The Committee is aware that 
special education services provided in Guam may not be fully 
meeting the needs of students with special needs in the 
Territory of Guam. The Committee is concerned that special 
education program gaps in Guam may negatively impact access and 
quality of educational services provided to students with 
special needs. The Committee directs the Office of Special 
Education and Rehabilitative Services to provide a briefing to 
Congress on special education service gaps in Guam no later 
than 180 days after the enactment of this Act.

Grants to States

    The Committee provides $14,268,704,000 for Part B Grants to 
States, which is $1,132,115,000 below the fiscal year 2027 
budget request and an increase of $35,000,000 from the fiscal 
year 2026 enacted level.
    The Committee includes a $25,000,000 increase for Part B 
Grants to States. In addition, the Committee accepts and 
includes the budget request for funding of $10,000,000 and 
legislative language to allow the Department to provide 
technical assistance to States related to paperwork reduction 
challenges and opportunities, including support for States 
interested in pursuing the Paperwork Reduction Pilot waiver 
authority.
    This program provides formula grants to assist States in 
meeting the costs of providing special education and related 
services to children with disabilities. States generally 
transfer most of the funds to LEAs; however, they can reserve 
some funds for program monitoring, technical assistance, and 
other related activities. To be eligible for funds, States must 
make free appropriate public education available to all 
children with disabilities.
    The Committee recognizes the central importance of the 
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act programs for the 
well-being of American schools and youth. This program supports 
the most vulnerable students, families, teachers, and schools. 
The Committee continues to fund this critical program to ensure 
necessary opportunities and support for students.

Preschool Grants

    The Committee provides $420,000,000 for Preschool Grants, 
which is $420,000,000 above the fiscal year 2027 budget request 
and the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    These funds provide additional assistance to States to help 
them make free, appropriate public education available to 
children with disabilities aged 3 through 5.

Grants for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities (Part C)

    The Committee provides $550,000,000 for Grants for Infants 
and Toddlers with Disabilities, which is $10,000,000 above the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    These funds provide additional assistance to States to help 
them make free, appropriate public education available to 
children with disabilities from birth through age 2. The 
Committee continues bill language to promote the continuity of 
services for eligible infants and their families.

IDEA National Activities

    The Committee provides $258,560,000 for IDEA National 
Activities, which is $258,560,000 more than the fiscal year 
2027 budget request and consistent with the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level.
    The IDEA National Activities programs support State efforts 
to improve early intervention and education results for 
children with disabilities.
    State Personnel Development.--The Committee provides 
$38,630,000 for State Personnel Development, which is 
$38,630,000 above the fiscal year 2027 budget request and the 
same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. This program 
supports grants to States to assist with improving personnel 
preparation and professional development related to early 
intervention and educational and transition services that 
improve outcomes for students with disabilities.
    Technical Assistance and Dissemination.--The Committee 
provides $39,345,000 for Technical Assistance and 
Dissemination, which is $39,345,000 above the fiscal year 2027 
budget request and the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level. Funding supports technical assistance, demonstration 
projects, and information dissemination.
    This program is essential to sustaining the specialized, 
low-incidence infrastructure needed to effectively serve 
children who are deafblind. As such, the Committee recognizes 
that continued, dedicated investment in IDEA National 
Activities programs is critical to the delivery of highly 
specialized expertise to improve education results for children 
with disabilities.
    Personnel Preparation.--The Committee provides $115,000,000 
for Personnel Preparation, which is $115,000,000 above the 
fiscal year 2027 budget request and the same as the fiscal year 
2026 enacted level. This program supports competitive grants to 
help address State-identified needs for qualified personnel to 
work with children with disabilities, and to ensure that those 
personnel have the necessary skills and knowledge to serve 
children with special needs. Awards focus on addressing the 
need for leadership and personnel to serve low-incidence 
populations.
    Parent Information Centers.--The Committee provides 
$33,152,000 for Parent Information Centers, which is 
$33,152,000 above the fiscal year 2027 budget request and the 
same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. This program makes 
awards for parent organizations to support Parent Training and 
Information Centers, including community parent resource 
centers. These centers provide training and information to meet 
the needs of parents of children with disabilities living in 
the areas served by the centers, particularly underserved 
parents and parents of children who may be inappropriately 
identified. Technical assistance is also provided under this 
program for developing, assisting, and coordinating centers 
receiving assistance under this program.
    Educational Technology, Media, and Materials.--The 
Committee recommends $32,433,000, which is $32,433,000 above 
the fiscal year 2027 budget request and the same as the fiscal 
year 2026 enacted level, for the Educational Technology, Media 
and Materials program. This program makes competitive awards to 
support the development, demonstration, and use of technology 
and educational media activities of value to children with 
disabilities.

Special Olympics Education Programs

    The Committee provides $39,000,000 for Special Olympics 
Education Programs, which is an increase of $1,000,000 from the 
fiscal year 2027 budget request and fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, to support activities authorized by the Special Olympics 
Sport and Empowerment Act.
    This funding supports efforts to expand Special Olympics 
programs and the design and implementation of Special Olympics 
education programs that can be integrated into classroom 
instruction and are consistent with academic content standards.

                        REHABILITATION SERVICES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $4,648,295,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     4,679,024,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     4,772,906,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      +124,611,000
    Change from budget request........................       +93,882,000
 

    The programs in this account are authorized by the 
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Helen Keller National Center 
Act.

Vocational Rehabilitation State Grants

    This program supports vocational rehabilitation services 
through formula grants to States. These grants support a wide 
range of services designed to help persons with physical and 
mental disabilities prepare for and engage in gainful 
employment to the extent of their capabilities. Emphasis is 
placed on providing vocational rehabilitation services to 
persons with the most significant disabilities.
    Randolph-Sheppard Program.--The Committee encourages the 
Department to provide participants in the Randolph-Sheppard 
program with technical assistance and support in applying for 
funding opportunities available under the Office of Special 
Education and Rehabilitative Services. In the fiscal year 2028 
congressional justification, the Committee requests an update 
on such efforts from fiscal year 2026 and planned efforts in 
fiscal years 2027 and 2028.

Client Assistance State Grants

    The Committee provides $13,000,000 for Client Assistance 
State Grants, which is $13,000,000 above the fiscal year 2027 
budget request and the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level.
    Client Assistance State Grants support services for 
eligible individuals and applicants of the vocational 
rehabilitation State Grants program, and other programs, 
projects, and services funded under the Rehabilitation Act. 
These formula grants are used to help persons with disabilities 
overcome problems with the service delivery system and improve 
their understanding of services available to them under the 
Rehabilitation Act.

Training

    The Committee provides $29,388,000 for the Training 
program, which is $29,388,000 above the fiscal year 2027 budget 
request and the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    The program supports long-term and short-term training, in-
service personnel training, and training of interpreters for 
deaf persons. Projects in a broad array of disciplines are 
funded to ensure that skilled personnel are available to serve 
the vocational needs of persons with disabilities.

Demonstration and Training Programs

    The Committee provides $5,796,000 for Demonstration and 
Training Programs, which is $5,796,000 above the fiscal year 
2027 budget request and the same as the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level.
    These programs authorize competitive grants to public and 
private organizations to support demonstrations, direct 
services, and related activities for persons with disabilities.

Protection and Advocacy of Individual Rights

    The Committee provides $21,150,000 for Protection and 
Advocacy of Individual Rights, which is $21,150,000 above the 
fiscal year 2027 budget request and $1,000,000 above the same 
as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    Grants are awarded to entities that have the authority to 
pursue legal, administrative, and other appropriate remedies to 
protect and advocate for the rights of persons with 
disabilities.

Supported Employment State Grants

    The Committee provides $22,548,000 for Supported Employment 
State Grants, which is $22,548,000 above the fiscal year 2027 
budget request and the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level.
    These formula grants assist States in developing 
collaborative programs with public agencies and nonprofit 
agencies for training and post-employment services leading to 
supported employment. In supported employment programs, persons 
with the most significant disabilities are given special 
supervision and assistance to enable them to work in integrated 
settings.

Services for Older Blind Individuals

    The Committee provides $33,317,000 for Services for Older 
Blind Individuals, which is consistent with the fiscal year 
2027 budget request and the same as the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level.
    Funds are distributed to States according to a formula 
based on the population of individuals who are 55 or older and 
provide support for services to persons 55 years old or over 
whose severe visual impairment makes gainful employment 
extremely difficult to obtain, but for whom independent living 
goals are feasible.

Helen Keller National Center

    The Committee provides $22,000,000 for the Helen Keller 
National Center for DeafBlind Youth and Adults, which is 
$2,000,000 above the fiscal year 2027 budget request and the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level. These funds will be used to 
further expand technical assistance for professionals serving 
deafblind youth and support state vocational rehabilitation 
agencies and rehabilitation providers.
    The Committee recognizes the need to ensure delivery of 
high-quality special education and related services to children 
and youth who are blind or visually impaired, deaf, hard of 
hearing, deaf disabled, or deafblind through specialized 
instructional services and methodologies designed to meet their 
unique language and learning needs. The Committee also 
recognizes the need to support the development of personnel 
serving children and youth who are blind or visually impaired, 
deaf, hard of hearing, deaf disabled, or deafblind. The 
Committee includes $1,000,000 for grants to provide support to 
eligible deafblind schools, or other applicable entities, to 
expand the capacity to work with medically complex students.

           SPECIAL INSTITUTIONS FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $303,292,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       303,292,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       312,292,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        +9,000,000
    Change from budget request........................        +9,000,000
 

                 AMERICAN PRINTING HOUSE FOR THE BLIND

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $43,431,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        43,431,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        46,431,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        +3,000,000
    Change from budget request........................        +3,000,000
 

    This funding supports the production of educational 
materials for legally blind persons enrolled in pre-college 
programs. The American Printing House for the Blind (APH), 
which is chartered by the Commonwealth of Kentucky, 
manufactures and maintains an inventory of educational 
materials in accessible formats that are distributed free of 
charge to schools and States based on the number of blind 
students in each State. The APH also conducts research and 
field activities to inform educators about the availability of 
materials and how to use them.
    The Committee provides $46,431,000 for continued support 
and development of assistive technology products and 
educational materials for students who are blind or visually 
impaired. Within amounts provided for APH, the Committee 
includes up to $10,000,000 to support production and 
distribution of an innovative braille and tactile display 
product developed by the Printing House and its partners.
    Center for Assistive Technology Training.--Within the 
amounts provided for APH, the Committee includes up to 
$8,000,000 for the Center for Assistive Technology Training, 
including regional partnerships to provide instruction and 
technical assistance throughout the United States. The 
Committee believes training on a national level is essential to 
ensure teachers and families have the resources necessary to 
fully utilize APH products and technologies. Of the amounts 
provided, the Committee recommendation includes no less than 
$4,000,000 for regional partnerships, of which the Committee 
believes funding should be based on the proportion of States 
served by the regional partner.
    Monarch.--Within amounts provided for APH, the Committee 
includes up to $7,000,000, an increase of $1,000,000 over 
fiscal year 2026 enacted, to support production and 
distribution of an innovative braille and tactile display 
product developed by APH and its partners.

               NATIONAL TECHNICAL INSTITUTE FOR THE DEAF

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $92,500,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        92,500,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        95,500,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        +3,000,000
    Change from budget request........................        +3,000,000
 

    Congress established the National Technical Institute for 
the Deaf (Institute) in 1965 to provide a residential facility 
for postsecondary technical training and education for deaf 
persons with the purpose of promoting the employment of these 
individuals. The Institute also conducts applied research and 
provides training related to various aspects of deafness. The 
Secretary of Education administers these activities through a 
contract with the Rochester Institute of Technology in 
Rochester, New York. The Committee provides $95,500,000 for the 
Institute, an increase of $3,000,000 from fiscal year 2026 
enacted.
    Regional STEM Center.--The Committee includes up to 
$9,500,000, which is equal to the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level, to continue NTID's current Regional STEM Center 
partnership. The STEM Center program expands NTID's 
geographical reach and improves access to postsecondary STEM 
education and employment for students who are deaf or hard of 
hearing in underserved areas. This has included professional 
development for teachers, developing relationships with 
business and industry to promote employment opportunities, and 
preparing students to be successful in STEM fields.

                          GALLAUDET UNIVERSITY

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $167,361,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       167,361,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       170,361,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        +3,000,000
    Change from budget request........................        +3,000,000
 

    Gallaudet University is a private, nonprofit educational 
institution Federally chartered in 1864 providing elementary, 
secondary, undergraduate, and continuing education for deaf 
persons. In addition, the University offers graduate programs 
in fields related to deafness for deaf and hearing students, 
conducts research on deafness, and provides public service 
programs for deaf persons.
    Early Learning Acquisition Project (ELAP).--The Committee 
includes $8,500,000, which is equal to the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level, to continue the national expansion of ELAP 
through the Gallaudet University regional centers, of which the 
current partner is a regional center. ELAP supports early 
language acquisition for children from birth through age three 
who are deaf or hard of hearing. This program also supports 
activities to improve early language acquisition training for 
early educators, caretakers, and other professionals and allows 
Gallaudet to expand and build on its current research in this 
area, and test and evaluate interventions in diverse geographic 
areas.

            Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education


                 CAREER, TECHNICAL, AND ADULT EDUCATION

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $2,181,436,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     1,450,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     1,460,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -721,436,000
    Change from budget request........................       +10,000,000
 

    This account includes vocational education programs 
authorized by the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical 
Education Act of 2006, as recently reauthorized by the 
Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st 
Century Act, and the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act.
    The Committee supports skilled workforce education in 
schools and recognizes what it brings to America's skilled 
professions through educating a new generation of pride, 
progress, and professionals.
    The Committee notes Congress' intent for Perkins funding to 
provide career and technical education for the ``middle 
grades,'' which may include 5th and 6th graders in some States. 
Where applicable, the Committee supports efforts to limit 
barriers of Federal support not reaching all eligible 
populations.
    Career and Technical Education and Workforce Demands.--The 
Committee recognizes the potential of career and technical 
education in preparing children and adults for a wide range of 
high-wage, high-skill, and high-demand careers. However, 
current CTE curriculum has left gaps in adequately preparing 
students for high-skill and high-wage employment, as well as 
sufficiently addressing the needs of the workforce. Therefore, 
the Committee directs the Department, in conjunction with the 
Department of Labor, to conduct a review of existing CTE 
programs funded by the Department of Education and issue a 
report on the gaps these programs and the needs of the 
workforce. The report shall be submitted no more than one year 
after the enactment of this Act and made available on the 
agency's website.
    Dual Enrollment Pathways.--The Committee continues to urge 
the Department, in coordination with local education agencies 
and institutions of higher education, to expand dual enrollment 
pathways for technical work, such as welding and shop class, 
and encourages the Secretary to offer additional technical 
assistance to schools to support this use.
    Energy Workforce Pathways.--The Committee recognizes that a 
highly skilled domestic energy workforce is essential to 
supporting America's energy reliability, economic 
competitiveness, and critical infrastructure resilience. 
Accordingly, the Committee supports efforts to strengthen 
workforce pathways that prepare students and workers for 
careers in the energy sector, including through career and 
technical education (CTE) programs aligned with industry 
workforce needs. The Committee encourages the Department to 
support the adoption and implementation of the energy and 
natural resources (ENR) career cluster within state and local 
CTE frameworks in order to expand awareness of, and access to, 
high-skill, high-wage career opportunities in the energy 
sector. The Committee further recognizes the importance of 
developing a skilled workforce pipeline to address current and 
emerging workforce shortages across critical energy industries. 
Accordingly, no later than 180 days after enactment of this 
Act, the Department is directed to brief the Committees on 
Appropriations on efforts to support the ENR career cluster 
within State and local CTE frameworks.
    Skill-Aligned Instruction.--The Committee recognizes that 
excellence in high school level career and technical programs 
is predicated on middle school career and technical programs 
that are flexible and achievable in all schools and for all 
skill levels, and that foundational career and technical 
programs can be achieved with programs such as cardboard model 
building with high quality instructors.

Career and Technical Education: State Grants

    The Committee provides $1,449,848,000 for Career and 
Technical Education (CTE) State Grants, which is an increase of 
$10,000,000 from the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    State Grants support a variety of career and technical 
education programs developed in accordance with a State's 
submitted plan. This program focuses Federal resources on 
institutions with high concentrations of low-income students. 
The populations assisted by State Grants range from secondary 
students in prevocational courses to adults who need retraining 
to adapt to changing technological and labor markets.

Career and Technical Education: National Programs

    The Committee provides $10,152,000 for National Programs, 
which is the same as the fiscal year 2027 budget request and a 
decrease of $2,269,000 from the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. 
This program supports the conduct and dissemination of research 
in career and technical education.

Adult Education State Grants

    The Committee does not provide funding for Adult Basic and 
Literacy Education State Grants, which is the same as the 
fiscal year 2027 budget request and $715,455,000 below the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level.

Adult Education National Leadership Activities

    The Committee does not provide funding for National 
Leadership Activities, which is the same as the fiscal year 
2027 budget request and $13,712,000 below the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level. This program supports applied research, 
development, dissemination, evaluation, and program improvement 
efforts to strengthen the quality of adult education services.

                  Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA)

    90/10 Rule.--The 90/10 rule under the HEA requires 
proprietary institutions of higher education to derive at least 
10 percent of their tuition and fee revenue from non-Title IV 
sources. An October 2022 rule included other Federal education 
assistance funds from other Federal agencies, not just Title IV 
funds, as required by P.L. 117-2. The rule was effective July 
1, 2023, for institutional fiscal years that begin on or after 
January 1, 2023. The Committee is aware of concerns regarding 
the timing of compliance, as well as that the rule penalizes 
institutions for utilizing distance learning, given the rule's 
requirement in the preamble that institutions cannot count as 
non-Federal revenue the funds they receive from distance 
learning programs that are ineligible for Title IV funds, for 
purposes of calculating 90/10 compliance. The Committee notes 
that on July 7, 2025, the Department issued an interpretive 
rule, ``Classification of Revenue Under Title IV,'' published 
in the Federal Register on July 7, 2025, stating that this 
preamble language is non-binding, because the Department did 
not incorporate it through changes to the regulatory text. The 
Committee continues to encourage the Department to provide 
clear communication and information on these regulations, given 
the rule's complexities and impact on students and proprietary 
institutions.
    Certificate Programs.--The Committee understands that 
certificate programs are a valuable way that students can gain 
skills to advance in the workforce or launch into a career. The 
Committee understands the Department, following a negotiated 
rulemaking process, has proposed regulations to implement an 
updated accountability framework that includes a new earnings 
premium measure. The Committee is aware of concerns about the 
proposed rule's potential impacts on certain certificate 
programs, given the career and earnings trajectory of students 
who enroll in such programs. Such concerns include that the 
regulations' earnings standard does not include occupation-
specific earnings adjustments or allow for additional earnings 
evidence.
    College Scorecard.--The Committee applauds efforts by the 
Administration to help consumers better understand the short-
and long-term financial outcomes of attaining higher education 
degrees. Enhanced transparency is essential for making both 
sound economic and policy decisions, and while the Department's 
College Scorecard is a positive step towards this aim, this 
resource needs further refinement before it can serve as 
intended. The Committee encourages the Department to engage 
with stakeholders, including health care education 
organizations, to ensure cost data is comprehensive and 
collected from institutions in a manner that minimizes 
administrative burden to the extent possible.
    Federal Financial Aid Fraud.--The Committee remains 
concerned about fraud occurring within Federal financial aid 
programs, including identify fraud. The Committee notes that 
such exploitation of taxpayer-funded education programs may 
disproportionately affect low-income students' ability to 
enroll, due to fraudsters taking limited class spots, as well 
as divert resources that would otherwise be available to 
students with demonstrated financial need. The Committee 
commends the Department's efforts to address this problem and 
protect Federal investments in student financial aid, given 
that the Department oversees $131 billion in financial aid 
through grants and loans annually. In December 2025, the 
Department announced it had successfully prevented $1 billion 
in Federal financial aid fraud, including attempted fraud by 
artificial intelligence bots posing as students and 
international fraud rings, following implementation of 
additional fraud control measures such as identity verification 
for certain first-time student applicants. The Committee 
requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification on the Department's efforts to identify, prevent, 
and dismantle coordinated financial aid fraud rings. The 
Department of Education's Office of Inspector General reported 
in December 2024 that fraud rings accounted for a substantial 
share of the identify theft and ineligible student cases it 
closed between 2019 and 2024. Additionally, the Committee urges 
the Department to continue developing and implementing 
solutions, in coordination with institutions of higher 
education, that enhance the ability of the Department and IHEs 
to identify and prevent financial aid fraud. The Committee 
requests the Department provide an update on these efforts in 
the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification. The Committee 
also notes opportunities to provide periodic updates to the 
Committees as part of any regularly scheduled briefings.
    Gainful Employment.--The Committee notes that the prior 
approach to higher education accountability treated 
institutions of higher education differently based on their tax 
status, as opposed to equal treatment of different types of 
institutions. Additionally, the Committee notes strong concerns 
with a 2023 gainful employment rule titled, ``Financial Value 
Transparency and Gainful Employment'' (88 Fed. Reg. 70004), 
particularly due its targeting of proprietary institutions and 
the overly burdensome requirements it imposed on institutions. 
The Committee notes the Department's ongoing regulatory 
activities to implement the accountability provisions in the 
Working Families Tax Cut Act (P.L. 119-21). Due to this 
regulatory work, the Committee did not include a general 
provision blocking funding for implementing or enforcing the 
2023 rule that the Committee included in the in prior years.
    Limited Distance Education for Foreign Institutions.--The 
Committee is aware that the HEA does not allow programs of 
study offered at foreign institutions of higher education to 
participate in Title IV loans if they are taught in whole or in 
part using telecommunications. The Committee notes that 
international education opportunities provide students with 
global awareness and diplomatic skillsets they can bring back 
to the U.S. after their studies. Due to recent innovations in 
blended learning, domestic and foreign institutions have been 
increasingly incorporating online components into their 
programs. The Committee is aware of interest in permitting a 
limited share of a program at a foreign institution to be 
taught online, if students are present in the country where the 
school is located.
    Nursing and Other Health Care Professionals.--The Committee 
understands the role of health care professionals, including 
nurses, with postbaccalaureate degrees in the health care 
system. Advanced practice registered nurses help foster and 
expand health care access, particularly in rural and 
underserved communities where healthcare worker shortages are 
acute. Post-baccalaureate nurses, including nursing faculty, 
help educate future nurses. The Committee is aware of concerns 
about potential effects of some parts of the final rule issued 
May 1, 2026, ``Reimagining and Improving Student Education'' 
(91 FR 23768) on the pipeline of certain health care 
professionals, including nurses, whose roles require advanced 
degrees. Certain health care programs do not meet the rule's 
definition of a professional degree program, for purposes of 
determining borrowing limits under title IV of the HEA. They 
will be considered graduate programs and subject to borrowing 
limits of $20,500 annually and $100,000 in the aggregate, 
compared to annual and aggregate limits of $50,000 and 
$200,000, respectively, for professional programs. The 
Department convened a negotiated rulemaking committee in fall 
2025 that reached consensus on this and the other parts of the 
rule, before issuing a proposed rule and seeking public 
comment. The final rule includes discussion of public comments 
urging the Department to include certain health care programs 
including graduate level nursing within the professional degree 
definition. Commenters explained that some of these programs 
are at the doctoral level, require substantial clinical 
preparation, contain the academic requirements necessary for an 
individual to begin practice in a distinct profession, and 
require licensure, among other factors.
    Professional Fields.--The Committee recognizes the 
importance of maintaining strong, affordable pathways for 
students preparing to enter a wide range of careers, including 
professional fields. The Committee is interested in 
understanding the effects of the Department's Reimagining and 
Improving Student Education regulation on such pathways and 
program costs. The Committee directs the Department to provide 
a report to the Committees within 12 months following the 
completion of the 2027-2028 academic year, on the 
implementation of the regulation and effects on programs and 
professions not designated as ``professional.'' The report 
should include an analysis of recent trends in enrollment, 
prices, and borrowing among programs most affected by changes 
in loan limits. The Department may include, as appropriate, any 
observations or considerations regarding the designation of 
professional programs based on the nature of the training, 
regulatory requirements, costs, and workforce needs.
    Theology and Religious Vocations.--The Committee 
understands concerns that part of the proposed rule, 
``Accountability in Higher Education and Access through Demand-
Driven Workforce Pell: Student Tuition and Transparency System 
(STATS) and Earnings Accountability'' (91 FR 21088), issued on 
April 20, 2026, could impact future eligibility of Federal 
financial assistance for students pursuing theological and 
religious vocation programs. Theology and related religious 
vocations program risk becoming ineligible for Federal loans 
under the proposed rule if their graduates' earnings do not 
meet the proposed rule's earnings standard, and concerns 
include that institutions might have to discontinue such 
programs as a result. The Committee understands the importance 
of promoting accountability in higher education and a good 
return on investment for students and taxpayers. The Committee 
still emphasizes the concerns about the potential impact to 
students in theology and other religious vocation program, with 
the knowledge that some such programs require individuals to 
engage in extensive education to be able to serve in their 
chosen profession, even if the profession have more modest 
income potential. The Department's assessment in the proposed 
rule also indicates that religiously affiliated institutions 
are among those that are likely to be most negatively affected. 
The Committee urges the Department to consider public comments 
related to these issues to inform this rulemaking process.

                      STUDENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................   $24,615,352,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................    33,146,352,000
Committee Recommendation..............................    24,179,352,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -436,000,000
    Change from budget request........................    -8,967,000,000
 

Pell Grants

    The Committee provides $22,725,352,000 in discretionary 
funding for the Pell Grant program, which is an increase of 
$250,000,000 from the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. These 
funds will support Pell Grants to students for the 2027-2028 
award year.
    The Committee recommendation includes $6,385 for the 
discretionary portion of the maximum Pell Grant award, which is 
an increase of $50 from the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. 
Combined with mandatory funding under current law, this would 
support a total maximum award of $7,445 for the 2027-2028 award 
year.
    The Pell Grant program forms the foundation of Federal 
postsecondary student aid programs, providing need-based 
financial assistance for lower-income students and increasing 
their access to educational and economic opportunities. The 
program is funded by discretionary appropriations and mandatory 
funding and affords benefits to all students who meet 
eligibility requirements. As a result, program costs vary year 
to year, driven by the statutory maximum award; the volume of 
students applying; eligibility criteria; and the size of 
students' grants determined by statutory formula that considers 
factors such as income, assets, household size, cost of 
attendance, and full-time or part-time enrollment status.
    The Committee is aware that college enrollment has been 
recovering from declines during the pandemic, especially at 
community colleges. The fiscal year 2027 budget request's 
Analytical Perspectives notes that due to factors such as 
enrollment increases and statutory changes in Pell eligibility 
that took effect in recent years, there are approximately 
300,000 more Pell recipients as of the 2025-2026 award year 
than the year prior. Pell program costs have increased 
substantially, and the Committee understands the program is 
projected to have a budgetary shortfall in fiscal year 2027 
under current law. To ensure the Pell Grant program can 
continue to support students' access to higher education, the 
Committee has included a provision to end authority to make 
Federal subsidized loans, consistent with provisions in H.R. 1 
as passed by the House of Representatives in May 2025. The 
provision includes an exception for students who have already 
enrolled in a program of study and taken out a loan for the 
program, during the time they are expected to earn a 
credential. Unsubsidized loans remain available for borrowers 
to utilize to help finance their education, within existing 
statutory borrowing limits. Additionally, the Committee 
includes bill language to reinvest the budgetary savings from 
this provision into the Pell Grant program. In incorporating 
these provisions, the Committee is prioritizing the 
preservation of the Pell Grant program, which afford grants to 
students that do not have to be repaid, and which constitutes 
the very foundation of Federal financial aid to students. 
Combined with the increase in the discretionary maximum award, 
these policies aim to sustain and strengthen Pell Grant program 
support for students in the 2027-2028 award year.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants

    The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant 
(FSEOG) program provides need-based grant aid to eligible 
undergraduate students to help reduce financial barriers to 
postsecondary education. Federal funding allocations are 
awarded to qualifying postsecondary institutions under a 
statutory formula. The Committee recommendation includes 
$546,000,000 for FSEOG, which is a $364,000,000 decrease from 
the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. Given limited Federal 
resources, the Committee prioritizes funding for other 
assistance to students, primarily through the Pell Grant 
program which is the foundation of Federal student aid and 
directly supports students by following them to the institution 
of their choosing. The Committee is aware of concerns that the 
SEOG program's statutory formula allocates funding in part 
based on an institution's historical participation in the 
program and therefore does not ensure grant aid goes to 
institutions with the largest shares of students with financial 
need.

Federal Work-Study

    The Federal Work-Study (FWS) program provides funds for 
part-time employment to help low-income students to finance the 
costs of postsecondary education. Students can receive FWS 
funds at approximately 3,400 participating postsecondary 
institutions. The Committee recommendation includes 
$908,000,000 for this program, which is $322,000,000 below the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    The Committee encourages the Department to continue support 
in fiscal year 2026 for the Work Colleges program authorized 
under section 448 of the HEA.
    The Committee notes concerns that the formula governing the 
FWS program has become outdated, and therefore the program has 
not been able to keep pace with the changing higher education 
landscape. As such, the formula does not ensure program funding 
is targeted to institutions that serve the greatest share of 
students with financial need, such as those with higher shares 
of students who receive Pell Grants. The Committee is aware of 
prior legislative efforts to modernize the program. 
Additionally, the Committee encourages timely responsiveness by 
the Department to future requests regarding potential options 
related to this program.

                       STUDENT AID ADMINISTRATION

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $2,058,943,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................     2,058,943,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     2,058,943,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    Programs administered under the Student Aid Administration 
(SAA) include Pell Grants, campus-based aid programs, Teacher 
Education Assistance for College and Higher Education grants, 
and Federal student loan programs.

Salaries and Expenses

    Within the total provided for SAA, the Committee provides 
$1,058,943,000 for salaries and expenses, which is the same as 
the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.

Servicing Activities

    Within the total provided for SAA, the Committee provides 
$1,000,000,000 for Loan Servicing Activities, which is the same 
as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).--The 
Committee commends the Department for efforts to ensure the 
2026-2027 FAFSA process launched successfully and was fully 
functioning and on time. The Committee appreciates the 
Department's regular communication with the Committee on 
administration of the current FAFSA cycle as well as the 
upcoming cycle, as relevant, and encourages the Department to 
continue providing quarterly briefings on its administration of 
the FAFSA.
    Reprogramming of Funds.--Any reallocation of funds between 
administrative costs and servicing activities within this 
account should be treated as a reprogramming of funds, and the 
Department is directed to notify the Committee in advance of 
any such changes, pursuant to section 514 of this Act.
    Return to Repayment.--The Committee commends the Department 
for its efforts to support individuals with Federally held 
student loans in returning to repayment status and its 
commitment to responsibly steward the Federal loan portfolio. 
The Committee is aware that many borrowers have begun to make 
payments for the first time in several years. As the Department 
undertakes this important work the Committee directs the 
Department to continue providing monthly briefings to the 
Committees and to the Committees on Education and Workforce of 
the House of Representatives and Health, Education, Labor, and 
Pensions of the Senate, on progress related to Federal student 
loan servicing and repayment. In such briefings, the Department 
is encouraged to continue providing information that includes 
but is not limited to the repayment status of the Federal loan 
portfolio and communications with borrowers.
    Spend Plans.--The Committee directs the Department to 
provide a detailed spend plan of the planned uses of funds in 
this account for fiscal year 2027, within 45 days of enactment 
of this Act, and to provide quarterly updates on this plan no 
later than 10 days prior to the start of such quarter. This 
shall include contracts awarded, change orders, bonuses paid to 
staff, reorganization costs, and any other activity carried out 
using amounts provided under this heading for fiscal year 2027. 
The Department is urged to provide a comparison to the prior 
fiscal year in such spend plan, as well as include a narrative 
description of planned activities and any notable comparisons 
to the prior fiscal year. Such spend plan should include 
details of major activities, including the Unified Servicing 
and Data Solution and initiatives related to implementation of 
recently enacted legislation, as applicable.

                   Office of Postsecondary Education


                            HIGHER EDUCATION

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................    $3,265,598,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       610,116,000
Committee Recommendation..............................     2,855,010,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -410,588,000
    Change from budget request........................    +2,244,894,000
 

    Critical Minerals Education.--The Committee notes that 
research and workforce training in the critical minerals sector 
is important for ensuring a stable, secure, and resilient 
supply chain that underpins modern technologies and national 
defense systems. The Committee supports efforts among 
institutions of higher education and private sector employers 
to expand research, workforce development, and applied 
technology development opportunities related to critical 
minerals, including mineral processing, refining, 
hydrometallurgy, and pyrometallurgy. The Committee supports an 
increase of degrees and related workforce training in this 
area.
    State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.--The Committee 
notes that State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARAs) 
have served as efficient, effective, and uniform requirements 
for postsecondary distance education. SARAs can expand 
educational choice for students to adapt to a changing 
professional landscape, enable institutions to provide 
efficient and consistent distance education more broadly, and 
reduce institutional costs and bureaucracy. The Committee 
encourages the Department to continue supporting SARAs and 
encourage their continued use and expansion.

Aid for Institutional Development

Strengthening Institutions

    The Strengthening Institutions program under Part A of 
title III of the HEA supports competitive grants for general 
operating subsidies to institutions with below average 
educational and general expenditures per student and 
significant percentages of low-income students. Funds may be 
used for faculty and academic program development, management, 
joint use of libraries and laboratories, acquisition of 
equipment, and student services.
    The Committee provides $112,070,000 for the Strengthening 
Institutions program, which is an increase of $10,000,000 from 
the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    The Committee commends the Department for its recognition 
of this program's historical importance in building 
institutional capacity at lower-resourced schools that serve a 
disproportionate share of minority students. The Committee 
further appreciates the Department's decision to include the 
suite of authorized activities in the HEA as an absolute 
priority in the fiscal year 2026 competition. This is 
especially important given the enduring purpose of the 
Strengthening Institutions Program, which is to improve the 
academic quality, institutional management, and fiscal 
stability of eligible institutions of higher education so that 
they can become more self-sufficient and expand their 
institutional capacity.
    The Committee understands ongoing interest in advancing 
specific policies such as artificial intelligence and career-
focused pathways and therefore has included funding under the 
Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education dedicated 
to bolstering these targeted, priority areas.

Developing Hispanic-Serving Institutions

    The Committee provides $231,637,000 for the Developing 
Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSI) program.
    The Developing HSIs program provides operating subsidies to 
schools that serve at least 25 percent Hispanic students. Funds 
may be used for faculty and academic program development, 
management, joint use of libraries and laboratories, 
acquisition of equipment, and student services.
    Hispanic-Serving Institutions.--The Committee recognizes 
the important role that Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) 
play in expanding access to higher education and supporting the 
success of the nation's growing Hispanic student population, 
including many who are first-generation, low-income, and from 
rural communities. These institutions strengthen the nation's 
workforce and the economic development of the communities they 
serve. On December 2, 2025, the Department of Justice's Office 
of Legal Counsel released a legal opinion analyzing the 
constitutionality of the Department of Education's Minority 
Serving Institution programs, including HSIs. The Committee 
urges the Department to continue to evaluate the impact of this 
legal opinion on affected programs. The Committee is concerned 
that eligible institutions may not be fully aware of other 
Federal funding opportunities to support their missions, 
including the Strengthening Institutions Program. Therefore, 
within 90 days of enactment of this Act, the Committee directs 
the Department to produce a report identifying all Federal 
funding opportunities available to HSIs across the Department, 
including eligibility requirements and participation rates, as 
well as recommendations to improve awareness and access. Such 
report shall be made publicly available on the Department's 
website.
    Further, the Committee urges the Department to establish, 
to the extent legally feasible, a targeted set-aside or 
priority within the Strengthening Institutions Program for 
institutions that typically serve communities with high 
populations of Hispanic individuals. The Department is further 
encouraged to focus on institutions that serve low-income, 
rural, and high agricultural-producing counties with a proven 
track-record of return on investment for low-income students.

Promoting Postbaccalaureate Opportunities for Hispanic Americans

    The Committee provides $27,780,000 for the Promoting 
Postbaccalaureate Opportunities for Hispanic Americans program, 
the same as the fiscal year 2025 enacted level. This program 
provides expanded postbaccalaureate educational opportunities 
for the academic attainment of Hispanic and low-income 
students. In addition, it expands academic offerings and 
enhances program quality at IHEs educating the majority of 
Hispanic college students.
    The Committee encourages the Department to support awards 
for projects that support consortiums of HSIs that award PhDs 
to develop and test new models of cross-institutional 
partnerships that facilitate mutually reinforcing activities, 
such as resource-sharing learning communities, mentorship 
programs for PhD students, graduate research experiences, 
faculty mentor capacity-building, and other uses associated 
with the pursuit and completion of PhDs by Hispanic students.

Strengthening Historically Black Colleges and Universities

    The Committee provides $406,778,000 for Strengthening 
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), which is 
$1,000,000 more than the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. This 
program provides operating subsidies to accredited HBCUs that 
were established prior to 1964, with the principal mission of 
educating Black Americans. Funds are distributed through a 
formula grant based on the enrollment of Pell Grant recipients, 
number of graduates, and the number of graduates entering 
graduate or professional schools in which Black students are 
underrepresented.
    The Committee is aware that many students choose to pursue 
their academic and career goals by enrolling in programs at 
two-year HBCUs. These students may attain an associate's degree 
or other certification and enter the workforce directly or 
choose to transfer to complete a bachelor's degree at a four-
year IHE. The Committee recognizes the important role of two-
year HBCUs, given that community colleges can provide students 
with opportunities to more quickly and affordably obtain the 
learning and skills required for their chosen field. In support 
of educational opportunities for students at these schools, the 
Committee continues language providing supplemental awards to 
junior or community colleges that are eligible under the 
Historically Black Colleges and Universities program.
    Reducing Recidivism.--The Committee supports the 
Department's coordination and collaboration with institutions 
of higher education, including Historically Black Colleges and 
Universities, to provide educational programs for recently 
released and soon to be released criminal offenders to assist 
them in obtaining skills that will help them successfully 
transition back into their communities and reduce recidivism 
rates.

Strengthening Historically Black Graduate Institutions

    The Committee provides $102,501,000 for the Strengthening 
Historically Black Graduate Institutions program, which is the 
same as the fiscal year 2025 enacted level. The program 
provides five-year grants to postsecondary institutions that 
are specified in section 326(e)(1) of the HEA. Institutions may 
use funds to build endowments, provide scholarships and 
fellowships, and to assist students with the enrollment and 
completion of postbaccalaureate and professional degrees.

Strengthening Predominantly Black Institutions

    The Committee provides $22,681,000 for the Strengthening 
Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs) program, which is the 
same as the fiscal year 2025 enacted level. This program 
provides grants to PBIs to increase their capacity to serve the 
academic needs of students.

Strengthening Asian American and Native American 
        Pacific-Islander-Serving Institutions

    The Committee provides $18,906,000 for the Strengthening 
Asian American and Native American Pacific-Islander-Serving 
Institutions program. This program provides grants to 
undergraduate institutions that have an undergraduate student 
enrollment of at least 10 percent Asian American or Native 
American Pacific Islander.

Strengthening Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian-Serving 
        Institutions

    The Committee provides $24,850,000 for the Strengthening 
Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions program. 
Through the Strengthening Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian-
Serving Institutions program, the Department provides grants to 
assist institutions of higher education in serving Alaska 
Native and Native Hawaiian students.

Strengthening Native American Serving Non-Tribal Institutions

    The Committee provides $12,600,000 for the Native American 
Serving Non-Tribal Institutions program, which is $1,000,000 
more than the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. This program 
makes grants to IHEs at which enrollment is at least 10 percent 
Native American students and that are not Tribally Controlled 
Colleges or Universities.

Strengthening Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities

    The Committee provides $57,807,000 for the Strengthening 
Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities (TCCUs) program, 
which is $4,000,000 more than the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level. This program makes grants to TCCUs to increase their 
capacity to serve the academic needs of students.

Strengthening HBCU Masters Program

    The Committee provides $20,277,000 for the Strengthening 
HBCU Masters Programs, which is the same as the fiscal year 
2026 enacted level. This program provides grants to specified 
colleges and universities making a substantial contribution to 
graduate education opportunities at the Master's level in 
mathematics, engineering, the physical or natural sciences, 
computer science, information technology, nursing, allied 
health, or other scientific disciplines.

International Education and Foreign Language Studies

    Authorized by Title VI of the HEA, these programs include 
National Resource Centers, foreign language and area studies 
fellowships, undergraduate international studies and foreign 
language programs, international research and studies projects, 
business and international education projects, international 
business education centers, language resource centers, American 
overseas research centers, and technological innovation and 
cooperation for foreign information access.

Domestic Programs

    The Committee does not include funding for the Domestic 
Programs of the International Education and Foreign Languages 
Studies program. The Committee prioritizes limited resources 
for other programs providing financial aid to students and aid 
to institutions and supports efforts by States, localities, and 
institutions of higher education to conduct the activities 
supported by the Domestic Programs according to their policy 
priorities.

Overseas Programs

    The Committee does not include funding for the Overseas 
Programs. The Committee prioritizes limited resources for other 
programs providing financial aid to students and aid to 
institutions and supports efforts by States, localities, and 
institutions of higher education to conduct the activities 
supported by the Overseas Programs according to their policy 
priorities.

Model Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary Programs for Students 
        with Intellectual Disabilities

    The Committee provides $13,800,000 for the Model 
Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary Programs for 
Students with Intellectual Disabilities (TPSID) program, which 
is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. TPSID 
supports grants to create model transition programs into 
postsecondary education for students with intellectual 
disabilities.

Minority Science and Engineering Improvement

    The Committee provides $16,370,000 for the Minority Science 
and Engineering Improvement Program. This program awards grants 
to improve mathematics, science, and engineering programs at 
institutions serving primarily minority students and to 
increase the number of minority students who pursue advanced 
degrees and careers in those fields.

Tribally Controlled Postsecondary Career and Technical 
        Institutions

    The Committee provides $16,953,000 for the Tribally 
Controlled Postsecondary Career and Technical Institutions 
program, which is $3,000,000 more than the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level. This program awards competitive grants to 
Tribally controlled postsecondary career and technical 
institutions to provide career and technical education to 
Native American students.

Federal TRIO Programs

    The Committee provides $1,197,000,000 for the Federal TRIO 
programs, an increase of $6,000,000 above the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level. TRIO provides a variety of outreach and support 
services to encourage low-income, first-generation college 
students and individuals with disabilities to enter and 
complete college. Discretionary grants of up to four or five 
years are awarded competitively to IHEs and other nonprofit 
organizations. At least two thirds of the eligible participants 
in TRIO must be low-income, first-generation college students.
    The Department is directed to provide no less than the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted levels for each TRIO Program: Talent 
Search; Upward Bound, Upward Bound-Math-Science; Veterans 
Upward Bound; Educational Opportunity Centers; Student Support 
Services, the Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement 
Program and TRIO Training Grants. The Department is further 
directed to take steps necessary to issue grant award 
notifications for all TRIO programs (both new and non-competing 
continuation award notices) no later than May 1, 2027.
    The Committee underscores the longstanding, bipartisan 
congressional support for the Federal TRIO programs and notes 
there are concerns with the applications for the fiscal year 
2026 Talent Search and Educational Opportunity programs, 
released in March 2026. Particularly, such concerns are that 
the applications' shift emphasis on apprenticeships and other 
workforce development activities risks coming at the expense of 
TRIO's core mission of fostering college access and success. 
The Committee appreciates the Department's support for 
workforce development and supports expanding such opportunities 
for students and encourages the Department to examine other 
programs through which to advance this goal. The applications 
also indicate that fewer grants will be awarded in fiscal year 
2026 than in the past, due to a new prioritization of State-
level applicants which are eligible for additional priority 
points and a higher award amount. The Committee understands 
State applicants may subgrant to other entities but is aware of 
concerns about the potential impact on current grantees, 
particularly smaller programs operating in rural areas. The 
Committee urges the Department to account for such longstanding 
programs and bipartisan congressional priorities when 
implementing the TRIO programs.

Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate 
        Programs

    The Committee provides $394,000,000 for Gaining Early 
Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP), 
an increase of $6,000,000 from the fiscal year 2026 enacted 
level. GEAR UP provides grants to States and partnerships of 
low-income middle and high schools, IHEs, and community 
organizations to target entire grades of students and give them 
the skills, encouragement, and scholarships to pursue 
successfully postsecondary education.
    The Committee continues bill language allowing the 
Department to maintain the GEAR UP evaluation set aside at 1.5 
percent to work with the GEAR UP community and grantees to 
standardize data collection, including using third-party data 
systems. The Committee urges the Department to carry out new 
competitions for Partnership Grants and State Grants in fiscal 
year 2027 and to announce Notices Inviting Applications for 
such grant competitions in the Federal Register in a timely 
manner.
    Additionally, the Committee continues to direct the 
Department to ensure that no request from a State Grant 
applicant to receive an exception to the GEAR UP scholarship 
(as described in section 404E(b)(2) of the HEA) shall be denied 
based on 34 CFR 694.14(c)(3).

Graduate Assistance in Areas of National Need

    The Committee does not provide funding for the Graduate 
Assistance in Areas of National Need program. This program 
funds fellowships for students pursuing a doctoral degree or 
the highest degree in the field available at their institution, 
and who are studying in areas considered to be of national 
need. The Committee recommendation prioritizes other programs 
providing support to students and recognizes that institutions 
of higher education or non-Federal sources of postsecondary 
funding are alternative sources of support for such graduate 
fellowships. The Committee is concerned that the program 
performance is not meeting its targets. The target completion 
rate for fellows to finish their degree is only 65 percent, but 
the actual completion rate in 2024 was 40 percent, down from 56 
percent in 2023. Additionally, the program's cost per PhDs and 
for students who pass preliminary exams far exceeded the target 
of $68,0000 in 2023 and 2024, for which data is most recently 
available.

Teacher Quality Partnership Grants

    The Committee does not provide funding for the Teacher 
Quality Partnerships program. The Committee notes this 
program's purpose duplicates those of other Federal programs 
related to teacher preparation and development. The Committee 
recognizes that K-12 education is inherently local in nature. 
States and districts are most knowledgeable regarding needs 
related to teacher recruitment and development in local schools 
and are therefore best positioned to make funding decisions for 
such activities.

Child Care Access Means Parents in School

    The Committee recommendation includes $75,000,000 for the 
Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) program, 
which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. This 
program makes competitive grants to institutions of higher 
education to support or establish a campus-based childcare 
program primarily serving the needs of low-income students 
enrolled at the institution.

Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education

    The Committee recommendation includes $89,000,000 for the 
Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic Needs Grants................       $10,000,0000        $5,000,0000
Centers of Excellence for Veteran          9,000,0000         7,000,0000
 Student Success Program..........
HBCU, TCU, and MSI Research and           15,000,0000        15,000,0000
 Development Infrastructure Grants
Open Textbook Pilot...............         7,000,0000              - - -
Postsecondary Student Success             45,000,0000        45,000,0000
 Grants...........................
Rural Postsecondary and Economic          45,000,0000              - - -
 Development Grants...............
Transitioning Gang-Involved Youth          5,000,0000         2,000,0000
 to Higher Education..............
Workforce Development and                       - - -        15,000,0000
 Artificial Intelligence
 Innovation Grants................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Basic Needs Grants.--The Committee directs the Department 
to continue to carry out this program as described in the 
explanatory statement accompanying Division B of P.L. 119-75.
    Postsecondary Student Success Grants.--The Committee 
directs the Department to continue to carry out this program as 
described in the explanatory statement accompanying Division B 
of P.L. 119-75.
    Transfer of Funds.--Any reallocation of funds within the 
programs listed under Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary 
Education is a transfer of funds, and the Department is 
directed to notify the Committee in advance of any such 
changes, pursuant to section 302 of this Act.
    Workforce Readiness and Artificial Intelligence Innovation 
Grants.--The Committee includes $15,000,000 for grants to 
support projects that advance the Department's priority areas 
of supporting career pathways and workforce readiness and 
advancing artificial intelligence in education. These 
priorities are outlined in ``Final Priority and Definitions--
Secretary's Supplemental Priority and Definitions on Career 
Pathways and Workforce Readiness,'' published in the Federal 
Register on April 13, 2026 (91 FR 18780) and in ``Final 
Priority and Definitions--Secretary's Supplemental Priority and 
Definitions on Advancing Artificial Intelligence in 
Education,'' published on April 13, 2026 (91 FR 18774). The 
Committee notes the benefits to individuals and the economy of 
supporting innovative education and training pathways that 
prepare students for careers in high-demand areas and connect 
them to jobs upon completion. Given the increasing prevalence 
of AI and related technologies across sectors of the U.S. 
economy, the Committee also notes the importance of supporting 
student literacy in, and knowledge of, AI and computer science 
concepts and skills.

Augustus F. Hawkins Centers of Excellence

    The Committee continues to include $15,000,000 for the 
Hawkins Centers of Excellence program. The Hawkins program is 
intended to support teacher education programs at Minority 
Serving Institutions, Historically Black Colleges or 
Universities, Historically Black Graduate Institutions, 
Hispanic-Serving Institutions, Tribally Controlled Colleges, 
Alaska Native-Serving Institutions, Native Hawaiian-Serving 
Institutions, Predominantly Black Institutions, Asian American 
and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions, and 
Native American-Serving Nontribal Institutions. The program 
provides competitive grants for up to five years for IHEs to 
improve or expand their teacher education programs through the 
establishment of centers of excellence.

                           HOWARD UNIVERSITY

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $254,018,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       254,018,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       254,018,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Committee provides $254,018,000 for Howard University. 
Howard University is a leading research university located in 
the District of Columbia and provides undergraduate liberal 
arts, graduate, and professional instruction to students. Of 
the amounts provided, the Committee recommendation includes no 
less than $3,405,000 for the matching endowment grant, which is 
the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. The Committee 
recommendation also includes $27,325,000 for Howard University 
Hospital for ongoing hospital operations, the same as the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level.

         COLLEGE HOUSING AND ACADEMIC FACILITIES LOANS PROGRAM

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................          $298,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................           298,000
Committee Recommendation..............................           298,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    Previously, these programs helped to ensure that 
postsecondary institutions were able to make necessary capital 
improvements to maintain and increase their ability to provide 
a high-quality education. Since 1994, no new loans have been 
made, and the Department's role has been to manage the 
outstanding loans.

  HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY CAPITAL FINANCING PROGRAM 
                                ACCOUNT

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $20,678,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        20,678,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        20,678,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Committee provides $20,678,000 for the HBCU Capital 
Financing program, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level. This program is authorized under part D of Title 
III of the HEA and makes capital available for repair and 
renovation of facilities at HBCUs.
    Within the total provided for this program, the Committee 
recommendation includes $528,000 for administrative expenses to 
carry out the program and $20,150,000 for loan subsidy costs, 
which will support an estimated $389,319,673 in new loan volume 
in fiscal year 2027.
    HBCU Infrastructure.--The Committee encourages the 
Administration to continue to prioritize funding that supports 
infrastructure repair, modernization, and related improvements 
at HBCUs, in support of their long-term competitiveness and 
ability to serve students.

                    Institute of Education Sciences


                    INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION SCIENCES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $789,606,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       261,300,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       493,455,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -296,151,000
    Change from budget request........................      +232,155,000
 

    This account supports education research, statistics, 
dissemination, evaluation, and assessment activities.
    The Committee notes the extensive fiscal year 2025 
carryover funding available to the agency, in addition to the 
funding appropriated in fiscal year 2026. Absent the 
elimination of current funding resources, the Committee 
recommends $493,455,000 for fiscal year 2027.
    National Reading Panel.--The Committee includes language 
under NICHD directing NICHD, incoordination with IES, to 
reestablish a National Reading Panel to assess the contemporary 
status of research-based knowledge, including the effectiveness 
of various approaches to teaching children to read.

Research, Development, and Dissemination

    The Committee provides $200,000,000 for Research, 
Development, and Dissemination, which is $160,250,000 above the 
fiscal year 2027 budget request and $45,000,000 below the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    This account supports research, development, and national 
dissemination activities that are aimed at expanding 
fundamental knowledge of education and promoting the use of 
research and development findings in the design of efforts to 
improve education.
    Rapid-Cycle Development.--A portion of funds should be 
provided to continue efforts started under the Accelerate, 
Transform, and Scale (ATS) initiative to develop rapid-cycle, 
high-reward scalable education solutions intended to 
significantly improve outcomes for all students. ATS seeks to 
pilot efforts modeled on the advanced research projects 
agencies (ARPAs) found throughout the Federal government. To 
successfully advance ARPA-style efforts in education, the 
Committee directs IES to continue to support: (1) phases two 
and three of the Seedlings to Scale Grant Program and (2) the 
new funding opportunity to develop innovative learning models 
as directed in House Report 119-271. The Committee requests 
quarterly updates on progress on these initiatives. The IES is 
further directed to report on its intention to make new awards 
not less than two weeks before the publication of a funding 
opportunity notice.
    What Works Clearinghouse.--The Committee understands the 
importance of the Department of Education's What Works 
Clearinghouse in providing rigorously researched evidence for 
educational practices, such as science of reading 
implementation best practices. However, the Committee is aware 
of the bottlenecks in the What Works Clearinghouse's review 
process and need for the research to focus more heavily on 
outcomes and teaching applications. The Committee directs the 
Department of Education to review the What Works Clearinghouse 
review process and research focus and provide recommendations 
to streamline these processes to produce practical instruction 
guidance for teachers and administrators, especially in early 
childhood reading models like the Science of Reading approach.

Statistics

    The Committee provides $61,000,000 for the activities of 
the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), which is 
$18,780,000 above the fiscal year 2027 budget request.
    Statistics activities are authorized under Title I of the 
Education Sciences Reform Act of 2002. NCES collects, analyzes, 
and reports statistics on all levels of education in the U.S. 
Activities are carried out directly and through grants and 
contracts and include projections of enrollments, teacher 
supply and demand, and educational expenditures. NCES also 
provides technical assistance to State and local educational 
agencies and postsecondary institutions.

Regional Educational Laboratories

    The Committee does not provide funding for this program.

Research in Special Education

    The Committee provides $64,255,000 for Research in Special 
Education, which is same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.
    This program supports competitive grants to produce and 
advance the use of knowledge to improve services and results 
for children with disabilities. The program focuses on 
producing new knowledge, integrating research and practice, and 
improving the use of knowledge.

Special Education Studies and Evaluations

    The Committee provides no funding for Special Education 
Studies and Evaluations, which is the same as the fiscal year 
2026 enacted level.

Statewide Longitudinal Data Systems

    The Committee provides no funding this program, which is 
the same as the fiscal year 2027 budget request and the fiscal 
year 2026 enacted level. These competitive grants are awarded 
to States to design and maintain longitudinal data systems.

Assessment

    The Committee provides $138,200,000 for Assessment, which 
is $55,100,000 below the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. This 
amount includes $8,300,000 for the National Assessment 
Governing Board (NAGB), which is $870,000 above the fiscal year 
2027 budget request and the same as the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level.
    The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) is 
the only nationally representative and continuing survey of 
educational ability and achievement of students in the U.S. The 
primary goal of the assessment is to determine and report the 
status and trends of the knowledge and skills of students, 
subject by subject. Subject areas assessed in the past have 
included reading, writing, mathematics, science, history, 
citizenship, literature, art, and music. The NAEP is operated 
by contractors through competitive grants made by the NCES. The 
NAGB formulates the policy guidelines for the program.

Program Administration

    The Committee provides $30,000,000 for Program 
Administration, which is $40,000,000 below the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level.

                        DEPARTMENTAL MANAGEMENT

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $606,907,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       251,750,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       575,157,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -31,750,000
    Change from budget request........................      +323,407,000
 

                         PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $399,407,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       100,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       374,407,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -25,000,000
    Change from budget request........................      +274,407,000
 

    The Committee recommendation includes $374,407,000 for 
Program Administration, which is $25,000,000 less than the 
fiscal year 2026 enacted level. These funds are used for 
expenses related to staff and other costs of administering 
programs and activities at the Department. Such expenses 
include personnel compensation, health, retirement, and other 
benefits, as well as travel, rent, telephones, utilities, 
postage fees, data processing, printing, equipment, supplies, 
technology training, consultants, and other contractual 
services.
    After School STEM.--The Committee recognizes the importance 
of a strong domestic STEM workforce to U.S. economic 
competitiveness, national security, and technological 
leadership. The Committee appreciates the benefits of educators 
trained in emerging technologies and the impact that informal 
STEM learning environments, such as afterschool and summer STEM 
programs, play in strengthening student engagement, improving 
academic outcomes, and expanding pathways into high-demand STEM 
fields, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, 
cybersecurity, robotics, advanced manufacturing, and quantum 
mechanics. The Committee encourages the Department to support 
evidence-based STEM educator development initiatives that 
strengthen instructional quality in out-of-school settings, 
including initiatives that promote partnerships among schools, 
community organizations, and local STEM-focused industry 
leaders. The Committee urges the Department to prioritize 
underserved, rural, and low-income communities, where access to 
robust STEM learning opportunities remain the most limited.
    Bill Wide Requirements.--The Committee notes the inclusion 
of a bill-wide requirements section of this report. This 
section contains requirements which apply to all agencies 
funded by this Act.
    Credit Mobility for Service Members and Veterans.--The 
Committee is aware of concerns that there is no consistent, 
transparent framework for evaluating prior learning, which 
creates inefficiencies for student veterans transferring 
between institutions. The Committee encourages the Department 
to work with IHEs, States, and relevant Federal partners to 
support the development of consistent approaches to prior 
learning assessment and to improve the portability of academic 
credit across institutions. The Committee requests an update in 
the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification on actions 
taken and additional options to improve credit mobility for 
service members and veterans.
    Foreign Influence in Higher Education.--The Committee 
remains concerned about the risks associated with malign 
foreign influence in American postsecondary education. The 
Committee is encouraged by the Department's renewed focus on 
enforcement of Section 117 of the HEA, which requires 
institutions of higher education receiving Federal funding to 
disclose foreign-sourced gifts and contracts if the value is 
$250,000 or more, as well as to disclose ownership or control 
by a foreign source. The Committee encourages the Department's 
continued support for efforts related to improving 
institutional reporting under Section 117, to prevent malign 
foreign influence, and increase compliance and transparency. 
The Committee understands the Department began a new, updated 
reporting portal at the beginning in January 2026 and 
encourages the Department to continue providing technical 
assistance to IHEs on using new system, to promote accuracy, 
full participation, and increased transparency.
    Additionally, the Committee is aware of concerns that some 
associations on IHE campuses may operate in ways that 
facilitate foreign influence or undue pressure on IHEs and 
therefore encourages the Department to consider ways to promote 
greater transparency and safeguards regarding such 
relationships.
    Janus Rights.--The Committee notes that in 2018, the U.S. 
Supreme Court ruled in Janus v. AFSCME that no public employee 
may be forced to pay money to a union as a condition of 
employment, even if they benefit from union representation. 
Despite the ruling, the Committee is aware of concerns 
regarding efforts to deter initiatives that raise awareness 
among teachers, faculty, and other public personnel of their 
First Amendment rights to free speech and free association. The 
Committee is supportive of good faith efforts that inform and 
provide awareness for public workers regarding their rights. 
The Committee urges the Department to use available means to 
increase awareness among Federal aid recipients of Janus 
rights.
    Hands-On STEM and Computer Science Education.--The 
Committee recognizes that shortages in computer science, 
engineering, and artificial intelligence fields are 
accelerating and that K-12 schools represent a critical 
pipeline for developing the next generation of technical 
talent. The Committee also recognizes that hands-on, project-
based learning experiences--including physical computing, 
programmable robotics, and structured AI literacy curricula--
improve STEM outcomes and equip students with foundational 
skills for high-demand fields. The Committee encourages the 
Department to prioritize grants that support evidence-based, 
hands-on STEM and computer science programs, with particular 
attention to schools serving underserved and economically 
disadvantaged communities.
    Military Student Identifier.--The Committee recognizes the 
unique challenges faced by children of members of the National 
Guard and Reserve who are not currently identified under the 
Military Student Identifier (MSI) established in the Every 
Student Succeeds Act. The Committee encourages the Department 
to explore options for expanding the MSI to include all 
military-connected students, including those whose parents 
serve in the Reserve Components but are not on full-time active 
duty. The Committee further urges the Department to provide 
guidance to States and local educational agencies on how to 
support these students through targeted programs, data 
collection, and educator training, to ensure equitable 
recognition and support for all military-connected children.
    Nonrecurring Expenses Fund.--The Committee directs the 
Department to provide quarterly reports for all ongoing 
projects. The report shall include the following for each 
project: agency project is funded under; a description for each 
project; the date the project was notified to the Committees; 
total obligations to date; obligations for the prior fiscal 
year; anticipated obligations for current fiscal year; and any 
expected future obligations. For any project ongoing for more 
than 3 years, the report should include a narrative describing 
the cause for delay and steps being taken by the agency to 
ensure prompt completion. In addition, the Committee requests 
biannual reports on expired balances that are eligible for 
transfer to the Nonrecurring Expenses Fund. Such report shall 
include the Treasury Account Fund Symbol, program name, 
unobligated balance, and unexpended balance. Such report shall 
be transmitted 30 days after the close of the second quarter 
and within 45 days after the close of the fourth quarter of the 
fiscal year.
    Performance Reporting.--As part of the congressional 
justification for fiscal year 2028, the Department is directed 
to include, for the past five fiscal years, the percentage of 
the Senior Executive Service (SES) for each performance level 
rating (5--outstanding, 4--exceeds fully successful, 3--fully 
successful, 2--minimally satisfactory, or 1--unsatisfactory). 
Such information shall include the number of SES for each 
performance level and the average performance bonus paid for 
each performance level. In addition, the Department shall 
include in such justification the total amount spent on 
performance awards for the SES and the total number of SES in 
the Department.
    Promise Neighborhoods Extensions.--The Committee directs 
the Department to use any available fiscal year 2026 funds, not 
being used for continuation awards, only for 2-year extension 
grants to high quality Promise Neighborhood grantees that have 
demonstrated improvements in program performance indicators or 
for new 5-year implementation awards. If the Departments runs a 
grant competition for new 5-year awards, it is directed to 
allow previously awarded grantees with programs that may have 
recently expired to compete for additional funding for the same 
neighborhood, provided they have at least 5 years of 
successfully submitting performance data, demonstrated 
improvements in Promise Neighborhoods indicators, and justify 
the need for additional funding for their continued 
implementation of high quality plans and evidence-based 
activities.
    Recess in Schools.--The Committee recognizes the critical 
role of recess in K-12 schools in providing protected, 
unstructured time for children and adolescents, strengthening 
cognitive function and memory retention, and building problem-
solving and communication skills. The Committee requests an 
update in the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification on 
the benefits of recess on the academic, social, and physical 
development of children and adolescents and recommendations on 
how to preserve recess time and remove unnecessary regulatory 
and administrative barriers, such as those limiting the use of 
wood chips on playgrounds.
    Reports to Congress.--The Department is directed to provide 
5 business days' notice to the Committees before release of any 
congressionally directed report.
    Staffing Report.--The Committee requests, no later than 30 
days after enactment of this Act, an operating plan identifying 
the total full time equivalent (FTE) and non-personnel 
allocations supported by the program administration 
appropriation in total for the Department, and FTE and non-
personnel allocations for each program office supported by the 
program administration appropriation provided by this Act. In 
addition, the Department is directed to provide biannually the 
number of on-board staff, attrition, approved hires not yet on-
board and projected full-year FTE usage, including approved 
hires, and actual non-personnel expenses, for each program 
office supported by, and in total for, the program 
administration appropriation provided by this Act. The biannual 
reports should be detailed by career and non-career staff. In 
addition, the Department shall separately identify in such 
plans and reports total FTE allocations supported by other 
funding sources.
    Strategic Staffing.--The Committee supports efforts by 
State and local educational agencies, and other stakeholders, 
to address teacher workforce shortages through innovative 
strategic staffing models, including research into new 
innovations in strategic staffing models, program development 
and implementation, and the dissemination of findings and best 
practices. The Committee encourages the Department, within 
existing means and authorities, to support such efforts.
    Technical Assistance and Transparency in the Grant 
Application Review Process.--The Committee recognizes that the 
complexity of the Federal grant application process can present 
difficulties for institutions with limited administrative 
resources. To ensure fair review and transparency in the 
application process, the Committee urges the Department to 
communicate and provide clear, accessible, comprehensive 
technical assistance, including webinars with department staff 
outlining application requirements and training that is 
explicitly aligned with program scoring criteria.
    Workforce Readiness.--The Committee notes the importance of 
addressing future workforce needs in high-need economic 
sectors. The Committee further notes the potential for mobile 
laboratories to advance professional development, technical 
training, technology awareness, outreach, and workforce up-
skilling in mobility, automotive, manufacturing, energy, 
artificial intelligence, and infrastructure technologies. The 
Committee encourages ongoing support of activities at 
educational institutions.

                        OFFICE FOR CIVIL RIGHTS

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $140,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        91,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       140,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................       +49,000,000
 

    The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is responsible for 
enforcing laws that prohibit discrimination based on race, 
color, national origin, sex, disability, and age in all 
programs and institutions that receive funds from the 
Department. These laws extend to SEAs, LEAs, and IHEs, 
including proprietary schools. They also extend to State 
rehabilitation agencies, libraries, museums, and other 
institutions receiving Federal funds.
    The Committee supports efforts by OCR to continue to 
provide technical assistance regarding antisemitism on 
campuses, including regarding student and faculty civil rights, 
and to complete pending investigations of complaints relating 
to antisemitism under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
    Antisemitism Investigations.--The Committee remains 
concerned by instances of antisemitism on campuses of 
educational institutions, including reports of vandalism and 
incitement of violence. The Committee is also aware of concerns 
regarding the existing backlog of reported violations and urges 
OCR to continue to resolve active cases to reduce such backlog. 
The Committee requests the Department include information in 
the fiscal year 2028 congressional justification on progress 
made toward resolving the case backlog relating to shared 
ancestry investigations, including a summary of the number of 
cases that opened, closed, or remained unresolved during the 
previous year.
    Clery Act.--The Committee supports the Department in 
continuing to collect and report data related to hate crimes 
from IHEs as authorized by the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of 
Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (P.L. 
101-542). The Committee encourages the Department to collect 
and report this data in coordination with the Federal Bureau of 
Investigation Uniform Crime Report Program.
    Reporting.--The Committee urges OCR to continue efforts to 
complete investigations of outstanding complaints. 
Additionally, the Committee urges OCR to complete publication 
of the 2023-2024 Civil Rights Data Collection and to publish 
the 2025 annual report in as timely a manner as practicable.
    Statutory Responsibilities.--The Committee recognizes the 
statutory responsibilities of OCR to enforce Federal civil 
rights laws and ensure that all students have equal access to 
educational opportunities. The Committee is concerned that 
prolonged delays deny students the right to a timely and fair 
investigation process and therefore urges the Department to 
support staffing and capacity in support of carrying out these 
statutory functions and responsibilities. Additionally, within 
90 days of enactment of this Act and 180 days thereafter, the 
Committee directs the Department to provide a briefing to the 
Committees summarizing the total number of open cases; the 
number of open, dismissed, and resolved cases in each category 
and subcategory; and staffing levels by each regional office. 
The Committee also urges the Department to maintain its 
publicly available information on investigations.

                      OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $67,500,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        60,750,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        60,750,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        -6,750,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Office of Inspector General has authority to inquire 
into all program and administrative activities of the 
Department, as well as related activities of grant and contract 
recipients. It conducts audits and investigations to determine 
compliance with applicable laws and regulations, to check 
alleged fraud and abuse, efficiency of operations, and 
effectiveness of results.

                           General Provisions

    Sec. 301. The Committee continues a provision related to 
the implementation of programs of voluntary prayer and 
meditation in public schools.

                          (TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

    Sec. 302. The Committee continues a provision regarding 
transfer authority.
    Sec. 303. The Committee modifies a provision allowing ESEA 
funds consolidated for evaluation purposes to be available from 
July 1, 2027 through September 30, 2028.
    Sec. 304. The Committee modifies a provision allowing 
certain institutions to continue to use endowment income for 
student scholarships.
    Sec. 305. The Committee modifies a provision extending the 
authorization of the National Advisory Committee on 
Institutional Quality and Integrity.
    Sec. 306. The Committee modifies a provision extending the 
authority to provide account maintenance fees to guaranty 
agencies for Federal student loans.
    Sec. 307. The Committee continues a provision allowing 
administrative funds to cover outstanding Perkins loans 
servicing costs.
    Sec. 308. The Committee modifies a provision allowing up to 
0.5 percent of funds appropriated in this Act for programs 
authorized under the HEA, except for the Pell Grant program, to 
be used for evaluation of any HEA program.

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

    Sec. 309. The Committee modifies a provision regarding 
centralized support costs for the Institute of Education 
Sciences.

                              (RESCISSION)

    Sec. 310. The Committee modifies a provision rescinding 
amounts from the Nonrecurring Expenses Fund.
    Sec. 311. The Committee continues a provision on formula 
grants.
    Sec. 312. The Committee includes a new provision regarding 
institutions of higher education.
    Sec. 313. The Committee includes a new provision regarding 
participation in athletic programs.
    Sec. 314. The Committee includes a new provision on 
parental notification.
    Sec. 315. The Committee includes a new provision regarding 
protection for religious student groups at institutions of 
higher education.
    Sec. 316. The Committee includes a new provision 
prohibiting certain rules related to borrower defense to 
repayment and 90/10.
    Sec. 317. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
local educational agencies.

                              (RESCISSION)

    Sec. 318. The Committee includes a new provision rescinding 
certain mandatory funding.
    Sec. 319. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
student loans.
    Sec. 320. The Committee includes a new provision on 
mandatory funding under the Higher Education Act.
    Sec. 321. The Committee includes a new provision on 
budgetary effects.
                       TITLE IV--RELATED AGENCIES


 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................   $17,079,804,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................    15,516,381,000
Committee Recommendation..............................    16,966,419,000
    Change from enacted level.........................      -113,385,000
    Change from budget request........................    +1,450,038,000
 

 Committee for Purchase From People Who are Blind or Severely Disabled


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $13,124,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        13,124,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        13,124,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Committee for Purchase from People Who Are Blind or 
Severely Disabled, an independent Federal agency, oversees and 
manages the AbilityOne Program, which uses the purchasing power 
of the Federal government to buy products and services from 
participating, community-based nonprofit agencies nationwide. 
These organizations are dedicated to training and employing 
individuals with disabilities.
    Office of Inspector General.--The Committee provides not 
less than $3,150,000 for the Office of Inspector General, the 
same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level.

             Corporation for National and Community Service


                           OPERATING EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $975,525,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        32,430,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       970,525,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        -5,000,000
    Change from budget request........................      +938,095,000
 

    The Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) 
funds various service and volunteer programs.
    The Committee provides $970,525,000 for service and 
volunteer programs, a $5,000,000 decrease below the fiscal year 
2026 enacted program level. The Committee notes that ongoing 
audit findings confirm CNCS has not fully resolved long-
standing issues or conducted proper oversight of its grant 
programs.
    Within the total for CNCS, the Committee provides the 
following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Budget Activity            FY 2026 Enacted   FY 2027 Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Expenses................       $975,525,000       $970,525,000
    Domestic Volunteer Service            340,202,000        344,202,000
     Programs.....................
        Volunteers in Service to          103,285,000        103,285,000
         America..................
        National Senior Volunteer         236,917,000        241,917,000
         Corps....................
            Foster Grandparents           125,363,000        125,363,000
             Program..............
            Senior Companion               56,449,000         56,449,000
             Program..............
            Retired Senior                 55,105,000         59,105,000
             Volunteer Program....
    National and Community Service        635,323,000        626,323,000
     Programs.....................
        AmeriCorps State and              557,094,000        557,094,000
         National Grants..........
        Innovation, Assistance,            14,706,000         15,706,000
         and Other Activities.....
        Research and Evaluation...          6,250,000          6,250,000
        National Civilian                  37,735,000         27,735,000
         Community Corps..........
        State Service Commission           19,538,000         19,538,000
         Grants...................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

National Senior Volunteer Corps

    The Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) provides grants 
to organizations that engage Americans aged 55 years and older 
in volunteer service. RSVP volunteers participate in community 
service activities including serving veterans and military 
families, supporting workforce development and training in job 
readiness skills, assisting in disaster preparedness and 
mitigation efforts, and mentoring and tutoring opportunities.
    Demographic Distribution.--The Committee supports the 
equitable distribution of CNCS resources to engage seniors and 
improve their lives across the country. The Committee commends 
the agency for providing detailed information on their website 
regarding the geographic distribution of RSVP grants and where 
AmeriCorps volunteers serve. Therefore, the Committee 
encourages CNCS to continue their efforts to promote 
transparency through publicly available information.

Innovation, Assistance, and Other Activities

    National Days of Service.--The Committee provides an 
increase of $1,000,000 to the September 11 National Day of 
Service and Remembrance. The Committee encourages CNCS to 
prioritize eligible organizations with expertise in 
representing families of victims of the September 11, 2001, 
terrorist attacks and other impacted constituencies when 
planning for the September 11 National Day of Service and 
Remembrance.

                 Payment to the National Service Trust


 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $180,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................             - - -
Committee Recommendation..............................       160,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -20,000,000
    Change from budget request........................      +160,000,000
 

    The National Service Trust makes payments for Segal 
education awards, pays interest that accrues on qualified 
student loans for participants during terms of service in 
approved national service positions, and makes other payments 
entitled to members who serve in CNCS programs.

                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $89,686,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        69,627,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        79,686,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -10,000,000
    Change from budget request........................       +10,059,000
 

                      OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................        $8,595,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................         5,624,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        10,095,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        +1,500,000
    Change from budget request........................        +4,471,000
 

    The Office of Inspector General provides oversight of CNCS 
programs, operations and grantees with the goal of preventing 
and detecting fraud, waste, and abuse.
    The Committee directs the OIG to continue focusing on (1) 
improving agency compliance with applicable laws and 
regulations; (2) ensuring robust financial reporting processes 
and internal controls; and (3) strengthening the grant 
processes to ensure grantees are prioritizing Americans seeking 
volunteer opportunities.

                       ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

    Sec. 401. The Committee continues a provision requiring the 
agency to make any significant changes to program requirements, 
service delivery or policy through rulemaking.
    Sec. 402. The Committee continues a provision related to 
National Service Trust minimum share requirements.
    Sec. 403. The Committee continues a provision related to 
donations.
    Sec. 404. The Committee continues a provision related to 
veterans.
    Sec. 405. The Committee continues a provision related to 
criminal history background checks.
    Sec. 406. The Committee continues a provision related to 
1,200 hours of service positions.
    Sec. 407. The Committee includes a provision related to 
approved national service positions.
    Sec. 408. The Committee continues a provision related to 
Volunteers in Service to America members' education awards.

               Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $48,705,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................         7,400,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        38,705,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -10,000,000
    Change from budget request........................       +31,305,000
 

    The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service provides 
mediation and conflict resolution services to industry, 
government agencies, and communities.
    The Committee provides $38,705,000 for the Federal 
Mediation and Conciliation Service.

            Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $18,012,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        16,909,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        16,909,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        -1,103,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission is an 
independent adjudicative agency that provides administrative 
trial and appellate review of legal disputes arising under the 
Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977. The Committee 
provides $16,909,000 for Commission activities.

                Institute of Museum and Library Services


    OFFICE OF MUSEUM AND LIBRARY SERVICES: GRANTS AND ADMINISTRATION

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $291,800,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................         6,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       291,800,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................      +285,800,000
 

    Within the total for the Institute of Museum and Library 
Services (IMLS), the Committee provides the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          FY 2026            FY 2027
           Budget Activity               Enacted           Committee
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Library Services Technology Act:
    Grants to States..............       $181,400,000       $180,400,000
    Native American Library                 5,763,000          5,763,000
     Services.....................
    National Leadership: Libraries         15,287,000         15,287,000
    Laura Bush 21st Century                10,000,000         10,000,000
     Librarian....................
Museum Services Act:
    Museums for America...........         28,730,000         28,730,000
    Native American/Hawaiian                3,772,000          3,772,000
     Museum Service...............
    National Leadership: Museums..          9,348,000          9,348,000
African American History and
 Culture Act:
    Museum Grants for African               6,000,000          6,000,000
     American History and Culture.
National Museum of the American
 Latino Act:
    Museum Grants for American              6,000,000          6,000,000
     Latino History and Culture...
Museum and Library Services Act
 General Provisions:
    Research, Analysis and Data             5,500,000          5,500,000
     Collection...................
Program Administration............         19,000,000         21,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Office of Museum Services.--The Committee directs the 
Institute of Museum and Library Services to ensure transparency 
in the selection and award of competitive grants administered 
through the Office of Museum Services. The Committee further 
notes funds provided under this Act shall be obligated and 
expended in a manner consistent with the Institute's statutory 
authorities and the intent of Congress.

            Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................        $9,405,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        10,698,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        10,698,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        +1,293,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program 
(CHIP) Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC) is an independent 
Agency tasked with advising Congress on issues affecting 
Medicaid and CHIP. MACPAC conducts policy and data analysis on 
Medicaid and CHIP to support policymakers and promote program 
accountability.
    The Committee supports the role played by MACPAC in 
providing nonpartisan policy recommendations and data analysis 
on a wide array of issues affecting Medicaid and CHIP. The 
Committee encourages MACPAC to include with their policy 
recommendations additional specific recommended policy changes 
to the programs that can result in savings designed to help 
improve access to care for beneficiaries and offset proposed 
increases in spending. Additionally, the Committee encourages 
MACPAC to provide more detailed cost estimates and actuarial 
analyses for costs that would be incurred by the Federal 
government and the States to better understand the implications 
of the Commission's recommendations.
    Congressional Outreach.--The Committee encourages MACPAC to 
increase proactive outreach to all congressional offices to 
better inform Members and staff about its role in providing 
information, technical assistance, and recommendations on 
legislative efforts.

                  Medicare Payment Advisory Commission


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $14,673,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        15,048,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        15,048,000
    Change from enacted level.........................          +375,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) is an 
independent agency tasked with advising Congress on issues 
affecting the Medicare program. In addition to advising on 
payments to private health plans participating in Medicare and 
providers in Medicare's traditional fee-for-service (FFS) 
program, MedPAC is also responsible for providing analysis on 
access to care, quality of care, and other issues affecting 
Medicare.
    Congressional Outreach.--The Committee encourages MedPAC to 
increase proactive outreach to all congressional offices to 
better inform Members and staff about its role in providing 
information, technical assistance, and recommendations on 
legislative efforts.

                     National Council on Disability


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................        $3,850,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................         3,850,000
Committee Recommendation..............................         3,850,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The National Council Disability (NCD) is an independent 
Federal agency charged with advising the President, Congress, 
and other Federal agencies regarding policies, programs, 
practices, and procedures that affect people with disabilities. 
NCD is comprised of a team of Presidential and Congressional 
appointees, an Executive Director appointed by the Chair, and a 
fulltime professional staff.

                     National Labor Relations Board


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $294,224,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       285,499,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       200,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       -94,224,000
    Change from budget request........................       -85,499,000
 

    The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is responsible 
for enforcing U.S. labor law related to collective bargaining 
and unfair labor practices, including the National Labor 
Relations Act of 1935.

                       ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

    Sec. 409. The Committee continues language restricting the 
use of electronic voting.

                        National Mediation Board


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $15,113,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        14,306,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        15,113,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................          +807,000
 

    The National Mediation Board coordinates labor-management 
relations within the U.S. railroads and airlines industries.
    The Committee notes an increase in recent years of a case 
backlog at the Office of Arbitration due to the Board 
decreasing the budget line item allocated to arbitrator 
salaries and expenses. The Committee further notes the negative 
effect the case backlog has on the prompt and orderly handling 
of disputes under the Railway Labor Act. The Committee urges 
the Board to reduce the case backlog by restoring funding for 
arbitrator salaries and expenses. The Committee also recognizes 
the Board's declining mediation capacity which has led to 
reduced grievance mediation and dispute resolution and further 
urges the Board to support overall mediation capacity.

            Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $14,449,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        14,223,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        14,223,000
    Change from enacted level.........................          -226,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission 
provides administrative trial and appellate review related to 
contests of citations or penalties resulting from Occupational 
Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) inspections of American 
workplaces.

                       Railroad Retirement Board


                     DUAL BENEFITS PAYMENTS ACCOUNT

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................        $5,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................         4,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................         4,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        -1,000,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    This appropriation is authorized by the Railroad Retirement 
Act of 1974 to fund vested dual benefits received by railroad 
retirees who, under prior law, would have become covered by 
both the railroad retirement system and the Social Security 
system because railroad retirement was not fully coordinated 
with Social Security from 1937 to 1974.

          FEDERAL PAYMENT TO THE RAILROAD RETIREMENT ACCOUNTS

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................          $150,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................            75,000
Committee Recommendation..............................            75,000
    Change from enacted level.........................           -75,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

                      LIMITATION ON ADMINISTRATION

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $127,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       127,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       126,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................        -1,000,000
    Change from budget request........................        -1,000,000
 

             LIMITATION ON THE OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $14,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        14,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        14,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

                     Social Security Administration

    In fiscal year 2027, the Social Security Administration 
(SSA) anticipates exceeding $1.83 trillion in total spending on 
social security retirement, disability insurance, and 
supplemental security income (SSI) payments. SSA's total 
outlays have grown 195 percent since 2007 as mandatory 
entitlement programs continue to grow. The SSA Old-Age and 
Survivors Insurance Trust Fund, which funds retirement and 
survivor benefit payments, is projected to be depleted in 2033, 
at which time, Americans will see a 23 percent cut to their 
benefits. By comparison, SSA's discretionary budget request for 
fiscal year 2027, which funds the agency's administrative 
expenses, totals $14.87 billion, an increase of 60 percent 
since 2007. The escalating pace of mandatory entitlement-driven 
spending remains the primary cost driver within SSA.

                PAYMENTS TO SOCIAL SECURITY TRUST FUNDS

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................       $15,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................        15,000,000
Committee Recommendation..............................        15,000,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Committee provides this mandatory funding to reimburse 
the Old Age and Survivors Insurance (OASI) and Disability 
Insurance (DI) trust funds for non-trust fund activities. This 
appropriation restores the trust funds to the same financial 
position they would have been in had they not borne these 
costs.

                  SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME PROGRAM

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................   $49,452,282,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................    51,588,254,000
Committee Recommendation..............................    51,588,254,000
    Change from enacted level.........................    +2,135,972,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Committee provides $51,588,254,000 in fiscal year 2027 
mandatory funds for the SSI program. This is in addition to the 
$23,500,000,000 provided in the fiscal year 2026 appropriations 
act for the first quarter of fiscal year 2027. In addition, the 
Committee provides $24,000,000,000 in advance funding for the 
first quarter of fiscal year 2028, as requested.

Federal Benefit Payments

    The Committee provides a fiscal year 2027 program level of 
$70,389,000,000 for Federal benefit payments.

Beneficiary Services

    The Committee provides $75,000,000 in new mandatory budget 
authority for beneficiary services. These funds reimburse 
vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies for successfully 
rehabilitating disabled SSI recipients by helping them achieve 
and sustain productive, self-supporting work activity. Funds 
also support the Ticket to Work program that provides SSI 
recipients with a ticket to offer employment networks (ENs), 
including VR agencies, in exchange for employment and support 
services. The Ticket to Work program pays ENs based on 
recipients achieving certain milestones and outcomes.

Research and Demonstration

    Sections 1110, 1115, and 1144 of the Social Security Act 
provide authority to the Social Security Administration to 
conduct research and demonstration projects related to SSA's 
programs. Within the appropriation for Supplemental Security 
Income, the Committee provides $70,000,000 in mandatory funds 
for research and demonstration activities, as requested. These 
funds support a variety of research and demonstration projects 
designed to improve the disability process, promote self-
sufficiency and assist individuals in returning to work, 
encourage savings and retirement planning through financial 
literacy, and generally provide analytical and data resources 
for use in preparing and reviewing policy proposals.

Administration

    Within the appropriation for SSI, the Committee provides 
$4,554,254,000 for payment to the Social Security trust funds 
for SSI's share of the administrative expenses of SSA.

                 LIMITATION ON ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................   $14,841,978,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................    14,867,978,000
Committee Recommendation..............................    14,867,978,000
    Change from enacted level.........................       +26,000,000
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Limitation on Administrative Expenses (LAE) account 
funds the administrative and operational costs for 
administering the OASI, DI, and SSI programs, and associated 
costs to support CMS in administering the Medicare program. The 
LAE account is funded by the Social Security and Medicare trust 
funds for their share of administrative expenses, the general 
fund for the SSI program's share of administrative expenses, 
and applicable user fees. These funds support core 
administrative activities including processing retirement and 
disability claims, conducting hearings to review disability 
determination appeals, issuing Social Security numbers and 
cards, processing individuals' annual earnings information, and 
ensuring the integrity of Social Security programs through 
continuing disability reviews (CDR) and SSI redeterminations of 
non-medical eligibility.
    Bill Wide Requirements.--The Committee notes the inclusion 
of a bill wide requirements section of this report. This 
section contains requirements which apply to all agencies 
funded by this Act.
    Hiring and Retention.--The Committee continues to direct 
SSA to provide a quarterly staffing report to the Committee 
detailing full-time permanent staff and new hires by component 
and the attrition percentage by component.
    Improved Delivery of Social Security Survivor Benefits.--
The Committee urges SSA to improve the accuracy and timeliness 
of processing survivor benefit claims of eligible children and 
requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification on steps the agency has taken to reduce errors 
and processing delays.
    Occupational Information System (OIS).--The Committee 
continues to direct SSA to include information in its 
congressional justifications detailing efforts to fully 
implement the OIS project, including the status of 
implementation and timeline for transitioning entirely to OIS, 
an action plan to accomplish such timeline, and the costs 
associated with the project.
    Report on LAE Expenditures.--The Committee continues to 
request that the data referenced under this heading in House 
Report 114-699 be included in future congressional 
justifications. In addition, the Committee requests the fiscal 
year 2028 congressional justification include a historical 
table of costs and fiscal year 2028 requests for personnel and 
benefits, by major SSA component.
    Social Security Administration Service Delivery.--The 
Committee notes that millions of Americans count on consistent 
and reliable delivery of critical services from SSA and is 
concerned by any reductions in direct-service operations, 
including staff at field offices and processing and teleservice 
centers. Performance related to disability claim processing 
times, timely processing of retirement claims, administration 
of SSA's field offices and 1-800 number, and overall customer 
service are all integral to the public's interaction with SSA. 
As such, the Committee directs SSA to take steps to avoid field 
office closures, reduced office hours, and increased delays to 
appointments for beneficiaries seeking in-person support. The 
Committee also directs SSA to provide a monthly report of 
performance metrics that measure SSA's progress on addressing 
key service delivery functions, including staff levels and 
appointment waiting times by field office, as well as the 
average time that 1-800 number callers wait to receive a 
callback. Additionally, the Committee urges SSA to seek public 
and stakeholder input in advance of policy and operations 
changes when appropriate.
    SSA Administrative or Applicant Errors.--The Committee 
notes that the maintenance of accurate records is critical for 
SSA to deliver timely and accurate benefits to those who 
qualify. The Committee is concerned about the prolonged 
timeline associated with an administrative or applicant error, 
which oftentimes results in delayed benefits. The Committee 
requests an update in the fiscal year 2028 congressional 
justification detailing the steps the agency is taking to 
improve the timeliness and efficiency of its error correction 
processes. The update should describe the agency's internal 
review systems, how the agency informs an applicant of an 
error, relevant staffing and training initiatives, and what 
improvements the agency has taken or plans to take to avoid 
prolonged delays in resolving such errors.
    Ticket to Work Program.--The Committee encourages SSA to 
inform all SSDI and SSI beneficiaries of the Ticket to Work 
program.
    Updating Organizational Representative Payee Guidance.--The 
Committee notes findings by the SSA OIG and GAO identifying 
vulnerabilities in the organizational representative payee 
program, including risks related to fraud, misuse of 
beneficiary funds, and deficiencies in financial recordkeeping 
and oversight. The Committee is concerned that reliance on 
outdated or fragmented accounting practices may contribute to 
these risks and limit effective oversight of beneficiary funds. 
Accordingly, the Committee encourages SSA to consider any 
updates and clarifying guidance that may be needed regarding 
the types of systems organizational representative payees are 
expected to use to manage, track, and report their activities 
to ensure they are meeting the fiduciary standard required to 
direct and control beneficiary funds. In so doing, SSA should 
consider encouraging the use of systems for representative 
payee operations that provide individualized beneficiary-level 
fund accounting, enforce compliance with applicable SSA rules 
and regulations governing the use of beneficiary funds, and 
that are scalable, automated, and centralized with complete 
audit trails, standardized reporting, secure record retention, 
and strong internal controls. Such guidance should support the 
timely identification of irregular transactions, potential 
fraud, misuse, or noncompliance to improve accountability and 
transparency in the management of beneficiary funds.
    Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) and 
Protection and Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security 
(PABSS).--The recommendation includes $23,000,000 for WIPA and 
$10,000,000 for PABSS. These programs provide services to help 
Social Security disability beneficiaries return to work.

Continuing Disability Reviews, Redeterminations, and Program 
        Integrity Activities

    As requested in the fiscal year 2027 budget request, the 
Committee provides $2,397,000,000 for program integrity 
activities, the same as the fiscal year 2026 enacted level. 
This includes $273,000,000 in base funding and $2,124,000,000 
in budget adjustment funding.
    The bill also includes language transferring up to 
$25,100,000 to the OIG for the cost of jointly operating 
cooperative disability investigation units.

Social Security Advisory Board

    The Committee provides $2,700,000 for the Social Security 
Advisory Board, which is the same as the fiscal year 2026 
enacted level.

User Fees

    In addition to the other amounts provided, the Committee 
provides $175,000,000 for administrative activities funded from 
user fees. Of this amount, $174,000,000 is derived from fees 
collected from States that request SSA administer State SSI 
supplementary payments. The remaining $1,000,000 is derived 
from fees charged to non-attorneys who apply for certification 
to represent claimants under titles II and XVI of the Social 
Security Act.

                    OFFICE OF THE INSPECTOR GENERAL

 
 
 
Appropriation, fiscal year 2026.......................      $114,665,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2027......................       114,665,000
Committee Recommendation..............................       114,665,000
    Change from enacted level.........................             - - -
    Change from budget request........................             - - -
 

    The Office of the Inspector General is responsible for 
meeting the statutory mission of promoting economy, efficiency, 
and effectiveness in the administration of SSA programs and 
operations and to prevent and detect fraud, waste, abuse, and 
mismanagement in such programs and operations. To accomplish 
this mission, the OIG directs, conducts, and supervises audits, 
evaluations, and investigations. In addition, the OIG searches 
for and reports on systemic weaknesses in SSA programs and 
operations and makes recommendations for needed improvements 
and corrective actions.
                      TITLE V--GENERAL PROVISIONS


                          (TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

    Sec. 501. The Committee continues a provision allowing the 
Secretaries of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education 
to transfer unexpended balances of prior appropriations to 
accounts corresponding to current appropriations to be used for 
the same purposes and for the same periods of time for which 
they were originally appropriated.
    Sec. 502. The Committee continues a provision prohibiting 
the obligation of funds beyond the current fiscal year unless 
expressly so provided.
    Sec. 503. The Committee continues a provision prohibiting 
funds from being used to support or defeat legislation.
    Sec. 504. The Committee continues a provision limiting the 
amount available for official reception and representation 
expenses for the Secretaries of Labor and Education, the 
Director of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, and 
the Chairman of the National Mediation Board.
    Sec. 505. The Committee continues a provision requiring 
grantees receiving Federal funds to clearly state the 
percentage of the total cost of the program or project that 
will be financed with Federal money.
    Sec. 506. The Committee continues a provision prohibiting 
the use of funds for any abortion.
    Sec. 507. The Committee continues a provision providing 
exceptions to section 506 and a provision prohibiting funds 
from being made available to a Federal agency or program, or to 
a State or local government, if such agency, program, or 
government discriminates against institutional or individual 
health care entities because they do not provide, pay for, 
provide coverage of, or refer for abortions.
    Sec. 508. The Committee continues a provision prohibiting 
use of funds for certain research involving human embryos.
    Sec. 509. The Committee continues a provision prohibiting 
use of funds for any activity that promotes the legalization of 
any drug or substance included in schedule I of the schedules 
of controlled substances.
    Sec. 510. The Committee continues a provision prohibiting 
use of funds to promulgate or adopt any final standard 
providing for a unique health identifier until legislation is 
enacted specifically approving the standard.
    Sec. 511. The Committee continues a provision related to 
annual reports to the Secretary of Labor.
    Sec. 512. The Committee continues a provision prohibiting 
transfer of funds made available in this Act except by 
authority provided in this Act or another appropriations Act.
    Sec. 513. The Committee continues a provision to limit 
funds in the bill for public libraries to those that comply 
with the requirements of the Children's Internet Protection 
Act.
    Sec. 514. The Committee modifies a provision regarding 
procedures for reprogramming of funds.
    Sec. 515. The Committee continues a provision pertaining to 
appointments to scientific advisory committees.
    Sec. 516. The Committee modifies a provision requiring each 
department and related agency funded through this Act to submit 
an operating plan within 45 days of enactment, detailing any 
funding allocations that are different than those specified in 
this Act, the accompanying detailed table, or budget request.
    Sec. 517. The Committee modifies a provision requiring the 
Secretaries of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education 
to submit a quarterly report to the Committees on 
Appropriations containing certain information on noncompetitive 
contracts, grants, and cooperative agreements exceeding 
$500,000 in value.
    Sec. 518. The Committee continues a provision prohibiting 
the use of funds to process claims for credit for quarters of 
coverage based on work performed under a Social Security number 
that was not the claimant's number, where the performance of 
such work under such number has formed the basis for a 
conviction of the claimant of a violation of section 208(a)(6) 
or (7) of the Social Security Act.
    Sec. 519. The Committee continues a provision prohibiting 
the use of funds to implement a Social Security totalization 
agreement with Mexico.
    Sec. 520. The Committee continues a provision prohibiting 
the use of funds for the downloading or exchanging of 
pornography.
    Sec. 521. The Committee continues a provision related to 
reporting requirements for conference expenditures.
    Sec. 522. The Committee continues a provision related to 
disclosure of U.S. taxpayer funding for programs used in 
advertising.
    Sec. 523. The Committee modifies a provision requesting 
quarterly reports on the status of balances of appropriations 
from the departments of Labor, Health and Human Services and 
Education.
    Sec. 524. The Committee continues a provision related to 
grant notifications.
    Sec. 525. The Committee modifies a provision related to 
needle exchange.
    Sec. 526. The Committee continues a provision related to 
questions for the record.
    Sec. 527. The Committee modifies a provision related to 
research and evaluation funding flexibility.
    Sec. 528. The Committee modifies a provision related to the 
obligation of funds from the Child Enrollment Contingency Fund.

                              (RESCISSION)

    Sec. 529. The Committee includes a new provision rescinding 
unobligated balances from the American Rescue Plan Act.

                              (RESCISSION)

    Sec. 530. The Committee includes a new provision rescinding 
unobligated balances from the Patient Centered Outcomes 
Research Trust Fund.

                              (RESCISSION)

    Sec. 531. The Committee includes a new provision rescinding 
offsetting collections derived from fees collected from certain 
qualified health plans.
    Sec. 532. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
compensable medical treatments or benefits under Federal 
workers' compensation programs.
    Sec. 533. The Committee includes a new provision 
prohibiting certain actions related to a sincerely held 
religious belief.
    Sec. 534. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
the display of flags over Federal facilities.
    Sec. 535. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
diversity, equity, and inclusion and critical race theory 
activities.
    Sec. 536. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
discriminatory activities.
    Sec. 537. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
antisemitism.
    Sec. 538. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
gain of function research in certain countries.
    Sec. 539. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
COVID mask and vaccine mandates.
    Sec. 540. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
the provision related to partnerships with entities operated or 
controlled by the Chinese Communist Party or the Government of 
the People's Republic of China.
    Sec. 541. The Committee includes a new provision related to 
entities in which the People's Republic of China has any 
ownership stake.

                       SPENDING REDUCTION ACCOUNT

    Sec. 542. The Committee includes a Spending Reduction 
Account.
              House of Representatives Report Requirements

    The following materials are submitted in accordance with 
various requirements of the Rules of the House of 
Representatives:

                             Minority Views

    Pursuant to the provisions of clause 3(a)(1) of House rule 
XIII and sec. 6(i) of the Committee Rules, the dissenting views 
of the minority party of the House of Representatives, are 
printed below:

                             MINORITY VIEWS

    This bill is a continuation of the Republican Party's 
multi-year effort to eliminate public education and jeopardize 
health care for millions of Americans. It would cut funding for 
health care, education, and labor programs by $19 billion--9 
percent below the 2026 level.
    This bill would hurt the middle class, the working class, 
and the most vulnerable.
    Americans are struggling to afford everything from gasoline 
to groceries; from utilities to health insurance; from mortgage 
payments to medical bills. But instead of doing anything to 
address the affordability crisis, this bill makes the problem 
even worse.
    Due to the president's signature piece of legislation--the 
One Big Beautiful Bill--healthcare costs are going up and 
hospitals are shutting down. Fifteen million Americans will 
lose their health insurance, while the very wealthy and large 
corporations enjoy the benefits of a $4.5 trillion tax cut.
    The president wants to increase the Defense budget by half 
a trillion dollars. He claims we do not have money for child 
care, Medicare, or Medicaid, because ``we are fighting wars.'' 
Meanwhile, this bills cuts funding for education, public 
health, reproductive health, and job training.
    This bill cuts $8 billion--10 percent--from the Department 
of Education. That includes a cut of $2 billion to Title I 
grants, which will push 30,000 teachers out of their classrooms 
and leave countless children with a worse education.
    It is a step down the path toward eliminating public 
education.
    This bill eviscerates funding for employment and training 
by $3.3 billion--one-third below the 2026 level. It eliminates 
funding for adult and youth job training entirely, while 
cutting funding for Job Corps in half.
    As inflation outpaces wage growth, and new technology 
upends the workforce, we should be investing in programs that 
support workers--not cutting funding and leaving them out to 
dry.
    This bill cuts funding for Health and Human Services 
programs by $4.5 billion, including a $1 billion cut to the 
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The majority 
of these cuts target programs that combat the HIV/AIDS 
epidemic, jeopardizing the extraordinary progress we have made 
toward defeating this disease.
    The ongoing Ebola outbreak threatens to become the 
deadliest in history. Tragically, the outbreak has had a 
significant head start on efforts to contain it, due to the 
Trump Administration's decisions to dismantle USAID, withdraw 
from the World Health Organization, and drastically scale back 
our global health footprint.
    Further compounding the risk to our public health security, 
this bill leaves funding for CDC global health activities 
stagnant, which will not be nearly enough to sustain our global 
presence after the State Department's decision to restructure 
the PEPFAR program.
    This bill eliminates funding for Title X Family Planning, 
leaving 2.6 million women and men without access to preventive 
care services and contraception. It eliminates the Teen 
Pregnancy Prevention Program. And it includes new partisan 
provisions that target reproductive health care access.
    This bill cuts $2 billion in operations funding from the 
Affordable Care Act health insurance marketplace, threatening 
health care coverage for millions of Americans. Even if you 
qualify for an affordable ACA health care plan, you will have a 
harder time accessing it.
    This Administration and House Republicans are squeezing 
working families from both ends--increasing costs for daily 
necessities while hollowing out health, education, nutrition, 
and employment programs that support the middle class, the 
working class, and vulnerable Americans.
    And in keeping with the majority's other partisan bills, 
this bill includes a litany of poison pill riders, including 
multiple provisions that target abortion rights and 
reproductive health care services, multiple provisions that 
would allow discrimination against LGBTQI+ individuals, 
prohibitions on programs to promote diversity in the federal 
government, and prohibitions on research to reduce firearm 
injury and mortality prevention research.
    In addition, this bill does not protect nonpartisan 
scientific research from the political influence of the 
president and his political allies. Since taking office, this 
Administration has repeatedly tried to condition grant funding 
on political preference.
    On May 29, the Administration published a proposed 
regulation, which would subject all federal grant-making to 
political influence. Not peer review, not objective merit, not 
empirical evidence--just personal political preference. This 
cannot be allowed to happen. Congress must exercise its power 
of the purse.
    I have strong objections to this bill, as written, and as 
it moves through the legislative process, I will continue 
working to improve it. That being said, there are some bright 
spots that I believe are worth recognizing.
    First, I am glad to see the overall funding level for the 
National Institutes of Health is increased under this bill, 
especially targeted increase for research on cancer, 
Alzheimer's disease, ALS, diabetes, women's health, and rare 
diseases.
    Second, during our subcommittee hearing on the Science of 
Reading earlier this year, I called for this committee to 
reestablish a National Reading Panel to explore ways to improve 
how we teach our children to read. I am pleased that this 
committee has answered that call.
    However, I remain overwhelmingly opposed to the legislation 
as a whole.

Full Committee Markup

    During full committee markup, House Democrats proposed an 
amendment to block a rescission of $2 billion from user fees 
necessary to operate the ACA health insurance marketplace, 
which would jeopardize health insurance for millions of 
Americans who are covered by ACA health plans, but it was 
rejected by the Republican majority.
    House Democrats proposed an amendment to block the 
termination of subsidized loans to undergraduate students, 
which would increase interest rates for four million college 
student borrowers, but it was rejected by the Republican 
majority.
    House Democrats proposed an amendment to prevent the 
dismantling of the Department of Education through interagency 
agreements to move education programs to other federal 
departments, but it was rejected by the Republican majority.
    House Democrats proposed an amendment to block OMB's 
proposed rule to politicize grant-making across the federal 
government, as well as an amendment to block an effort to 
politicize the federal civil service workforce, but both 
amendments were rejected by the Republican majority.
    House Democrats proposed amendments to restore funding for 
WIOA Adult and Youth job training grants, Preschool Development 
Grants, Full-Service Community Schools, Teacher Quality 
Partnerships, English Language Acquisition, Federal Work Study 
and the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, and the 
Institute of Education Sciences, but each of the amendments 
were rejected by the Republican majority.
    House Democrats proposed amendments to restore funding for 
the National Labor Relations Board, the Office of Federal 
Contract Compliance Programs, and the Bureau of International 
Labor Affairs (ILAB), but each of the amendments were rejected 
by the Republican majority.
    House Democrats proposed amendments to restore funding for 
the Reintegration of Ex-Offenders program, the CDC's Racial and 
Ethnic Approaches to Community Health program, SAMHSA's 
Criminal and Juvenile Justice programs, and SAMHSA's 
homelessness programs, but each of the amendments were rejected 
by the Republican majority.
    House Democrats proposed an amendment to restore funding 
for firearm injury and mortality prevention research, but it 
was rejected by the Republican majority.
     House Democrats proposed an amendment to prohibit the 
Administration from temporarily or permanently withholding 
SAMHSA funds from grantees that have been approved for their 
grant awards, as well as an amendment to remove a prohibition 
on OSHA from finalizing a health regulation on heat injury and 
illness prevention, but both amendments were rejected by the 
Republican majority.
    Finally, House Democrats proposed amendments to strike 
harmful policy riders that do not belong in the Labor-HHS-
Education appropriations bill, including the Hyde and Weldon 
amendments, the prohibition on funding for Planned Parenthood 
clinics, and multiple poison pill riders that target abortion 
rights and reproductive health care services, but each of the 
amendments were rejected by the Republican majority.

Conclusion

    Instead of addressing the cost-of-living crisis, this bill 
continues the Republican Party's multi-year effort to dismantle 
the nation's public education systems and the Affordable Care 
Act--so I cannot support it.
    This bill, like the 11 other appropriations bills, will 
need support from Republicans and Democrats in the House and 
Senate in order to become law.
    Despite my opposition to the current bill, I look forward 
to working with Chairman Cole and Chairman Aderholt through 
this year's appropriations process to produce a responsible 
bill that both parties can support.
                                   Rosa L. DeLauro.
                          Full Committee Votes

    Pursuant to the provisions of clause 3(b) of rule XIII of 
the House of Representatives, the results of each roll call 
vote on an amendment or on the motion to report, together with 
the names of those voting for and those against, are printed 
below:

                          FULL COMMITTEE VOTES

    [GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]


               Comparative Statement of Budget Authority

    Pursuant to clause 3(c)(2) of rule XIII of the Rules of the 
House of Representatives and section 308(a)(1)(A) of the 
Congressional Budget Act of 1974, the following table compares 
the levels of new budget authority provided in the bill with 
the appropriate allocation under section 302(b) of the Budget 
Act.
    Some funding amounts displayed under the FY 2027 Request 
column are displayed in accordance with the programs and 
accounts under current law and may not be directly comparable 
to the display in the FY 2027 budget request submitted by the 
Office and Management and Budget.

    [GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]

    BUDGETARY IMPACT OF THE DEPARTMENTS OF LABOR, HEALTH AND HUMAN 
  SERVICES, AND EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS BILL, 
  2027, PREPARED IN CONSULTATION WITH THE CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET OFFICE 
   PURSUANT TO SECTION 308(A) OF THE CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET ACT OF 1974

                        [IN MILLIONS OF DOLLARS]


                   COMPARISON WITH BUDGET RESOLUTION

    Pursuant to clause 3(c)(2) of rule XIII of the Rules of the 
House of Representatives and section 308(a)(1)(A) of the 
Congressional Budget Act of 1974, the following table compares 
the levels of new budget authority provided in the bill with 
the appropriate allocation under section 302(b) of the Budget 
Act:

                                            [In millions of dollars]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                         302(b) Allocation                   This Bill
                                                 ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                                      Budget                          Budget
                                                     Authority        Outlays        Authority        Outlays
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comparison of amounts in the bill with Committee
 allocations to its subcommittees: Subcommittee
 on Labor, Health and Human Services, and
 Education, and Related Agencies:
    Discretionary...............................  ..............  ..............        $192,461       1$221,037
    Mandatory...................................  ..............  ..............       1,503,574      11,495,392
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1Includes outlays from prior-year budget authority.

                      FIVE-YEAR OUTLAY PROJECTIONS

    Pursuant to clause 3(c)(2) of rule XIII and section 
308(a)(1)(A) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974, the 
following table contains five-year projections associated with 
the budget authority provided in the accompanying bill as 
provided to the Committee by the Congressional Budget Office:

                        [In millions of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                            Outlays
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Projection of outlays associated with the
 recommendation:
    2027.............................................        1$1,556,506
    2028.............................................            109,992
    2029.............................................             26,283
    2030.............................................              6,223
    2031 and future years............................             1,464
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1Excludes outlays from prior-year budget authority.

          FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS

    Pursuant to clause 3(c)(2) of rule XIII and section 
308(a)(1)(A) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974, the 
Congressional Budget Office has provided the following 
estimates of new budget authority and outlays provided by the 
accompanying bill for financial assistance to State and local 
governments:

                        [In millions of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                     Budget Authority       Outlays
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Financial Assistance to State and            $545,261          1$763,608
 local governments for 2027.......
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1Excludes outlays from prior-year budget authority.

         Statement of General Performance Goals and Objectives

    Pursuant to clause 3(c)(4) of rule XIII of the Rules of the 
House of Representatives, the following is a statement of 
general performance goals and objectives for which this measure 
authorizes funding:
          The Committee on Appropriations considers program 
        performance, including a program's success in 
        developing and attaining outcome-related goals and 
        objectives, in developing funding recommendations.

                          Program Duplication

    No provision of this bill establishes or reauthorizes a 
program of the Federal Government known to be duplicative of 
another Federal program, a program that was included in any 
report from the Government Accountability Office to Congress 
pursuant to section 21 of Public Law 111-139, or a program 
related to a program identified in the most recent Catalog of 
Federal Domestic Assistance.
                           Committee Hearings

    Pursuant to clause 3(c)(6) of rule XIII of the Rules of the 
House of Representatives, the following hearings were used to 
develop or consider the Labor, Health and Human Services, and 
Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2027:
    The Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, 
Education, and Related Agencies held a hearing on February 10, 
2026, entitled ``The Science of Reading.'' The Subcommittee 
received testimony from:
          Holly Lane, Ph.D., Director, Univ. of Florida 
        Literacy Institute & Professor,
          Bonnie Short, Director, Alabama Reading Initiative, 
        and
          Larry Saulsberry, Director of Teaching and Learning 
        for Literacy, Huntsville City Schools.
    The Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, 
Education, and Related Agencies held a hearing on March 4, 
2026, entitled ``Preparing for the Future: America's Community 
Colleges.'' The Subcommittee received testimony from:
          Patricia G. Sims, EdD, President of Drake State 
        Community & Technical College,
          Brad Hall, EdD, President of Blackfeet Community 
        College,
          Mr. Shalin Jyotishi, Founder and Managing Director of 
        Future of Work and Innovation Economy Initiative, New 
        America
          Mr. Shawn M. Morgan, Vice President of Workforce and 
        Strategic Initiatives at Bevill State Community 
        College.
    The Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and 
Education, and Related Agencies held a hearing on March 5, 
2026, entitled ``Member Day.'' The Subcommittee received 
testimony from:
          The Honorable Morgan Luttrell,
          The Honorable Laura Gillen,
          The Honorable Chris Smith,
          The Honorable Debbie Wasserman Schultz,
          The Honorable Chuck Edwards, and
          The Honorable Sylvia Garcia.
    The Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and 
Education, and Related Agencies held a hearing on March 17, 
2026, entitled ``National Institutes of Health.'' The 
Subcommittee received testimony from:
          Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, M.D., Ph.D., Director of the 
        National Institutes of Health.
    The Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and 
Education, and Related Agencies held a hearing on March 26, 
2026, entitled ``Advancing Permanency in Child Welfare: 
Leveraging Federal Funding for Adoption Programs.'' The 
Subcommittee received testimony from:
          Kate McLean, Executive Director of Congressional 
        Coalition on Adoption Institute,
          Sarah Font, Ph.D., Professor at the Brown School at 
        Washington University in St. Louis,
          Debbie Riley, CEO of Center for Adoption Support and 
        Education,
          Aurene Martin, Board Secretary of the National Indian 
        Child Welfare Association, and
          Lee Marshall, Founder and CEO of Kids to Love.
    The Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and 
Education, and Related Agencies held a budget hearing on April 
16, 2026, entitled ``Department of Health and Human Services 
Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Hearing.'' The Subcommittee received 
testimony from:
          The Honorable Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Secretary of 
        the Department of Health and Human Services.
          Compliance With Rule XIII, Cl. 3(d) (Ramseyer Rule)

  In compliance with clause 3(e) of rule XIII of the Rules of 
the House of Representatives, changes in existing law made by 
the bill, as reported, are shown as follows (existing law 
proposed to be omitted is enclosed in black brackets, new 
matter is printed in italics, and existing law in which no 
change is proposed is shown in roman):

          Compliance With Rule XIII, Cl. 3(e) (Ramseyer Rule)

  In compliance with clause 3(e) of rule XIII of the Rules of 
the House of Representatives, changes in existing law made by 
the bill, as reported, are shown as follows (existing law 
proposed to be omitted is enclosed in black brackets, new 
matter is printed in italics, and existing law in which no 
change is proposed is shown in roman):

                       PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE ACT




           *       *       *       *       *       *       *
TITLE II--ADMINISTRATION AND MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *



Part B--Miscellaneous Provisions

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *



SEC. 245A. CIVIL ACTION FOR CERTAIN VIOLATIONS.

  (a) In General.--A qualified party may, in a civil action, 
obtain appropriate relief with regard to a designated 
violation.
  (b) Definitions.--For purposes of this section:
          (1) Designated violation.--The term ``designated 
        violation'' means an actual or threatened violation 
        of--
                  (A) section 507(d) of division B of the 
                Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 (or any 
                subsequent substantially similar provision); or
                  (B) any funding condition imposed by the 
                Federal Government pursuant to such section 
                507(d) (or such substantially similar 
                provision).
          (2) Qualified party.--The term ``qualified party'' 
        means--
                  (A) the Attorney General of the United 
                States;
                  (B) any attorney general of a State; or
                  (C) any person or entity adversely affected 
                by the designated violation without regard to 
                whether such person or entity is a health care 
                provider.
          (3) State governmental entity.--The term ``State 
        governmental entity'' means a State, a local government 
        within a State, and any agency or other governmental 
        unit or subdivision of a State, or of such a local 
        government.
  (c) Administrative Remedies Not Required.--An action under 
this section may be commenced, and relief may be granted, 
without regard to whether the party commencing the action has 
sought or exhausted any available administrative remedies.
  (d) Defendants.--An action under this section may be 
maintained against a Federal agency committing a designated 
violation described in subsection (b)(1)(A) or any recipient or 
subrecipient of Federal assistance committing a designated 
violation described in subsection (b)(1)(B), including a State 
governmental entity.
  (e) Nature of Relief.--In an action under this section, the 
court shall grant--
          (1) all appropriate relief, including injunctive 
        relief, declaratory relief, and compensatory damages, 
        to prevent the occurrence, continuance, or repetition 
        of the designated violation and to compensate for 
        losses resulting from the designated violation; and
          (2) to a prevailing plaintiff, reasonable attorneys' 
        fees and litigation costs.
Relief in an action under this section may include money 
damages even if the defendant is a governmental entity.
  (f) Abrogation of State Immunity.--No State or governmental 
official that commits a designated violation shall be immune 
under the Tenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United 
States, the Eleventh Amendment to the Constitution of the 
United States, or any other source of law, from an action under 
subsection (a).

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *

                              ----------                              


                      HIGHER EDUCATION ACT OF 1965



           *       *       *       *       *       *       *
                      TITLE IV--STUDENT ASSISTANCE

  Part A--Grants to Students in Attendance at Institutions of Higher 
Education

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


                     Subpart 1--Federal Pell Grants

SEC. 401. FEDERAL PELL GRANTS: AMOUNT AND DETERMINATIONS; APPLICATIONS.

  (a) Purpose; Definitions.--
          (1) Purpose.--The purpose of this subpart is to 
        provide a Federal Pell Grant to low-income students.
          (2) Definitions.--In this section--
                  (A) the term ``adjusted gross income'' 
                means--
                          (i) in the case of a dependent 
                        student, for the second tax year 
                        preceding the academic year--
                                  (I) the adjusted gross income 
                                (as defined in section 62 of 
                                the Internal Revenue Code of 
                                1986) of the student's parents; 
                                plus
                                  (II) for Federal Pell Grant 
                                determinations made for 
                                academic years beginning on or 
                                after July 1, 2026, the foreign 
                                income (as described in section 
                                480(b)(5)) of the student's 
                                parents; and
                          (ii) in the case of an independent 
                        student, for the second tax year 
                        preceding the academic year--
                                  (I) the adjusted gross income 
                                (as defined in section 62 of 
                                the Internal Revenue Code of 
                                1986) of the student (and the 
                                student's spouse, if 
                                applicable); plus
                                  (II) for Federal Pell Grant 
                                determinations made for 
                                academic years beginning on or 
                                after July 1, 2026, the foreign 
                                income (as described in section 
                                480(b)(5)) of the student (and 
                                the student's spouse, if 
                                applicable);
                  (B) the term ``family size'' has the meaning 
                given the term in section 480(k);
                  (C) the term ``poverty line'' means the 
                poverty line (as determined under the poverty 
                guidelines updated periodically in the Federal 
                Register by the Department of Health and Human 
                Services under the authority of section 673(2) 
                of the Community Services Block Grant Act (42 
                U.S.C. 9902(2))) applicable to the student's 
                family size and applicable to the second tax 
                year preceding the academic year;
                  (D) the term ``single parent'' means--
                          (i) a parent of a dependent student 
                        who was a head of household (as defined 
                        in section 2(b) of the Internal Revenue 
                        Code of 1986) or a surviving spouse (as 
                        defined in section 2(a) of the Internal 
                        Revenue Code of 1986) or was an 
                        eligible individual for purposes of the 
                        credit under section 32 of such Code, 
                        in the second tax year preceding the 
                        academic year; or
                          (ii) an independent student who is a 
                        parent and was a head of household (as 
                        defined in section 2(b) of the Internal 
                        Revenue Code of 1986) or a surviving 
                        spouse (as defined in section 2(a) of 
                        the Internal Revenue Code of 1986) or 
                        was an eligible individual for purposes 
                        of the credit under section 32 of such 
                        Code, in the second tax year preceding 
                        the academic year;
                  (E) the term ``total maximum Federal Pell 
                Grant'' means the total maximum Federal Pell 
                Grant award per student for any academic year 
                described under subsection (b)(5); and
                  (F) the term ``minimum Federal Pell Grant'' 
                means the minimum amount of a Federal Pell 
                Grant that shall be awarded to a student for 
                any academic year in which that student is 
                attending full time, which shall be equal to 10 
                percent of the total maximum Federal Pell Grant 
                for such academic year.
  (b) Amount and Distribution of Grants.--
          (1) Determination of amount of a federal pell 
        grant.--Subject to paragraphs (2) and (3), the amount 
        of a Federal Pell Grant for a student shall be 
        determined in accordance with the following:
                  (A) A student shall be eligible for a total 
                maximum Federal Pell Grant for an academic year 
                in which the student is enrolled in an eligible 
                program full time--
                          (i) if the student (and the student's 
                        spouse, if applicable), or, in the case 
                        of a dependent student, the dependent 
                        student's parents (or single parent), 
                        is not required to file a Federal 
                        income tax return in the second year 
                        preceding the academic year;
                          (ii) if the student or, in the case 
                        of a dependent student, the dependent 
                        student's parent, is a single parent, 
                        and the adjusted gross income is 
                        greater than zero and equal to or less 
                        than 225 percent of the poverty line; 
                        or
                          (iii) if the student or, in the case 
                        of a dependent student, the dependent 
                        student's parent, is not a single 
                        parent, and the adjusted gross income 
                        is greater than zero and equal to or 
                        less than 175 percent of the poverty 
                        line.
                  (B) A student who is not eligible for a total 
                maximum Federal Pell Grant under subparagraph 
                (A) for an academic year, shall be eligible for 
                a Federal Pell Grant for an academic year in 
                which the student is enrolled in an eligible 
                program full time if such student's student aid 
                index in such award year is less than the total 
                maximum Federal Pell Grant for that award year. 
                The amount of the Federal Pell Grant for a 
                student eligible under this subparagraph shall 
                be--
                          (i) the total maximum Federal Pell 
                        Grant as calculated under paragraph 
                        (5)(A) for that year, less
                          (ii) an amount equal to the amount 
                        determined to be the student aid index 
                        with respect to that student for that 
                        year, except that a student aid index 
                        of less than zero shall be considered 
                        to be zero for the purposes of this 
                        clause,
                rounded to the nearest $5, except that a 
                student eligible for less than the minimum 
                Federal Pell Grant as defined in section 
                (a)(2)(F) shall not be eligible for an award.
                  (C) A student who is not eligible for a 
                Federal Pell Grant under subparagraph (A) or 
                (B) shall be eligible for the minimum Federal 
                Pell Grant for an academic year in which the 
                student is enrolled in an eligible program full 
                time--
                          (i) in the case of a dependent 
                        student--
                                  (I) if the student's parent 
                                is a single parent, and the 
                                adjusted gross income is equal 
                                to or less than 325 percent of 
                                the poverty line; or
                                  (II) if the student's parent 
                                is not a single parent, and the 
                                adjusted gross income is equal 
                                to or less than 275 percent of 
                                the poverty line; or
                          (ii) in the case of an independent 
                        student--
                                  (I) if the student is a 
                                single parent, and the adjusted 
                                gross income is equal to or 
                                less than 400 percent of the 
                                poverty line;
                                  (II) if the student is a 
                                parent and is not a single 
                                parent, and the adjusted gross 
                                income is equal to or less than 
                                350 percent of the poverty 
                                line; or
                                  (III) if the student is not a 
                                parent, and the adjusted gross 
                                income is equal to or less than 
                                275 percent of the poverty 
                                line.
                  (D) For each academic year beginning before 
                July 1, 2026, a student eligible for the total 
                maximum Federal Pell Grant under subparagraph 
                (A) who has (or whose spouse or parent, as 
                applicable based on whose information is used 
                under such subparagraph, has) foreign income 
                that would, if added to adjusted gross income, 
                result in the student no longer being eligible 
                for such total maximum Federal Pell Grant, 
                shall not be provided a Federal Pell Grant 
                until the student aid administrator evaluates 
                the student's FAFSA and makes a determination 
                regarding whether it is appropriate to make an 
                adjustment under section 479A(b)(1)(B)(v), as 
                in effect for such academic year, to account 
                for such foreign income when determining the 
                student's eligibility for such total maximum 
                Federal Pell Grant.
                  (E) With respect to a student who is not 
                eligible for the total maximum Federal Pell 
                Grant under subparagraph (A) or a minimum 
                Federal Pell Grant under subparagraph (C), the 
                Secretary shall subtract from the student or 
                parents' adjusted gross income, as applicable 
                based on whose income is used for the Federal 
                Pell Grant calculation, the sum of the 
                following for the individual whose income is so 
                used, and consider such difference the adjusted 
                gross income for purposes of determining the 
                student's eligibility for such Federal Pell 
                Grant award under such subparagraph:
                          (i) If the applicant, or, if 
                        applicable, the parents or spouse of 
                        the applicant, elects to report 
                        receiving college grant and scholarship 
                        aid included in gross income on a 
                        Federal tax return described in section 
                        480(e)(2), the amount of such aid.
                          (ii) Income earned from work under 
                        part C of this title.
          (2) Less than full-time enrollment.--In any case 
        where a student is enrolled in an eligible program of 
        an institution of higher education on less than a full-
        time basis (including a student who attends an 
        institution of higher education on less than a half-
        time basis) during any academic year, the amount of the 
        Federal Pell Grant to which that student is entitled 
        shall be reduced in direct proportion to the degree to 
        which that student is not so enrolled on a full-time 
        basis, rounded to the nearest whole percentage point, 
        as provided in a schedule of reductions published by 
        the Secretary computed in accordance with this subpart. 
        Such schedule of reductions shall be published in the 
        Federal Register in accordance with section 482. Such 
        reduced Federal Pell Grant for a student enrolled on a 
        less than full-time basis shall also apply 
        proportionally to students who are otherwise eligible 
        to receive the minimum Federal Pell Grant, if enrolled 
        full-time.
          (3) Award may not exceed cost of attendance.--No 
        Federal Pell Grant under this subpart shall exceed the 
        cost of attendance (as defined in section 472) at the 
        institution at which that student is in attendance. If, 
        with respect to any student, it is determined that the 
        amount of a Federal Pell Grant for that student exceeds 
        the cost of attendance for that year, the amount of the 
        Federal Pell Grant shall be reduced until the Federal 
        Pell Grant does not exceed the cost of attendance at 
        such institution.
          (4) Study abroad.--Notwithstanding any other 
        provision of this subpart, the Secretary shall allow 
        the amount of the Federal Pell Grant to be exceeded for 
        students participating in a program of study abroad 
        approved for credit by the institution at which the 
        student is enrolled when the reasonable costs of such 
        program are greater than the cost of attendance at the 
        student's home institution, except that the amount of 
        such Federal Pell Grant in any fiscal year shall not 
        exceed the maximum amount of a Federal Pell Grant for 
        which a student is eligible under paragraph (1) or (2) 
        during such award year. If the preceding sentence 
        applies, the financial aid administrator at the home 
        institution may use the cost of the study abroad 
        program, rather than the home institution's cost, to 
        determine the cost of attendance of the student.
          (5) Total maximum federal pell grant.--
                  (A) In general.--For award year 2024-2025, 
                and each subsequent award year, the total 
                maximum Federal Pell Grant award per student 
                shall be equal to the sum of--
                          (i) $1,060; and
                          (ii) the amount specified as the 
                        maximum Federal Pell Grant in the last 
                        enacted appropriation Act applicable to 
                        that award year.
                  (B) Rounding.--The total maximum Federal Pell 
                Grant for any award year shall be rounded to 
                the nearest $5.
          (6) Funds by fiscal year.--
                  (A) In general.--To carry out this section--
                          (i) there are authorized to be 
                        appropriated and are appropriated (in 
                        addition to any other amounts 
                        appropriated to carry out this section 
                        and out of any money in the Treasury 
                        not otherwise appropriated) such sums 
                        as are necessary to carry out paragraph 
                        (5)(A)(i) for fiscal year 2024 and each 
                        subsequent fiscal year; and
                          (ii) such sums as may be necessary 
                        are authorized to be appropriated to 
                        carry out paragraph (5)(A)(ii) for each 
                        of the fiscal years 2024 through 2034.
                  (B) Availability of funds.--The amounts made 
                available by subparagraph (A) for any fiscal 
                year shall be available beginning on October 1 
                of that fiscal year, and shall remain available 
                through September 30 of the succeeding fiscal 
                year.
          (7) Appropriation.--
                  (A) In general.--In addition to any funds 
                appropriated under paragraph (6) and any funds 
                made available for this section under any 
                appropriations Act, there are authorized to be 
                appropriated, and there are appropriated (out 
                of any money in the Treasury not otherwise 
                appropriated) to carry out this section--
                          (i) $1,170,000,000 for fiscal year 
                        2024;
                          (ii) $3,170,000,000 for fiscal year 
                        2025;
                          (iii) $12,670,000,000 for fiscal year 
                        2026; [and]
                          [(iv) $1,236,000,000 for fiscal year 
                        2027 and each succeeding fiscal year.]
                          (iv) $16,270,000,000 for fiscal year 
                        2027; and
                          (v) $1,236,000,000 for fiscal year 
                        2028 and each succeeding fiscal year.
                  (B) No effect on previous appropriations.--
                The amendments made to this section by the 
                FAFSA Simplification Act shall not--
                          (i) increase or decrease the amounts 
                        that have been appropriated or are 
                        available to carry out this section for 
                        fiscal year 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 
                        2021, 2022, 2023, or 2024 as of the day 
                        before the effective date of such Act; 
                        or
                          (ii) extend the period of 
                        availability for obligation that 
                        applied to any such amount, as of the 
                        day before such effective date.
                  (C) Availability of funds.--The amounts made 
                available by this paragraph for any fiscal year 
                shall be available beginning on October 1 of 
                that fiscal year, and shall remain available 
                through September 30 of the succeeding fiscal 
                year.
          (8) Method of distribution.--
                  (A) In general.--For each fiscal year through 
                fiscal year 2034, the Secretary shall pay to 
                each eligible institution such sums as may be 
                necessary to pay each eligible student for each 
                academic year during which that student is in 
                attendance at an institution of higher 
                education as an undergraduate, a Federal Pell 
                Grant in the amount for which that student is 
                eligible.
                  (B) Alternative disbursement.--Nothing in 
                this section shall be interpreted to prohibit 
                the Secretary from paying directly to students, 
                in advance of the beginning of the academic 
                term, an amount for which they are eligible, in 
                the cases where an eligible institution does 
                not participate in the disbursement system 
                under subparagraph (A).
          (9) Additional payment periods in same award year.--
                  (A) Effective in the 2017-2018 award year and 
                thereafter, the Secretary shall award an 
                eligible student not more than one and one-half 
                Federal Pell Grants during a single award year 
                to permit such student to work toward 
                completion of an eligible program if, during 
                that single award year, the student has 
                received a Federal Pell Grant for an award year 
                and is enrolled in an eligible program for one 
                or more additional payment periods during the 
                same award year that are not otherwise fully 
                covered by the student's Federal Pell Grant.
                  (B) In the case of a student receiving more 
                than one Federal Pell Grant in a single award 
                year under subparagraph (A), the total amount 
                of Federal Pell Grants awarded to such student 
                for the award year may exceed the total maximum 
                Federal Pell Grant available for an award year.
                  (C) Any period of study covered by a Federal 
                Pell Grant awarded under subparagraph (A) shall 
                be included in determining a student's duration 
                limit under subsection (d)(5).
                  (D) In any case where an eligible student is 
                receiving a Federal Pell Grant for a payment 
                period that spans 2 award years, the Secretary 
                shall allow the eligible institution in which 
                the student is enrolled to determine the award 
                year to which the additional period shall be 
                assigned, as it determines is most beneficial 
                to students.
  (c) Special Rule.--
          (1) In general.--A student described in paragraph (2) 
        shall be eligible for the total maximum Federal Pell 
        Grant.
          (2) Applicability.--Paragraph (1) shall apply to any 
        dependent or independent student--
                  (A) whose parent or guardian was--
                          (i) an individual who, on or after 
                        September 11, 2001, died in the line of 
                        duty while serving on active duty as a 
                        member of the Armed Forces; or
                          (ii) actively serving as a public 
                        safety officer and died in the line of 
                        duty while performing as a public 
                        safety officer; and
                  (B) who is less than 33 years of age.
          (3) Information.--Notwithstanding any other provision 
        of law--
                  (A) the Secretary shall establish the 
                necessary data-sharing agreements with the 
                Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the Secretary 
                of Defense, as applicable, to provide the 
                information necessary to determine which 
                students meet the requirements of paragraph 
                (2)(A)(i); and
                  (B) the financial aid administrator shall 
                verify with the student that the student is 
                eligible for the adjustment and notify the 
                Secretary of the adjustment of the student's 
                eligibility.
          (4) Treatment of pell amount.--Notwithstanding 
        section 1212 of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe 
        Streets Act of 1968 (34 U.S.C. 10302), in the case of a 
        student who receives an increased Federal Pell Grant 
        amount under this section, the total amount of such 
        Federal Pell Grant, including the increase under this 
        subsection, shall not be considered in calculating that 
        student's educational assistance benefits under the 
        Public Safety Officers' Benefits program under subpart 
        2 of part L of title I of such Act.
          (5) Prevention of double benefits.--No eligible 
        student described in paragraph (2) may concurrently 
        receive a grant under both this subsection and 
        subsection (b).
          (6) Terms and conditions.--The Secretary shall award 
        grants under this subsection in the same manner and 
        with the same terms and conditions, including the 
        length of the period of eligibility, as the Secretary 
        awards Federal Pell Grants under subsection (b), except 
        that--
                  (A) the award rules and determination of need 
                applicable to the calculation of Federal Pell 
                Grants under subsection (b)(1) shall not apply 
                to grants made under this subsection; and
                  (B) the maximum period determined under 
                subsection (d)(5) shall be determined by 
                including all grants made under this section 
                received by the eligible student and all grants 
                so received under subpart 10 before the 
                effective date of this subsection.
          (7) Definition of public safety officer.--For 
        purposes of this subsection, the term ``public safety 
        officer'' means--
                  (A) a public safety officer, as defined in 
                section 1204 of title I of the Omnibus Crime 
                Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 (34 U.S.C. 
                10284); or
                  (B) a fire police officer, defined as an 
                individual who--
                          (i) is serving in accordance with 
                        State or local law as an officially 
                        recognized or designated member of a 
                        legally organized public safety agency;
                          (ii) is not a law enforcement 
                        officer, a firefighter, a chaplain, or 
                        a member of a rescue squad or ambulance 
                        crew; and
                          (iii) provides scene security or 
                        directs traffic--
                                  (I) in response to any fire 
                                drill, fire call, or other 
                                fire, rescue, or police 
                                emergency; or
                                  (II) at a planned special 
                                event.
  (d) Period of Eligibility for Grants.--
          (1) In general.--The period during which a student 
        may receive Federal Pell Grants shall be the period 
        required for the completion of the first undergraduate 
        baccalaureate course of study being pursued by that 
        student at the institution at which the student is in 
        attendance, except that any period during which the 
        student is enrolled in a noncredit or remedial course 
        of study, as described in paragraph (2), shall not be 
        counted for the purpose of this paragraph.
          (2) Noncredit or remedial courses; study abroad.--
        Nothing in this section shall exclude from eligibility 
        courses of study which are noncredit or remedial in 
        nature (including courses in English language 
        instruction) which are determined by the institution to 
        be necessary to help the student be prepared for the 
        pursuit of a first undergraduate baccalaureate degree 
        or certificate or, in the case of courses in English 
        language instruction, to be necessary to enable the 
        student to use already existing knowledge, training, or 
        skills. Nothing in this section shall exclude from 
        eligibility programs of study abroad that are approved 
        for credit by the home institution at which the student 
        is enrolled.
          (3) No concurrent payments.--No student is entitled 
        to receive Pell Grant payments concurrently from more 
        than one institution or from both the Secretary and an 
        institution.
          (4) Postbaccalaureate program.--Notwithstanding 
        paragraph (1), the Secretary may allow, on a case-by-
        case basis, a student to receive a Federal Pell Grant 
        if the student--
                  (A) is carrying at least one-half the normal 
                full-time work load for the course of study the 
                student is pursuing, as determined by the 
                institution of higher education; and
                  (B) is enrolled or accepted for enrollment in 
                a postbaccalaureate program that does not lead 
                to a graduate degree, and in courses required 
                by a State in order for the student to receive 
                a professional certification or licensing 
                credential that is required for employment as a 
                teacher in an elementary school or secondary 
                school in that State,
        except that this paragraph shall not apply to a student 
        who is enrolled in an institution of higher education 
        that offers a baccalaureate degree in education.
          (5) Maximum period.--
                  (A) In general.--Except as provided in 
                subparagraph (B), the period during which a 
                student may receive Federal Pell Grants shall 
                not exceed 12 semesters, or the equivalent of 
                12 semesters, as determined by the Secretary by 
                regulation. Such regulations shall provide, 
                with respect to a student who received a 
                Federal Pell Grant for a term but was enrolled 
                at a fraction of full time, that only that same 
                fraction of such semester or equivalent shall 
                count towards such duration limits.
                  (B) Exception.--
                          (i) In general.--Any Federal Pell 
                        Grant that a student received during a 
                        period described in subclause (I) or 
                        (II) of clause (ii) shall not count 
                        towards the student's duration limits 
                        under this paragraph.
                          (ii) Applicable periods.--Clause (i) 
                        shall apply with respect to any Federal 
                        Pell Grant awarded to a student to 
                        enroll in an eligible program at an 
                        institution--
                                  (I) during a period of a 
                                student's attendance at an 
                                institution--
                                          (aa) at which the 
                                        student was unable to 
                                        complete a course of 
                                        study due to the 
                                        closing of the 
                                        institution; or
                                          (bb) for which the 
                                        student was falsely 
                                        certified as eligible 
                                        for Federal aid under 
                                        this title; or
                                  (II) during a period--
                                          (aa) for which the 
                                        student received a loan 
                                        under this title; and
                                          (bb) for which the 
                                        loan described in item 
                                        (aa) is discharged 
                                        under--
                                                  (AA) section 
                                                437(c)(1) or 
                                                section 
                                                464(g)(1);
                                                  (BB) section 
                                                432(a)(6); or
                                                  (CC) section 
                                                455(h) due to 
                                                the student's 
                                                successful 
                                                assertion of a 
                                                defense to 
                                                repayment of 
                                                the loan, 
                                                including 
                                                defenses 
                                                provided to any 
                                                applicable 
                                                groups of 
                                                students.
          (6) Exclusion.--Beginning on July 1, 2026, and 
        notwithstanding this subsection or subsection (b), a 
        student shall not be eligible for a Federal Pell Grant 
        under subsection (b) during any period for which the 
        student receives grant aid from non-Federal sources, 
        including States, institutions of higher education, or 
        private sources, in an amount that equals or exceeds 
        the student's cost of attendance for such period.
  (e) Applications for Grants.--
          (1) Deadlines.--The Secretary shall from time to time 
        set dates by which students shall file the Free 
        Application for Federal Student Aid under section 483.
          (2) Application.--Each student desiring a Federal 
        Pell Grant for any year shall file the Free Application 
        for Federal Student Aid containing the information 
        necessary to enable the Secretary to carry out the 
        functions and responsibilities of this subpart.
  (f) Distribution of Grants to Students.--Payments under this 
section shall be made in accordance with regulations 
promulgated by the Secretary for such purpose, in such manner 
as will best accomplish the purpose of this section. Any 
disbursement allowed to be made by crediting the student's 
account shall be limited to tuition and fees, and food and 
housing if that food and housing is institutionally owned or 
operated. The student may elect to have the institution provide 
other such goods and services by crediting the student's 
account.
  (g) Insufficient Appropriations.--If, for any fiscal year, 
the funds appropriated for payments under this subpart are 
insufficient to satisfy fully all entitlements, as calculated 
under subsections (b) and (c) (but at the maximum grant level 
specified in such appropriation), the Secretary shall promptly 
transmit a notice of such insufficiency to each House of the 
Congress, and identify in such notice the additional amount 
that would be required to be appropriated to satisfy fully all 
entitlements (as so calculated at such maximum grant level).
  (h) Use of Excess Funds.--
          (1) 15 percent or less.--If, at the end of a fiscal 
        year, the funds available for making payments under 
        this subpart exceed the amount necessary to make the 
        payments required under this subpart to eligible 
        students by 15 percent or less, then all of the excess 
        funds shall remain available for making payments under 
        this subpart during the next succeeding fiscal year.
          (2) More than 15 percent.--If, at the end of a fiscal 
        year, the funds available for making payments under 
        this subpart exceed the amount necessary to make the 
        payments required under this subpart to eligible 
        students by more than 15 percent, then all of such 
        funds shall remain available for making such payments 
        but payments may be made under this paragraph only with 
        respect to entitlements for that fiscal year.
  (i) Treatment of Institutions and Students Under Other 
Laws.--Any institution of higher education which enters into an 
agreement with the Secretary to disburse to students attending 
that institution the amounts those students are eligible to 
receive under this subpart shall not be deemed, by virtue of 
such agreement, a contractor maintaining a system of records to 
accomplish a function of the Secretary. Recipients of Pell 
Grants shall not be considered to be individual grantees for 
purposes of chapter 81 of title 41, United States Code.
  (j) Institutional Ineligibility Based on Default Rates.--
          (1) In general.--No institution of higher education 
        shall be an eligible institution for purposes of this 
        subpart if such institution of higher education is 
        ineligible to participate in a loan program under part 
        B or D as a result of a final default rate 
        determination made by the Secretary under part B or D 
        after the final publication of cohort default rates for 
        fiscal year 1996 or a succeeding fiscal year.
          (2) Sanctions subject to appeal opportunity.--No 
        institution may be subject to the terms of this 
        subsection unless the institution has had the 
        opportunity to appeal the institution's default rate 
        determination under regulations issued by the Secretary 
        for the loan program authorized under part B or D, as 
        applicable. This subsection shall not apply to an 
        institution that was not participating in the loan 
        program authorized under part B or D on October 7, 
        1998, unless the institution subsequently participates 
        in the loan programs.
  (k) Workforce Pell Grant Program.--
          (1) In general.--For the award year beginning on July 
        1, 2026, and each subsequent award year, the Secretary 
        shall award grants (to be known as ``Workforce Pell 
        Grants'') to eligible students under paragraph (2) in 
        accordance with this subsection.
          (2) Eligible students.--To be eligible to receive a 
        Workforce Pell Grant under this subsection for any 
        period of enrollment, a student shall meet the 
        eligibility requirements for a Federal Pell Grant under 
        this section, except that the student--
                  (A) shall be enrolled, or accepted for 
                enrollment, in an eligible program under 
                section 481(b)(3) (hereinafter referred to as 
                an ``eligible workforce program''); and
                  (B) may not--
                          (i) be enrolled, or accepted for 
                        enrollment, in a program of study that 
                        leads to a graduate credential; or
                          (ii) have attained such a credential.
          (3) Terms and conditions of awards.--The Secretary 
        shall award Workforce Pell Grants under this subsection 
        in the same manner and with the same terms and 
        conditions as the Secretary awards Federal Pell Grants 
        under this section, except that--
                  (A) each use of the term ``eligible program'' 
                (except in subsection (b)(9)(A)) shall be 
                substituted by ``eligible workforce program 
                under section 481(b)(3)'';
                  (B) the provisions of subsection (d)(2) shall 
                not be applicable to eligible workforce 
                programs; and
                  (C) a student who is eligible for a grant 
                equal to less than the amount of the minimum 
                Federal Pell Grant because the eligible 
                workforce program in which the student is 
                enrolled or accepted for enrollment is less 
                than an academic year (in hours of instruction 
                or weeks of duration) may still be eligible for 
                a Workforce Pell Grant in an amount that is 
                prorated based on the length of the program.
          (4) Prevention of double benefits.--No eligible 
        student described in paragraph (2) may concurrently 
        receive a grant under both this subsection and--
                  (A) subsection (b); or
                  (B) subsection (c).
          (5) Duration limit.--Any period of study covered by a 
        Workforce Pell Grant awarded under this subsection 
        shall be included in determining a student's duration 
        limit under subsection (d)(5).

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


PART D--WILLIAM D. FORD FEDERAL DIRECT LOAN PROGRAM

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *


SEC. 455. TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF LOANS.

  (a) In General.--
          (1) Parallel terms, conditions, benefits, and 
        amounts.--Unless otherwise specified in this part, 
        loans made to borrowers under this part shall have the 
        same terms, conditions, and benefits, and be available 
        in the same amounts, as loans made to borrowers, and 
        first disbursed on June 30, 2010, under sections 428, 
        428B, 428C, and 428H of this title.
          (2) Designation of loans.--Loans made to borrowers 
        under this part that, except as otherwise specified in 
        this part, have the same terms, conditions, and 
        benefits as loans made to borrowers under--
                  (A) section 428 shall be known as ``Federal 
                Direct Stafford Loans'';
                  (B) section 428B shall be known as ``Federal 
                Direct PLUS Loans'';
                  (C) section 428C shall be known as ``Federal 
                Direct Consolidation Loans''; and
                  (D) section 428H shall be known as ``Federal 
                Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans''.
          (3) Termination of authority to make interest 
        subsidized loans and federal direct plus loans to 
        graduate and professional students.--
                  (A) Termination of authority to make interest 
                subsidized loans to graduate and professional 
                students.--Subject to subparagraph (B), and 
                notwithstanding any provision of this part or 
                part B--
                          (i) for any period of instruction 
                        beginning on or after July 1, 2012, a 
                        graduate or professional student shall 
                        not be eligible to receive a Federal 
                        Direct Stafford loan under this part; 
                        and
                          (ii) for any period of instruction 
                        beginning on July 1, 2012, and ending 
                        on June 30, 2026, the maximum annual 
                        amount of Federal Direct Unsubsidized 
                        Stafford loans such a student may 
                        borrow in any academic year (as defined 
                        in section 481(a)(2)) or its equivalent 
                        shall be the maximum annual amount for 
                        such student determined under section 
                        428H, plus an amount equal to the 
                        amount of Federal Direct Stafford loans 
                        the student would have received in the 
                        absence of this subparagraph.
                  (B) Exception.--Subparagraph (A) shall not 
                apply to an individual enrolled in course work 
                specified in paragraph (3)(B) or (4)(B) of 
                section 484(b).
                  (C) Termination of authority to make federal 
                direct plus loans to graduate and professional 
                students.--Subject to paragraph (8) and 
                notwithstanding any provision of this part or 
                part B, for any period of instruction beginning 
                on or after July 1, 2026, a graduate or 
                professional student shall not be eligible to 
                receive a Federal Direct PLUS Loan under this 
                part.
                  (D) Termination of authority to make 
                subsidized loans to undergraduate students.-- 
                Subject to paragraph (8) and notwithstanding 
                any provision of this part or part B, for any 
                period of instruction beginning on or after 
                July 1, 2027--
                          (i) an undergraduate student shall 
                        not be eligible to receive a Federal 
                        Direct Stafford loan under this part; 
                        and
                          (ii) the maximum annual amount of 
                        Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford 
                        loans such a student may borrow in any 
                        academic year (as defined in section 
                        481(a)(2)) or its equivalent shall be 
                        the maximum annual amount for such 
                        student determined under section 428H, 
                        plus an amount equal to the amount of 
                        Federal Direct Stafford loans the 
                        student would have received in the 
                        absence of this subparagraph.
          (4) Graduate and professional annual and aggregate 
        limits for federal direct unsubsidized stafford loans 
        beginning july 1, 2026.--
                  (A) Annual limits beginning july 1, 2026.--
                Subject to paragraphs (7)(A) and (8), beginning 
                on July 1, 2026, the maximum annual amount of 
                Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford loans--
                          (i) a graduate student, who is not a 
                        professional student, may borrow in any 
                        academic year or its equivalent shall 
                        be $20,500; and
                          (ii) a professional student may 
                        borrow in any academic year or its 
                        equivalent shall be $50,000.
                  (B) Aggregate limits.--Subject to paragraphs 
                (6), (7)(A), and (8), beginning on July 1, 
                2026, the maximum aggregate amount of Federal 
                Direct Unsubsidized Stafford loans, in addition 
                to the amount borrowed for undergraduate 
                education, that--
                          (i) a graduate student--
                                  (I) who is not (and has not 
                                been) a professional student, 
                                may borrow for programs of 
                                study described in subparagraph 
                                (C)(i) shall be $100,000; or
                                  (II) who is (or has been) a 
                                professional student, may 
                                borrow for programs of study 
                                described in subparagraph 
                                (C)(i) shall be an amount equal 
                                to--
                                          (aa) $200,000; minus
                                          (bb) the amount such 
                                        student borrowed for 
                                        programs of study 
                                        described in 
                                        subparagraph (C)(ii); 
                                        and
                          (ii) a professional student--
                                  (I) who is not (and has not 
                                been) a graduate student, may 
                                borrow for programs of study 
                                described in subparagraph 
                                (C)(ii) shall be $200,000; or
                                  (II) who is (or has been) a 
                                graduate student, may borrow 
                                for programs of study described 
                                in subparagraph (C)(ii) shall 
                                be an amount equal to--
                                          (aa) $200,000; minus
                                          (bb) the amount such 
                                        student borrowed for 
                                        programs of study 
                                        described in 
                                        subparagraph (C)(i).
                  (C) Definitions.--
                          (i) Graduate student.--The term 
                        ``graduate student'' means a student 
                        enrolled in a program of study that 
                        awards a graduate credential (other 
                        than a professional degree) upon 
                        completion of the program.
                          (ii) Professional student.--In this 
                        paragraph, the term ``professional 
                        student'' means a student enrolled in a 
                        program of study that awards a 
                        professional degree, as defined under 
                        section 668.2 of title 34, Code of 
                        Federal Regulations (as in effect on 
                        the date of enactment of this 
                        paragraph), upon completion of the 
                        program.
          (5) Parent borrower annual and aggregate limits for 
        federal direct plus loans beginning july 1, 2026.--
                  (A) Annual limits.--Subject to paragraph (8) 
                and notwithstanding any provision of this part 
                or part B, beginning on July 1, 2026, for each 
                dependent student, the total maximum annual 
                amount of Federal Direct PLUS loans that may be 
                borrowed on behalf of that dependent student by 
                all parents of that dependent student shall be 
                $20,000.
                  (B) Aggregate limits.--Subject to paragraph 
                (8) and notwithstanding any provision of this 
                part or part B, beginning on July 1, 2026, for 
                each dependent student, the total maximum 
                aggregate amount of Federal Direct PLUS loans 
                that may be borrowed on behalf of that 
                dependent student by all parents of that 
                dependent student shall be $65,000, without 
                regard to any amounts repaid, forgiven, 
                canceled, or otherwise discharged on any such 
                loan.
          (6) Lifetime maximum aggregate amount for all 
        students.--Subject to paragraph (8) and notwithstanding 
        any provision of this part or part B, beginning on July 
        1, 2026, the maximum aggregate amount of loans made, 
        insured, or guaranteed under this title that a student 
        may borrow (other than a Federal Direct PLUS loan, or 
        loan under section 428B, made to the student as a 
        parent borrower on behalf of a dependent student) shall 
        be $257,500, without regard to any amounts repaid, 
        forgiven, canceled, or otherwise discharged on any such 
        loan. 
          (7) Additional rules regarding annual loan limits.--
                  (A) Less than full-time enrollment.--
                Notwithstanding any provision of this part or 
                part B, in any case in which a student is 
                enrolled in a program of study of an 
                institution of higher education on less than a 
                full-time basis during any academic year, the 
                amount of a loan that student may borrow for an 
                academic year or its equivalent shall be 
                reduced in direct proportion to the degree to 
                which that student is not so enrolled on a 
                full-time basis, rounded to the nearest whole 
                percentage point, as provided in a schedule of 
                reductions published by the Secretary computed 
                for purposes of this subparagraph.
                  (B) Institutionally determined limits.--
                Notwithstanding the annual loan limits 
                established under this section and, for 
                undergraduate students, under this part and 
                part B, beginning on July 1, 2026, an 
                institution of higher education (at the 
                discretion of a financial aid administrator at 
                the institution) may limit the total amount of 
                loans made under this part for a program of 
                study for an academic year that a student may 
                borrow, and that a parent may borrow on behalf 
                of such student, as long as any such limit is 
                applied consistently to all students enrolled 
                in such program of study.
          (8) Interim exception for certain students.--
                  (A) Application of prior limits.--Paragraphs 
                (3)(C), (4), (5), and (6) shall not apply, and 
                paragraph (3)(A)(ii) shall apply as such 
                paragraph was in effect for periods of 
                instruction ending before June 30, 2026, during 
                the expected time to credential described in 
                subparagraph (B), with respect to an individual 
                who, as of June 30, 2026--
                          (i) is enrolled in a program of study 
                        at an institution of higher education; 
                        and
                          (ii) has received a loan (or on whose 
                        behalf a loan was made) under this part 
                        for such program of study.
                  (B) Expected time to credential.--For 
                purposes of this paragraph, the expected time 
                to credential of an individual shall be equal 
                to the lesser of--
                          (i) three academic years; or
                          (ii) the period determined by 
                        calculating the difference between--
                                  (I) the program length for 
                                the program of study in which 
                                the individual is enrolled; and
                                  (II) the period of such 
                                program of study that such 
                                individual has completed as of 
                                the date of the determination 
                                under this subparagraph.
                  (C) Definition of program length.--In this 
                paragraph, the term ``program length'' means 
                the minimum amount of time in weeks, months, or 
                years that is specified in the catalog, 
                marketing materials, or other official 
                publications of an institution of higher 
                education for a full-time student to complete 
                the requirements for a specific program of 
                study.
                  (D) Application of prior undergraduate 
                limits.--Paragraph (3)(D) shall not apply 
                during the expected time to credential 
                described in subparagraph (B), with respect to 
                an individual who, as of June 30, 2027, meets 
                the requirements of clauses (i) and (ii) of 
                subparagraph (A).
  (b) Interest Rate.--
          (1) Rates for fdsl and fdusl.--For Federal Direct 
        Stafford Loans and Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford 
        Loans for which the first disbursement is made on or 
        after July 1, 1994, the applicable rate of interest 
        shall, during any 12-month period beginning on July 1 
        and ending on June 30, be determined on the preceding 
        June 1 and be equal to--
                  (A) the bond equivalent rate of 91-day 
                Treasury bills auctioned at the final auction 
                held prior to such June 1; plus
                  (B) 3.1 percent,
        except that such rate shall not exceed 8.25 percent.
          (2) In school and grace period rules.--(A) 
        Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (1), but 
        subject to paragraph (3), with respect to any Federal 
        Direct Stafford Loan or Federal Direct Unsubsidized 
        Stafford Loan for which the first disbursement is made 
        on or after July 1, 1995, the applicable rate of 
        interest for interest which accrues--
                  (i) prior to the beginning of the repayment 
                period of the loan; or
                  (ii) during the period in which principal 
                need not be paid (whether or not such principal 
                is in fact paid) by reason of a provision 
                described in section 428(b)(1)(M) or 
                427(a)(2)(C),
        shall not exceed the rate determined under subparagraph 
        (B).
          (B) For the purpose of subparagraph (A), the rate 
        determined under this subparagraph shall, during any 
        12-month period beginning on July 1 and ending on June 
        30, be determined on the preceding June 1 and be equal 
        to--
                  (i) the bond equivalent rate of 91-day 
                Treasury bills auctioned at the final auction 
                prior to such June 1; plus
                  (ii) 2.5 percent,
        except that such rate shall not exceed 8.25 percent.
          (3) Out-year rule.--Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) 
        and (2), for Federal Direct Stafford Loans and Federal 
        Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans made on or after 
        July 1, 1998, the applicable rate of interest shall, 
        during any 12-month period beginning on July 1 and 
        ending on June 30, be determined on the preceding June 
        1 and be equal to--
                  (A) the bond equivalent rate of the security 
                with a comparable maturity as established by 
                the Secretary; plus
                  (B) 1.0 percent,
        except that such rate shall not exceed 8.25 percent.
          (4) Rates for fdplus.--
                  (A)(i) For Federal Direct PLUS Loans for 
                which the first disbursement is made on or 
                after July 1, 1994, the applicable rate of 
                interest shall, during any 12-month period 
                beginning on July 1 and ending on or before 
                June 30, 2001, be determined on the preceding 
                June 1 and be equal to--
                          (I) the bond equivalent rate of 52-
                        week Treasury bills auctioned at final 
                        auction held prior to such June 1; plus
                          (II) 3.1 percent,
                except that such rate shall not exceed 9 
                percent.
                  (ii) For any 12-month period beginning on 
                July 1 of 2001 or any succeeding year, the 
                applicable rate of interest determined under 
                this subparagraph shall be determined on the 
                preceding June 26 and be equal to--
                          (I) the weekly average 1-year 
                        constant maturity Treasury yield, as 
                        published by the Board of Governors of 
                        the Federal Reserve System, for the 
                        last calendar week ending on or before 
                        such June 26; plus
                          (II) 3.1 percent,
                except that such rate shall not exceed 9 
                percent.
          (B) For Federal Direct PLUS loans made on or after 
        July 1, 1998, the applicable rate of interest shall, 
        during any 12-month period beginning on July 1 and 
        ending on June 30, be determined on the preceding June 
        1 and be equal to--
                  (i) the bond equivalent rate of the security 
                with a comparable maturity as established by 
                the Secretary; plus
                  (ii) 2.1 percent,
        except that such rate shall not exceed 9 percent.
          (5) Temporary interest rate provision.--
                  (A) Rates for fdsl and fdusl.--
                Notwithstanding the preceding paragraphs of 
                this subsection, for Federal Direct Stafford 
                Loans and Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford 
                Loans for which the first disbursement is made 
                on or after July 1, 1998, and before October 1, 
                1998, the applicable rate of interest shall, 
                during any 12-month period beginning on July 1 
                and ending on June 30, be determined on the 
                preceding June 1 and be equal to--
                          (i) the bond equivalent rate of 91-
                        day Treasury bills auctioned at the 
                        final auction held prior to such June 
                        1; plus
                          (ii) 2.3 percent,
                except that such rate shall not exceed 8.25 
                percent.
                  (B) In school and grace period rules.--
                Notwithstanding the preceding paragraphs of 
                this subsection, with respect to any Federal 
                Direct Stafford Loan or Federal Direct 
                Unsubsidized Stafford Loan for which the first 
                disbursement is made on or after July 1, 1998, 
                and before October 1, 1998, the applicable rate 
                of interest for interest which accrues--
                          (i) prior to the beginning of the 
                        repayment period of the loan; or
                          (ii) during the period in which 
                        principal need not be paid (whether or 
                        not such principal is in fact paid) by 
                        reason of a provision described in 
                        section 428(b)(1)(M) or 427(a)(2)(C),
                shall be determined under subparagraph (A) by 
                substituting ``1.7 percent'' for ``2.3 
                percent''.
                  (C) PLUS loans.--Notwithstanding the 
                preceding paragraphs of this subsection, with 
                respect to Federal Direct PLUS Loan for which 
                the first disbursement is made on or after July 
                1, 1998, and before October 1, 1998, the 
                applicable rate of interest shall be determined 
                under subparagraph (A)--
                          (i) by substituting ``3.1 percent'' 
                        for ``2.3 percent''; and
                          (ii) by substituting ``9.0 percent'' 
                        for ``8.25 percent''.
          (6) Interest rate provision for new loans on or after 
        october 1, 1998, and before july 1, 2006.--
                  (A) Rates for fdsl and fdusl.--
                Notwithstanding the preceding paragraphs of 
                this subsection, for Federal Direct Stafford 
                Loans and Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford 
                Loans for which the first disbursement is made 
                on or after October 1, 1998, and before July 1, 
                2006, the applicable rate of interest shall, 
                during any 12-month period beginning on July 1 
                and ending on June 30, be determined on the 
                preceding June 1 and be equal to--
                          (i) the bond equivalent rate of 91-
                        day Treasury bills auctioned at the 
                        final auction held prior to such June 
                        1; plus
                          (ii) 2.3 percent,
                except that such rate shall not exceed 8.25 
                percent.
                  (B) In school and grace period rules.--
                Notwithstanding the preceding paragraphs of 
                this subsection, with respect to any Federal 
                Direct Stafford Loan or Federal Direct 
                Unsubsidized Stafford Loan for which the first 
                disbursement is made on or after October 1, 
                1998, and before July 1, 2006, the applicable 
                rate of interest for interest which accrues--
                          (i) prior to the beginning of the 
                        repayment period of the loan; or
                          (ii) during the period in which 
                        principal need not be paid (whether or 
                        not such principal is in fact paid) by 
                        reason of a provision described in 
                        section 428(b)(1)(M) or 427(a)(2)(C),
                shall be determined under subparagraph (A) by 
                substituting ``1.7 percent'' for ``2.3 
                percent''.
                  (C) PLUS loans.--Notwithstanding the 
                preceding paragraphs of this subsection, with 
                respect to Federal Direct PLUS Loan for which 
                the first disbursement is made on or after 
                October 1, 1998, and before July 1, 2006, the 
                applicable rate of interest shall be determined 
                under subparagraph (A)--
                          (i) by substituting ``3.1 percent'' 
                        for ``2.3 percent''; and
                          (ii) by substituting ``9.0 percent'' 
                        for ``8.25 percent''.
                  (D) Consolidation loans.--Notwithstanding the 
                preceding paragraphs of this subsection, any 
                Federal Direct Consolidation loan for which the 
                application is received on or after February 1, 
                1999, and before July 1, 2006, shall bear 
                interest at an annual rate on the unpaid 
                principal balance of the loan that is equal to 
                the lesser of--
                          (i) the weighted average of the 
                        interest rates on the loans 
                        consolidated, rounded to the nearest 
                        higher one-eighth of one percent; or
                          (ii) 8.25 percent.
                  (E) Temporary rules for consolidation 
                loans.--Notwithstanding the preceding 
                paragraphs of this subsection, any Federal 
                Direct Consolidation loan for which the 
                application is received on or after October 1, 
                1998, and before February 1, 1999, shall bear 
                interest at an annual rate on the unpaid 
                principal balance of the loan that is equal 
                to--
                          (i) the bond equivalent rate of 91-
                        day Treasury bills auctioned at the 
                        final auction held prior to such June 
                        1; plus
                          (ii) 2.3 percent,
                except that such rate shall not exceed 8.25 
                percent.
          (7) Interest rate provision for new loans on or after 
        july 1, 2006 and before july 1, 2013.--
                  (A) Rates for fdsl and fdusl.--
                Notwithstanding the preceding paragraphs of 
                this subsection, for Federal Direct Stafford 
                Loans and Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford 
                Loans for which the first disbursement is made 
                on or after July 1, 2006, and before July 1, 
                2013, the applicable rate of interest shall be 
                6.8 percent on the unpaid principal balance of 
                the loan.
                  (B) PLUS loans.--Notwithstanding the 
                preceding paragraphs of this subsection, with 
                respect to any Federal Direct PLUS loan for 
                which the first disbursement is made on or 
                after July 1, 2006, and before July 1, 2013, 
                the applicable rate of interest shall be 7.9 
                percent on the unpaid principal balance of the 
                loan.
                  (C) Consolidation loans.--Notwithstanding the 
                preceding paragraphs of this subsection, any 
                Federal Direct Consolidation loan for which the 
                application is received on or after July 1, 
                2006, and before July 1, 2013, shall bear 
                interest at an annual rate on the unpaid 
                principal balance of the loan that is equal to 
                the lesser of--
                          (i) the weighted average of the 
                        interest rates on the loans 
                        consolidated, rounded to the nearest 
                        higher one-eighth of one percent; or
                          (ii) 8.25 percent.
                  (D) Reduced rates for undergraduate fdsl.--
                Notwithstanding the preceding paragraphs of 
                this subsection and subparagraph (A) of this 
                paragraph, for Federal Direct Stafford Loans 
                made to undergraduate students for which the 
                first disbursement is made on or after July 1, 
                2006, and before July 1, 2013, the applicable 
                rate of interest shall be as follows:
                          (i) For a loan for which the first 
                        disbursement is made on or after July 
                        1, 2006, and before July 1, 2008, 6.8 
                        percent on the unpaid principal balance 
                        of the loan.
                          (ii) For a loan for which the first 
                        disbursement is made on or after July 
                        1, 2008, and before July 1, 2009, 6.0 
                        percent on the unpaid principal balance 
                        of the loan.
                          (iii) For a loan for which the first 
                        disbursement is made on or after July 
                        1, 2009, and before July 1, 2010, 5.6 
                        percent on the unpaid principal balance 
                        of the loan.
                          (iv) For a loan for which the first 
                        disbursement is made on or after July 
                        1, 2010, and before July 1, 2011, 4.5 
                        percent on the unpaid principal balance 
                        of the loan.
                          (v) For a loan for which the first 
                        disbursement is made on or after July 
                        1, 2011, and before July 1, 2013, 3.4 
                        percent on the unpaid principal balance 
                        of the loan.
          (8) Interest rate provisions for new loans on or 
        after july 1, 2013.--
                  (A) Rates for undergraduate fdsl and fdusl.--
                Notwithstanding the preceding paragraphs of 
                this subsection, for Federal Direct Stafford 
                Loans and Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford 
                Loans issued to undergraduate students, for 
                which the first disbursement is made on or 
                after July 1, 2013, the applicable rate of 
                interest shall, for loans disbursed during any 
                12-month period beginning on July 1 and ending 
                on June 30, be determined on the preceding June 
                1 and be equal to the lesser of--
                          (i) a rate equal to the high yield of 
                        the 10-year Treasury note auctioned at 
                        the final auction held prior to such 
                        June 1 plus 2.05 percent; or
                          (ii) 8.25 percent.
                  (B) Rates for graduate and professional 
                fdusl.--Notwithstanding the preceding 
                paragraphs of this subsection, for Federal 
                Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans issued to 
                graduate or professional students, for which 
                the first disbursement is made on or after July 
                1, 2013, the applicable rate of interest shall, 
                for loans disbursed during any 12-month period 
                beginning on July 1 and ending on June 30, be 
                determined on the preceding June 1 and be equal 
                to the lesser of--
                          (i) a rate equal to the high yield of 
                        the 10-year Treasury note auctioned at 
                        the final auction held prior to such 
                        June 1 plus 3.6 percent; or
                          (ii) 9.5 percent.
                  (C) PLUS loans.--Notwithstanding the 
                preceding paragraphs of this subsection, for 
                Federal Direct PLUS Loans, for which the first 
                disbursement is made on or after July 1, 2013, 
                the applicable rate of interest shall, for 
                loans disbursed during any 12-month period 
                beginning on July 1 and ending on June 30, be 
                determined on the preceding June 1 and be equal 
                to the lesser of--
                          (i) a rate equal to the high yield of 
                        the 10-year Treasury note auctioned at 
                        the final auction held prior to such 
                        June 1 plus 4.6 percent; or
                          (ii) 10.5 percent.
                  (D) Consolidation loans.--Notwithstanding the 
                preceding paragraphs of this subsection, any 
                Federal Direct Consolidation Loan for which the 
                application is received on or after July 1, 
                2013, shall bear interest at an annual rate on 
                the unpaid principal balance of the loan that 
                is equal to the weighted average of the 
                interest rates on the loans consolidated, 
                rounded to the nearest higher one-eighth of one 
                percent.
                  (E) Consultation.--The Secretary shall 
                determine the applicable rate of interest under 
                this paragraph after consultation with the 
                Secretary of the Treasury and shall publish 
                such rate in the Federal Register as soon as 
                practicable after the date of determination.
                  (F) Rate.--The applicable rate of interest 
                determined under this paragraph for a Federal 
                Direct Stafford Loan, a Federal Direct 
                Unsubsidized Stafford Loan, or a Federal Direct 
                PLUS Loan shall be fixed for the period of the 
                loan.
          (9) Repayment incentives.--
                  (A)(A) Incentives for loans disbursed before 
                july 1, 2012.--Notwithstanding any other 
                provision of this part with respect to loans 
                for which the first disbursement of principal 
                is made before July 1, 2012,, the Secretary is 
                authorized to prescribe by regulation such 
                reductions in the interest or origination fee 
                rate paid by a borrower of a loan made under 
                this part as the Secretary determines 
                appropriate to encourage on-time repayment of 
                the loan. Such reductions may be offered only 
                if the Secretary determines the reductions are 
                cost neutral and in the best financial interest 
                of the Federal Government. Any increase in 
                subsidy costs resulting from such reductions 
                shall be completely offset by corresponding 
                savings in funds available for the William D. 
                Ford Federal Direct Loan Program in that fiscal 
                year from section 458 and other administrative 
                accounts.
                  (B) Accountability.--Prior to publishing 
                regulations proposing repayment incentives with 
                respect to loans for which the first 
                disbursement of principal is made before July 
                1, 2012, the Secretary shall ensure the cost 
                neutrality of such reductions. The Secretary 
                shall not prescribe such regulations in final 
                form unless an official report from the 
                Director of the Office of Management and Budget 
                to the Secretary and a comparable report from 
                the Director of the Congressional Budget Office 
                to the Congress each certify that any such 
                reductions will be completely cost neutral. 
                Such reports shall be transmitted to the 
                authorizing committees not less than 60 days 
                prior to the publication of regulations 
                proposing such reductions.
                  (C) No repayment incentives for new loans 
                disbursed on or after july 1, 2012.--
                Notwithstanding any other provision of this 
                part, the Secretary is prohibited from 
                authorizing or providing any repayment 
                incentive not otherwise authorized under this 
                part to encourage on-time repayment of a loan 
                under this part for which the first 
                disbursement of principal is made on or after 
                July 1, 2012, including any reduction in the 
                interest or origination fee rate paid by a 
                borrower of such a loan, except that the 
                Secretary may provide for an interest rate 
                reduction for a borrower who agrees to have 
                payments on such a loan automatically 
                electronically debited from a bank account.
          (10) Publication.--The Secretary shall determine the 
        applicable rates of interest under this subsection 
        after consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury 
        and shall publish such rate in the Federal Register as 
        soon as practicable after the date of determination.
  (c) Loan Fee.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary shall charge the 
        borrower of a loan made under this part an origination 
        fee of 4.0 percent of the principal amount of loan.
          (2) Subsequent reduction.--Paragraph (1) shall be 
        applied to loans made under this part, other than 
        Federal Direct Consolidation loans and Federal Direct 
        PLUS loans--
                  (A) by substituting ``3.0 percent'' for ``4.0 
                percent'' with respect to loans for which the 
                first disbursement of principal is made on or 
                after the date of enactment of the Higher 
                Education Reconciliation Act of 2005, and 
                before July 1, 2007;
                  (B) by substituting ``2.5 percent'' for ``4.0 
                percent'' with respect to loans for which the 
                first disbursement of principal is made on or 
                after July 1, 2007, and before July 1, 2008;
                  (C) by substituting ``2.0 percent'' for ``4.0 
                percent'' with respect to loans for which the 
                first disbursement of principal is made on or 
                after July 1, 2008, and before July 1, 2009;
                  (D) by substituting ``1.5 percent'' for ``4.0 
                percent'' with respect to loans for which the 
                first disbursement of principal is made on or 
                after July 1, 2009, and before July 1, 2010; 
                and
                  (E) by substituting ``1.0 percent'' for ``4.0 
                percent'' with respect to loans for which the 
                first disbursement of principal is made on or 
                after July 1, 2010.
  (d) Repayment Plans.--
          (1) Design and selection.--Consistent with criteria 
        established by the Secretary, the Secretary shall offer 
        a borrower of a loan made under this part before July 
        1, 2026, who has not received a loan made under this 
        part on or after July 1, 2026, a variety of plans for 
        repayment of such loan, including principal and 
        interest on the loan. The borrower shall be entitled to 
        accelerate, without penalty, repayment on the 
        borrower's loans under this part. The borrower may 
        choose--
                  (A) a standard repayment plan, consistent 
                with subsection (a)(1) of this section and with 
                section 428(b)(9)(A)(i);
                  (B) a graduated repayment plan, consistent 
                with section 428(b)(9)(A)(ii);
                  (C) an extended repayment plan, consistent 
                with section 428(b)(9)(A)(iv), except that the 
                borrower shall annually repay a minimum amount 
                determined by the Secretary in accordance with 
                section 428(b)(1)(L);
                  (D) before June 30, 2028, an income 
                contingent repayment plan, with varying annual 
                repayment amounts based on the income of the 
                borrower, paid over an extended period of time 
                prescribed by the Secretary, not to exceed 25 
                years, except that the plan described in this 
                subparagraph shall not be available to the 
                borrower of a Federal Direct PLUS loan made on 
                behalf of a dependent student;
                  (E) beginning on July 1, 2009, an income-
                based repayment plan in accordance with section 
                493C, except that the plan described in this 
                subparagraph shall not be available to the 
                borrower of a Federal Direct PLUS Loan made on 
                behalf of a dependent student or an excepted 
                Consolidation Loan (as defined in section 
                493C(a)(2)); and
                  (F) beginning on July 1, 2026, the income-
                based Repayment Assistance Plan under 
                subsection (q), provided that--
                          (i) such Plan shall not be available 
                        for the repayment of excepted loans (as 
                        defined in paragraph (7)(E)); and
                          (ii) the borrower is required to pay 
                        each outstanding loan of the borrower 
                        made under this part under such 
                        Repayment Assistance Plan, except that 
                        a borrower of an excepted loan (as 
                        defined in paragraph (7)(E)) may repay 
                        the excepted loan separately from other 
                        loans under this part obtained by the 
                        borrower.
          (2) Selection by secretary.--If a borrower of a loan 
        made under this part does not select a repayment plan 
        described in paragraph (1), the Secretary may provide 
        the borrower with a repayment plan described in 
        subparagraph (A), (B), or (C) of paragraph (1).
          (3) Changes in selections.--The borrower of a loan 
        made under this part may change the borrower's 
        selection of a repayment plan under paragraph (1), or 
        the Secretary's selection of a plan for the borrower 
        under paragraph (2), as the case may be, under such 
        terms and conditions as may be established by the 
        Secretary.
          (4) Alternative repayment plans.--The Secretary may 
        provide, on a case by case basis, an alternative 
        repayment plan to a borrower of a loan made under this 
        part who demonstrates to the satisfaction of the 
        Secretary that the terms and conditions of the 
        repayment plans available under paragraph (1) are not 
        adequate to accommodate the borrower's exceptional 
        circumstances. In designing such alternative repayment 
        plans, the Secretary shall ensure that such plans do 
        not exceed the cost to the Federal Government, as 
        determined on the basis of the present value of future 
        payments by such borrowers, of loans made using the 
        plans available under paragraph (1).
          (5) Repayment after default.--The Secretary may 
        require any borrower who has defaulted on a loan made 
        under this part to--
                  (A) pay all reasonable collection costs 
                associated with such loan; and
                  (B) repay the loan pursuant to an income-
                based repayment plan under subsection (q) or 
                section 493C, as applicable.
          (6) Termination and limitation of repayment 
        authority.--
                  (A) Sunset of repayment plans available 
                before july 1, 2026.--Paragraphs (1) through 
                (4) of this subsection shall only apply to 
                loans made under this part before July 1, 2026.
                  (B) Prohibitions.--The Secretary may not, for 
                any loan made under this part on or after July 
                1, 2026--
                          (i) authorize a borrower of such a 
                        loan to repay such loan pursuant to a 
                        repayment plan that is not described in 
                        paragraph (7)(A); or
                          (ii) carry out or modify a repayment 
                        plan that is not described in such 
                        paragraph.
          (7) Repayment plans for loans made on or after july 
        1, 2026.--
                  (A) Design and selection.--Beginning on July 
                1, 2026, the Secretary shall offer a borrower 
                of a loan made under this part on or after such 
                date (including such a borrower who also has a 
                loan made under this part before such date) two 
                plans for repayment of the borrower's loans 
                under this part, including principal and 
                interest on such loans. The borrower shall be 
                entitled to accelerate, without penalty, 
                repayment on such loans. The borrower may 
                choose--
                          (i) a standard repayment plan--
                                  (I) with a fixed monthly 
                                repayment amount paid over a 
                                fixed period of time equal to 
                                the applicable period 
                                determined under subclause 
                                (II); and
                                  (II) with the applicable 
                                period of time for repayment 
                                determined based on the total 
                                outstanding principal of all 
                                loans of the borrower made 
                                under this part before, on, or 
                                after July 1, 2026, at the time 
                                the borrower is entering 
                                repayment under such plan, as 
                                follows--
                                          (aa) for a borrower 
                                        with total outstanding 
                                        principal of less than 
                                        $25,000, a period of 10 
                                        years;
                                          (bb) for a borrower 
                                        with total outstanding 
                                        principal of not less 
                                        than $25,000 and less 
                                        than $50,000, a period 
                                        of 15 years;
                                          (cc) for a borrower 
                                        with total outstanding 
                                        principal of not less 
                                        than $50,000 and less 
                                        than $100,000, a period 
                                        of 20 years; and
                                          (dd) for a borrower 
                                        with total outstanding 
                                        principal of $100,000 
                                        or more, a period of 25 
                                        years; or
                          (ii) the income-based Repayment 
                        Assistance Plan under subsection (q).
                  (B) Selection by secretary.--If a borrower of 
                a loan made under this part on or after July 1, 
                2026, does not select a repayment plan 
                described in subparagraph (A), the Secretary 
                shall provide the borrower with the standard 
                repayment plan described in subparagraph 
                (A)(i).
                  (C) Selection applies to all outstanding 
                loans.--A borrower is required to pay each 
                outstanding loan of the borrower made under 
                this part under the same selected repayment 
                plan, except that a borrower who selects the 
                Repayment Assistance Plan and also has an 
                excepted loan that is not eligible for 
                repayment under such Repayment Assistance Plan 
                shall repay the excepted loan separately from 
                other loans under this part obtained by the 
                borrower.
                  (D) Changes of repayment plan.--A borrower 
                may change the borrower's selection of--
                          (i) the standard repayment plan under 
                        subparagraph (A)(i), or the Secretary's 
                        selection of such plan for the borrower 
                        under subparagraph (B), as the case may 
                        be, to the Repayment Assistance Plan 
                        under subparagraph (A)(ii) at any time; 
                        and
                          (ii) the Repayment Assistance Plan 
                        under subparagraph (A)(ii) to the 
                        standard repayment plan under 
                        subparagraph (A)(i) at any time.
                  (E) Repayment for borrowers with excepted 
                loans made on or after july 1, 2026.--
                          (i) Standard repayment plan 
                        required.--Notwithstanding 
                        subparagraphs (A) through (D), 
                        beginning on July 1, 2026, the 
                        Secretary shall require a borrower who 
                        has received an excepted loan made on 
                        or after such date (including such a 
                        borrower who also has an excepted loan 
                        made before such date) to repay each 
                        excepted loan, including principal and 
                        interest on those excepted loans, under 
                        the standard repayment plan under 
                        subparagraph (A)(i). The borrower shall 
                        be entitled to accelerate, without 
                        penalty, repayment on such loans.
                          (ii) Excepted loan defined.--For the 
                        purposes of this paragraph, the term 
                        ``excepted loan'' means a loan with an 
                        outstanding balance that is--
                                  (I) a Federal Direct PLUS 
                                Loan that is made on behalf of 
                                a dependent student; or
                                  (II) a Federal Direct 
                                Consolidation Loan, if the 
                                proceeds of such loan were used 
                                to discharge the liability on--
                                          (aa) an excepted PLUS 
                                        loan, as defined in 
                                        section 493C(a)(1); or
                                          (bb) an excepted 
                                        consolidation loan (as 
                                        such term is defined in 
                                        section 493C(a)(2)(A), 
                                        notwithstanding 
                                        subparagraph (B) of 
                                        such section).
  (e) Income Contingent Repayment.--
          (1) Information and procedures.--The Secretary may 
        obtain such information as is reasonably necessary 
        regarding the income of a borrower (and the borrower's 
        spouse, if applicable) of a loan made under this part 
        that is, or may be, repaid pursuant to income 
        contingent repayment, for the purpose of determining 
        the annual repayment obligation of the borrower. 
        Returns and return information (as defined in section 
        6103 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986) may be 
        obtained under the preceding sentence only to the 
        extent authorized by section 6103(l)(13) of such Code. 
        The Secretary shall establish procedures for 
        determining the borrower's repayment obligation on that 
        loan for such year, and such other procedures as are 
        necessary to implement effectively income contingent 
        repayment.
          (2) Repayment based on adjusted gross income.--A 
        repayment schedule for a loan made under this part and 
        repaid pursuant to income contingent repayment shall be 
        based on the adjusted gross income (as defined in 
        section 62 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986) of the 
        borrower or, if the borrower is married and files a 
        Federal income tax return jointly with the borrower's 
        spouse, on the adjusted gross income of the borrower 
        and the borrower's spouse.
          (3) Additional documents.--A borrower who chooses, or 
        is required, to repay a loan made under this part 
        pursuant to income contingent repayment, and for whom 
        adjusted gross income is unavailable or does not 
        reasonably reflect the borrower's current income, shall 
        provide to the Secretary other documentation of income 
        satisfactory to the Secretary, which documentation the 
        Secretary may use to determine an appropriate repayment 
        schedule.
          (4) Repayment schedules.--Income contingent repayment 
        schedules shall be established by regulations 
        promulgated by the Secretary and shall require payments 
        that vary in relation to the appropriate portion of the 
        annual income of the borrower (and the borrower's 
        spouse, if applicable) as determined by the Secretary.
          (5) Calculation of balance due.--The balance due on a 
        loan made under this part that is repaid pursuant to 
        income contingent repayment shall equal the unpaid 
        principal amount of the loan, any accrued interest, and 
        any fees, such as late charges, assessed on such loan. 
        The Secretary may promulgate regulations limiting the 
        amount of interest that may be capitalized on such 
        loan, and the timing of any such capitalization.
          (6) Notification to borrowers.--The Secretary shall 
        establish procedures under which a borrower of a loan 
        made under this part who chooses or is required to 
        repay such loan pursuant to income contingent repayment 
        is notified of the terms and conditions of such plan, 
        considers that special circumstances, such as a loss of 
        employment by the borrower or the borrower's spouse, 
        warrant an adjustment in the borrower's loan repayment, 
        the borrower may contact the Secretary, who shall 
        determine whether such adjustment is appropriate, in 
        accordance with criteria established by the Secretary.
          (7) Maximum repayment period.--In calculating the 
        extended period of time for which an income contingent 
        repayment plan under this subsection may be in effect 
        for a borrower, the Secretary shall include all time 
        periods during which a borrower of loans under part B, 
        part D, or part E--
                  (A) is not in default on any loan that is 
                included in the income contingent repayment 
                plan; and
                  (B)(i) is in deferment due to an economic 
                hardship described in section 435(o);
                  (ii) makes monthly payments under paragraph 
                (1) or (6) of section 493C(b);
                  (iii) makes monthly payments of not less than 
                the monthly amount calculated under section 
                428(b)(9)(A)(i) or subsection (d)(1)(A), based 
                on a 10-year repayment period, when the 
                borrower first made the election described in 
                section 493C(b)(1);
                  (iv) makes payments of not less than the 
                payments required under a standard repayment 
                plan under section 428(b)(9)(A)(i) or 
                subsection (d)(1)(A) with a repayment period of 
                10 years; or
                  (v) makes payments under an income contingent 
                repayment plan under subsection (d)(1)(D).
          (8) Automatic recertification.--
                  (A) In general.--The Secretary shall 
                establish and implement, with respect to any 
                borrower described in subparagraph (B), 
                procedures to--
                          (i) use return information disclosed 
                        under section 6103(l)(13) of the 
                        Internal Revenue Code of 1986, pursuant 
                        to approval provided under section 494, 
                        to determine the repayment obligation 
                        of the borrower without further action 
                        by the borrower;
                          (ii) allow the borrower (or the 
                        spouse of the borrower), at any time, 
                        to opt out of disclosure under such 
                        section 6103(l)(13) and instead provide 
                        such information as the Secretary may 
                        require to determine the repayment 
                        obligation of the borrower (or withdraw 
                        from the repayment plan under this 
                        subsection); and
                          (iii) provide the borrower with an 
                        opportunity to update the return 
                        information so disclosed before the 
                        determination of the repayment 
                        obligation of the borrower.
                  (B) Applicability.--Subparagraph (A) shall 
                apply to each borrower of a loan made under 
                this part who, on or after the date on which 
                the Secretary establishes procedures under such 
                subparagraph--
                          (i) selects, or is required to repay 
                        such loan pursuant to, an income-
                        contingent repayment plan; or
                          (ii) recertifies income or family 
                        size under such plan.
  (f) Deferment; Forbearance.--
          (1) Effect on principal and interest.--A borrower of 
        a loan made under this part who meets the requirements 
        described in paragraph (2) shall be eligible for a 
        deferment, during which periodic installments of 
        principal need not be paid, and interest--
                  (A) shall not accrue, in the case of a--
                          (i) Federal Direct Stafford Loan; or
                          (ii) a Federal Direct Consolidation 
                        Loan that consolidated only Federal 
                        Direct Stafford Loans, or a combination 
                        of such loans and Federal Stafford 
                        Loans for which the student borrower 
                        received an interest subsidy under 
                        section 428; or
                  (B) shall accrue and be capitalized or paid 
                by the borrower, in the case of a Federal 
                Direct PLUS Loan, a Federal Direct Unsubsidized 
                Stafford Loan, or a Federal Direct 
                Consolidation Loan not described in 
                subparagraph (A)(ii).
          (2) Eligibility.--A borrower of a loan made under 
        this part shall be eligible for a deferment during any 
        period--
                  (A) during which the borrower--
                          (i) is carrying at least one-half the 
                        normal full-time work load for the 
                        course of study that the borrower is 
                        pursuing, as determined by the eligible 
                        institution (as such term is defined in 
                        section 435(a)) the borrower is 
                        attending; or
                          (ii) is pursuing a course of study 
                        pursuant to a graduate fellowship 
                        program approved by the Secretary, or 
                        pursuant to a rehabilitation training 
                        program for individuals with 
                        disabilities approved by the Secretary,
                except that no borrower shall be eligible for a 
                deferment under this subparagraph, or a loan 
                made under this part (other than a Federal 
                Direct PLUS Loan or a Federal Direct 
                Consolidation Loan), while serving in a medical 
                internship or residency program;
                  (B) subject to paragraph (7), not in excess 
                of 3 years during which the borrower is seeking 
                and unable to find full-time employment;
                  (C) during which the borrower--
                          (i) is serving on active duty during 
                        a war or other military operation or 
                        national emergency; or
                          (ii) is performing qualifying 
                        National Guard duty during a war or 
                        other military operation or national 
                        emergency,
                and for the 180-day period following the 
                demobilization date for the service described 
                in clause (i) or (ii); or
                  (D) subject to paragraph (7), not in excess 
                of 3 years during which the Secretary 
                determines, in accordance with regulations 
                prescribed under section 435(o), that the 
                borrower has experienced or will experience an 
                economic hardship.
          (3) Deferment for borrowers receiving cancer 
        treatment.--
                  (A) Effect on principal and interest.--A 
                borrower of a loan made under this part who 
                meets the requirements of subparagraph (B) 
                shall be eligible for a deferment, during which 
                periodic installments of principal need not be 
                paid, and interest shall not accrue.
                  (B) Eligibility.--A borrower of a loan made 
                under this part shall be eligible for a 
                deferment during--
                          (i) any period in which such borrower 
                        is receiving treatment for cancer; and
                          (ii) the 6 months after such period.
                  (C) Applicability.--This paragraph shall 
                apply with respect to loans--
                          (i) made on or after the date of the 
                        enactment of this paragraph; or
                          (ii) in repayment on the date of the 
                        enactment of this paragraph.
          (4) Deferment for dislocated military spouses.--
                  (A) Duration and effect on principal and 
                interest.--A borrower of a loan made under this 
                part who meets the requirements of subparagraph 
                (B) shall be eligible for a deferment for an 
                aggregate period of 180 days, during which 
                periodic installments of principal need not be 
                paid, and interest--
                          (i) shall not accrue, in the case of 
                        a--
                                  (I) Federal Direct Stafford 
                                Loan; or
                                  (II) a Federal Direct 
                                Consolidation Loan that 
                                consolidated only Federal 
                                Direct Stafford Loans, or a 
                                combination of such loans and 
                                Federal Stafford Loans for 
                                which the student borrower 
                                received an interest subsidy 
                                under section 428; or
                          (ii) shall accrue and be capitalized 
                        or paid by the borrower, in the case of 
                        a Federal Direct PLUS Loan, a Federal 
                        Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan, or a 
                        Federal Direct Consolidation Loan not 
                        described in clause (i)(II).
                  (B) Eligibility.--A borrower of a loan made 
                under this part shall be eligible for a 
                deferment under subparagraph (A) if the 
                borrower--
                          (i) is the spouse of a member of the 
                        Armed Forces serving on active duty; 
                        and
                          (ii) has experienced a loss of 
                        employment as a result of relocation to 
                        accommodate a permanent change in duty 
                        station of such member.
                  (C) Documentation and approval.--
                          (i) In general.--A borrower may 
                        establish eligibility for a deferment 
                        under subparagraph (A) by providing to 
                        the Secretary--
                                  (I) the documentation 
                                described in clause (ii); or
                                  (II) such other documentation 
                                as the Secretary determines 
                                appropriate.
                          (ii) Documentation.--The 
                        documentation described in this clause 
                        is--
                                  (I) evidence that the 
                                borrower is the spouse of a 
                                member of the Armed Forces 
                                serving on active duty;
                                  (II) evidence that a military 
                                permanent change of station 
                                order was issued to such 
                                member; and
                                  (III)(aa) evidence that the 
                                borrower is eligible for 
                                unemployment benefits due to a 
                                loss of employment resulting 
                                from relocation to accommodate 
                                such permanent change in duty 
                                station; or
                                  (bb) a written certification, 
                                or an equivalent as approved by 
                                the Secretary, that the 
                                borrower is registered with a 
                                public or private employment 
                                agency due to a loss of 
                                employment resulting from 
                                relocation to accommodate such 
                                permanent change in duty 
                                station.
          (5) Definition of borrower.--For the purpose of this 
        subsection, the term ``borrower'' means an individual 
        who is a new borrower on the date such individual 
        applies for a loan under this part for which the first 
        disbursement is made on or after July 1, 1993.
          (6) Deferments for previous part b loan borrowers.--A 
        borrower of a loan made under this part, who at the 
        time such individual applies for such loan, has an 
        outstanding balance of principal or interest owing on 
        any loan made, insured, or guaranteed under part B of 
        title IV prior to July 1, 1993, shall be eligible for a 
        deferment under section 427(a)(2)(C) or section 
        428(b)(1)(M) as such sections were in effect on July 
        22, 1992.
          (7) Sunset of unemployment and economic hardship 
        deferments.--A borrower who receives a loan made under 
        this part on or after July 1, 2027, shall not be 
        eligible to defer such loan under subparagraph (B) or 
        (D) of paragraph (2).
          (8) Forbearance on loans made under this part on or 
        after july 1, 2027.--A borrower who receives a loan 
        made under this part on or after July 1, 2027, may only 
        be eligible for a forbearance on such loan pursuant to 
        section 428(c)(3)(B) that does not exceed 9 months 
        during any 24-month period.
  (g) Federal Direct Consolidation Loans.--
          (1) In general.--A borrower of a loan made under this 
        part may consolidate such loan with the loans described 
        in section 428C(a)(4), including any loan made under 
        part B and first disbursed before July 1, 2010. To be 
        eligible for a consolidation loan under this part, a 
        borrower shall meet the eligibility criteria set forth 
        in section 428C(a)(3).
          (2) Separating joint consolidation loans.--
                  (A) In general.--
                          (i) Authorization.--A married couple, 
                        or 2 individuals who were previously a 
                        married couple, and who received a 
                        joint consolidation loan as such 
                        married couple under subparagraph (C) 
                        of section 428C(a)(3) (as such 
                        subparagraph was in effect on June 30, 
                        2006), may apply to the Secretary, in 
                        accordance with subparagraph (C) of 
                        this paragraph, for each individual 
                        borrower in the married couple (or 
                        previously married couple) to receive a 
                        separate Federal Direct Consolidation 
                        Loan under this part.
                          (ii) Eligibility for borrowers in 
                        default.--Notwithstanding any other 
                        provision of this Act, a married 
                        couple, or 2 individuals who were 
                        previously a married couple, who are in 
                        default on a joint consolidation loan 
                        may be eligible to receive a separate 
                        Federal Direct Consolidation Loan under 
                        this part in accordance with this 
                        paragraph.
                  (B) Secretarial requirements.--
                Notwithstanding section 428C(a)(3)(A) or any 
                other provision of law, for each individual 
                borrower who applies under subparagraph (A), 
                the Secretary shall--
                          (i) make a separate Federal Direct 
                        Consolidation Loan under this part 
                        that--
                                  (I) shall be for an amount 
                                equal to the product of--
                                          (aa) the unpaid 
                                        principal and accrued 
                                        unpaid interest of the 
                                        joint consolidation 
                                        loan (as of the date 
                                        that is the day before 
                                        such separate 
                                        consolidation loan is 
                                        made) and any 
                                        outstanding charges and 
                                        fees with respect to 
                                        such loan; and
                                          (bb) the percentage 
                                        of the joint 
                                        consolidation loan 
                                        attributable to the 
                                        loans of the individual 
                                        borrower for whom such 
                                        separate consolidation 
                                        loan is being made, as 
                                        determined--
                                                  (AA) on the 
                                                basis of the 
                                                loan 
                                                obligations of 
                                                such borrower 
                                                with respect to 
                                                such joint 
                                                consolidation 
                                                loan (as of the 
                                                date such joint 
                                                consolidation 
                                                loan was made); 
                                                or
                                                  (BB) in the 
                                                case in which 
                                                both borrowers 
                                                request, on the 
                                                basis of 
                                                proportions 
                                                outlined in a 
                                                divorce decree, 
                                                court order, or 
                                                settlement 
                                                agreement; and
                                  (II) has the same rate of 
                                interest as the joint 
                                consolidation loan (as of the 
                                date that is the day before 
                                such separate consolidation 
                                loan is made); and
                          (ii) in a timely manner, notify each 
                        individual borrower that the joint 
                        consolidation loan had been repaid and 
                        of the terms and conditions of their 
                        new loans.
                  (C) Application for separate direct 
                consolidation loan.--
                          (i) Joint application.--Except as 
                        provided in clause (ii), to receive 
                        separate consolidation loans under this 
                        part, both individual borrowers in a 
                        married couple (or previously married 
                        couple) shall jointly apply under 
                        subparagraph (A).
                          (ii) Separate application.--An 
                        individual borrower in a married couple 
                        (or previously married couple) may 
                        apply for a separate consolidation loan 
                        under subparagraph (A) separately and 
                        without regard to whether or when the 
                        other individual borrower in the 
                        married couple (or previously married 
                        couple) applies under subparagraph (A), 
                        in a case in which--
                                  (I) the individual borrower 
                                certifies to the Secretary that 
                                such borrower--
                                          (aa) has experienced 
                                        an act of domestic 
                                        violence (as defined in 
                                        section 40002 of the 
                                        Violence Against Women 
                                        Act of 1994 (34 U.S.C. 
                                        12291) from the other 
                                        individual borrower;
                                          (bb) has experienced 
                                        economic abuse (as 
                                        defined in section 
                                        40002 of the Violence 
                                        Against Women Act of 
                                        1994 (34 U.S.C. 12291) 
                                        from the other 
                                        individual borrower; or
                                          (cc) is unable to 
                                        reasonably reach or 
                                        access the loan 
                                        information of the 
                                        other individual 
                                        borrower; or
                                  (II) the Secretary determines 
                                that authorizing each 
                                individual borrower to apply 
                                separately under subparagraph 
                                (A) would be in the best fiscal 
                                interests of the Federal 
                                Government.
                          (iii) Remaining obligation from 
                        separate application.--In the case of 
                        an individual borrower who receives a 
                        separate consolidation loan due to the 
                        circumstances described in clause (ii), 
                        the other non-applying individual 
                        borrower shall become solely liable for 
                        the remaining balance of the joint 
                        consolidation loan.
          (3) Consolidation loans made on or after july 1, 
        2026.--A Federal Direct Consolidation Loan offered to a 
        borrower under this part on or after July 1, 2026, may 
        only be repaid pursuant to a repayment plan described 
        in clause (i) or (ii) of subsection (d)(7)(A) of this 
        section, as applicable, and the repayment schedule of 
        such a Consolidation Loan shall be determined in 
        accordance with such repayment plan.
  (h) Borrower Defenses.--Notwithstanding any other provision 
of State or Federal law, the Secretary shall specify in 
regulations which acts or omissions of an institution of higher 
education a borrower may assert as a defense to repayment of a 
loan made under this part, except that in no event may a 
borrower recover from the Secretary, in any action arising from 
or relating to a loan made under this part, an amount in excess 
of the amount such borrower has repaid on such loan.
  (i) Loan Application and Promissory Note.--The common 
financial reporting form required in section 483(a)(1) shall 
constitute the application for loans made under this part 
(other than a Federal Direct PLUS loan). The Secretary shall 
develop, print, and distribute to participating institutions a 
standard promissory note and loan disclosure form.
  (j) Loan Disbursement.--
          (1) In general.--Proceeds of loans to students under 
        this part shall be applied to the student's account for 
        tuition and fees, and, in the case of institutionally 
        owned housing, to room and board. Loan proceeds that 
        remain after the application of the previous sentence 
        shall be delivered to the borrower by check or other 
        means that is payable to and requires the endorsement 
        or other certification by such borrower.
          (2) Payment periods.--The Secretary shall establish 
        periods for the payments described in paragraph (1) in 
        a manner consistent with payment of Federal Pell Grants 
        under subpart 1 of part A of this title.
  (k) Fiscal Control and Fund Accountability.--
          (1) In general.--(A) An institution shall maintain 
        financial records in a manner consistent with records 
        maintained for other programs under this title.
          (B) Except as otherwise required by regulations of 
        the Secretary an institution may maintain loan funds 
        under this part in the same account as other Federal 
        student financial assistance.
          (2) Payments and refunds.--Payments and refunds shall 
        be reconciled in a manner consistent with the manner 
        set forth for the submission of a payment summary 
        report required of institutions participating in the 
        program under subpart 1 of part A, except that nothing 
        in this paragraph shall prevent such reconciliations on 
        a monthly basis.
          (3) Transaction histories.--All transaction histories 
        under this part shall be maintained using the same 
        system designated by the Secretary for the provision of 
        Federal Pell Grants under subpart 1 of part A of this 
        title.
  (l) Armed Forces and NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps Student 
Loan Interest Payment Programs.--
          (1) Authority.--Using funds received by transfer to 
        the Secretary under section 2174 of title 10, United 
        States Code, or section 268 of the National Oceanic and 
        Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Officer Corps 
        Act of 2002 for the payment of interest on a loan made 
        under this part to a member of the Armed Forces or an 
        officer in the commissioned officer corps of the 
        National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 
        respectively, the Secretary shall pay the interest on 
        the loan as due for a period not in excess of 36 
        consecutive months. The Secretary may not pay interest 
        on such a loan out of any funds other than funds that 
        have been so transferred.
          (2) Forbearance.--During the period in which the 
        Secretary is making payments on a loan under paragraph 
        (1), the Secretary shall grant the borrower 
        forbearance, in the form of a temporary cessation of 
        all payments on the loan other than the payments of 
        interest on the loan that are made under that 
        paragraph.
  (m) Repayment Plan for Public Service Employees.--
          (1) In general.--The Secretary shall cancel the 
        balance of interest and principal due, in accordance 
        with paragraph (2), on any eligible Federal Direct Loan 
        not in default for a borrower who--
                  (A) has made 120 monthly payments on the 
                eligible Federal Direct Loan after October 1, 
                2007, pursuant to any one or a combination of 
                the following--
                          (i) payments under an income-based 
                        repayment plan under section 493C;
                          (ii) payments under a standard 
                        repayment plan under subsection 
                        (d)(1)(A), based on a 10-year repayment 
                        period;
                          (iii) monthly payments under a 
                        repayment plan under subsection (d)(1) 
                        or (g) of not less than the monthly 
                        amount calculated under subsection 
                        (d)(1)(A), based on a 10-year repayment 
                        period;
                          (iv) payments under an income 
                        contingent repayment plan under 
                        subsection (d)(1)(D) (as in effect on 
                        the day before the date of the repeal 
                        of subsection (e) of this section); or
                          (v) on-time payments under the 
                        Repayment Assistance Plan under 
                        subsection (q); and
                  (B)(i) is employed in a public service job at 
                the time of such forgiveness; and
                  (ii) has been employed in a public service 
                job during the period in which the borrower 
                makes each of the 120 payments described in 
                subparagraph (A).
          (2) Loan cancellation amount.--After the conclusion 
        of the employment period described in paragraph (1), 
        the Secretary shall cancel the obligation to repay the 
        balance of principal and interest due as of the time of 
        such cancellation, on the eligible Federal Direct Loans 
        made to the borrower under this part.
          (3) Definitions.--In this subsection:
                  (A) Eligible federal direct loan.--The term 
                ``eligible Federal Direct Loan'' means a 
                Federal Direct Stafford Loan, Federal Direct 
                PLUS Loan, or Federal Direct Unsubsidized 
                Stafford Loan, or a Federal Direct 
                Consolidation Loan.
                  (B) Public service job.--The term ``public 
                service job'' means--
                          (i) a full-time job in emergency 
                        management, government (excluding time 
                        served as a member of Congress), 
                        military service, public safety, law 
                        enforcement, public health (including 
                        nurses, nurse practitioners, nurses in 
                        a clinical setting, and full-time 
                        professionals engaged in health care 
                        practitioner occupations and health 
                        care support occupations, as such terms 
                        are defined by the Bureau of Labor 
                        Statistics), public education, social 
                        work in a public child or family 
                        service agency, public interest law 
                        services (including prosecution or 
                        public defense or legal advocacy on 
                        behalf of low-income communities at a 
                        nonprofit organization), early 
                        childhood education (including licensed 
                        or regulated childcare, Head Start, and 
                        State funded prekindergarten), public 
                        service for individuals with 
                        disabilities, public service for the 
                        elderly, public library sciences, 
                        school-based library sciences and other 
                        school-based services, or at an 
                        organization that is described in 
                        section 501(c)(3) of the Internal 
                        Revenue Code of 1986 and exempt from 
                        taxation under section 501(a) of such 
                        Code; or
                          (ii) teaching as a full-time faculty 
                        member at a Tribal College or 
                        University as defined in section 316(b) 
                        and other faculty teaching in high-
                        needs subject areas or areas of 
                        shortage (including nurse faculty, 
                        foreign language faculty, and part-time 
                        faculty at community colleges), as 
                        determined by the Secretary.
          (4) Ineligibility for double benefits.--No borrower 
        may, for the same service, receive a reduction of loan 
        obligations under both this subsection and section 
        428J, 428K, 428L, or 460.
  (n) Identity Fraud Protection.--The Secretary shall take such 
steps as may be necessary to ensure that monthly Federal Direct 
Loan statements and other publications of the Department do not 
contain more than four digits of the Social Security number of 
any individual.
  (o) No Accrual of Interest for Active Duty Service Members.--
          (1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other provision 
        of this part and in accordance with paragraphs (2) and 
        (4), interest shall not accrue for an eligible military 
        borrower on a loan made under this part for which the 
        first disbursement is made on or after October 1, 2008.
          (2) Consolidation loans.--In the case of any 
        consolidation loan made under this part that is 
        disbursed on or after October 1, 2008, interest shall 
        not accrue pursuant to this subsection only on such 
        portion of such loan as was used to repay a loan made 
        under this part for which the first disbursement is 
        made on or after October 1, 2008.
          (3) Eligible military borrower.--In this subsection, 
        the term ``eligible military borrower'' means an 
        individual who--
                  (A)(i) is serving on active duty during a war 
                or other military operation or national 
                emergency; or
                  (ii) is performing qualifying National Guard 
                duty during a war or other military operation 
                or national emergency; and
                  (B) is serving in an area of hostilities in 
                which service qualifies for special pay under 
                section 310, or paragraph (1) or (3) of section 
                351(a), of title 37, United States Code.
          (4) Limitation.--An individual who qualifies as an 
        eligible military borrower under this subsection may 
        receive the benefit of this subsection for not more 
        than 60 months.
  (p) Disclosures.--Each institution of higher education with 
which the Secretary has an agreement under section 453, and 
each contractor with which the Secretary has a contract under 
section 456, shall, with respect to loans under this part and 
in accordance with such regulations as the Secretary shall 
prescribe, comply with each of the requirements under section 
433 that apply to a lender with respect to a loan under part B.
  (q) Repayment Assistance Plan.--
          (1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other provision 
        of this Act, beginning on July 1, 2026, the Secretary 
        shall carry out an income-based repayment plan (to be 
        known as the ``Repayment Assistance Plan''), that shall 
        have the following terms and conditions:
                  (A) The total monthly repayment amount owed 
                by a borrower for all of the loans of the 
                borrower that are repaid pursuant to the 
                Repayment Assistance Plan shall be equal to the 
                applicable monthly payment of a borrower 
                calculated under paragraph (4)(B), except that 
                the borrower may not be precluded from repaying 
                an amount that exceeds such amount for any 
                month.
                  (B) The Secretary shall apply the borrower's 
                applicable monthly payment under this paragraph 
                first toward interest due on each such loan, 
                next toward any fees due on each loan, and then 
                toward the principal of each loan.
                  (C) Any principal due and not paid under 
                subparagraph (B) or paragraph (2)(B) shall be 
                deferred.
                  (D) A borrower who is not in a period of 
                deferment or forbearance shall make an 
                applicable monthly payment for each month until 
                the earlier of--
                          (i) the date on which the outstanding 
                        balance of principal and interest due 
                        on all of the loans of the borrower 
                        that are repaid pursuant to the 
                        Repayment Assistance Plan is $0; or
                          (ii) the date on which the borrower 
                        has made 360 qualifying monthly 
                        payments.
                  (E) The Secretary shall cancel any 
                outstanding balance of principal and interest 
                due on a loan made under this part to a 
                borrower--
                          (i) who, for any period of time, 
                        participated in the Repayment 
                        Assistance Plan under this subsection;
                          (ii) whose most recent payment for 
                        such loan prior to the loan 
                        cancellation under this subparagraph 
                        was made under such Repayment 
                        Assistance Plan; and
                          (iii) who has made 360 qualifying 
                        monthly payments on such loan.
                  (F) For the purposes of this subsection, the 
                term ``qualifying monthly payment'' means any 
                of the following:
                          (i) An on-time applicable monthly 
                        payment under this subsection.
                          (ii) An on-time monthly payment under 
                        the standard repayment plan under 
                        subsection (d)(7)(A)(i) of not less 
                        than the monthly payment required under 
                        such plan.
                          (iii) A monthly payment under any 
                        repayment plan (excluding the Repayment 
                        Assistance Plan under this subsection) 
                        of not less than the monthly payment 
                        that would be required under a standard 
                        repayment plan under section 
                        455(d)(1)(A) with a repayment period of 
                        10 years.
                          (iv) A monthly payment under section 
                        493C of not less than the monthly 
                        payment required under such section, 
                        including a monthly payment equal to 
                        the minimum payment amount permitted 
                        under such section.
                          (v) A monthly payment made before 
                        July 1, 2028, under an income 
                        contingent repayment plan carried out 
                        under section 455(d)(1)(D) (or under an 
                        alternative repayment plan in lieu of 
                        repayment under such an income 
                        contingent repayment plan, if placed in 
                        such an alternative repayment plan by 
                        the Secretary) of not less than the 
                        monthly payment required under such a 
                        plan, including a monthly payment equal 
                        to the minimum payment amount permitted 
                        under such a plan.
                          (vi) A month when the borrower did 
                        not make a payment because the borrower 
                        was in deferment under subsection 
                        (f)(2)(B) or due to an economic 
                        hardship described in subsection 
                        (f)(2)(D).
                          (vii) A month that ended before the 
                        date of enactment of this subsection 
                        when the borrower did not make a 
                        payment because the borrower was in a 
                        period of deferment or forbearance 
                        described in section 685.209(k)(4)(iv) 
                        of title 34, Code of Federal 
                        Regulations (as in effect on the date 
                        of enactment of this subsection).
                  (G) The procedures established by the 
                Secretary under section 493C(c) shall apply for 
                annually determining the borrower's eligibility 
                for the Repayment Assistance Plan, including 
                verification of a borrower's annual income and 
                the annual amount due on the total amount of 
                loans eligible to be repaid under this 
                subsection, and such other procedures as are 
                necessary to effectively implement income-based 
                repayment under this subsection. With respect 
                to carrying out section 494(a)(2) for the 
                Repayment Assistance Plan, an individual may 
                elect to opt out of the disclosures required 
                under section 494(a)(2)(A)(ii) in accordance 
                with the procedures established under section 
                493C(c)(2).
          (2) Balance assistance for distressed borrowers.--
                  (A) Interest subsidy.--With respect to a 
                borrower of a loan made under this part, for 
                each month for which such a borrower makes an 
                on-time applicable monthly payment required 
                under paragraph (1)(A) and such monthly payment 
                is insufficient to pay the total amount of 
                interest that accrues for the month on all 
                loans of the borrower repaid pursuant to the 
                Repayment Assistance Plan under this 
                subsection, the amount of interest accrued and 
                not paid for the month shall not be charged to 
                the borrower.
                  (B) Matching principal payment.--With respect 
                to a borrower of a loan made under this part 
                and not in a period of deferment or 
                forbearance, for each month for which a 
                borrower makes an on-time applicable monthly 
                payment required under paragraph (1)(A) and 
                such monthly payment reduces the total 
                outstanding principal balance of all loans of 
                the borrower repaid pursuant to the Repayment 
                Assistance Plan under this subsection by less 
                than $50, the Secretary shall reduce such total 
                outstanding principal balance of the borrower 
                by an amount that is equal to--
                          (i) the amount that is the lesser 
                        of--
                                  (I) $50; or
                                  (II) the total amount paid by 
                                the borrower for such month 
                                pursuant to paragraph (1)(A); 
                                minus
                          (ii) the total amount paid by the 
                        borrower for such month pursuant to 
                        paragraph (1)(A) that is applied to 
                        such total outstanding principal 
                        balance.
          (3) Additional documents.--A borrower who chooses, or 
        is required, to repay a loan under this subsection, and 
        for whom adjusted gross income is unavailable or does 
        not reasonably reflect the borrower's current income, 
        shall provide to the Secretary other documentation of 
        income satisfactory to the Secretary, which 
        documentation the Secretary may use to determine 
        repayment under this subsection.
          (4) Definitions.--In this subsection:
                  (A) Adjusted gross income.--The term 
                ``adjusted gross income'', when used with 
                respect to a borrower, means the adjusted gross 
                income (as such term is defined in section 62 
                of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986) of the 
                borrower (and the borrower's spouse, as 
                applicable) for the most recent taxable year, 
                except that, in the case of a married borrower 
                who files a separate Federal income tax return, 
                the term does not include the adjusted gross 
                income of the borrower's spouse.
                  (B) Applicable monthly payment.--
                          (i) In general.--Except as provided 
                        in clause (ii), (iii), or (vi), the 
                        term ``applicable monthly payment'' 
                        means, when used with respect to a 
                        borrower, the amount equal to--
                                  (I) the applicable base 
                                payment of the borrower, 
                                divided by 12; minus
                                  (II) $50 for each dependent 
                                of the borrower (which, in the 
                                case of a married borrower 
                                filing a separate Federal 
                                income tax return, shall 
                                include only each dependent 
                                that the borrower claims on 
                                that return).
                          (ii) Minimum amount.--In the case of 
                        a borrower with an applicable monthly 
                        payment amount calculated under clause 
                        (i) that is less than $10, the 
                        applicable monthly payment of the 
                        borrower shall be $10.
                          (iii) Final payment.--In the case of 
                        a borrower whose total outstanding 
                        balance of principal and interest on 
                        all of the loans of the borrower that 
                        are repaid pursuant to the Repayment 
                        Assistance Plan is less than the 
                        applicable monthly payment calculated 
                        pursuant to clause (i) or (ii), as 
                        applicable, then the applicable monthly 
                        payment of the borrower shall be the 
                        total outstanding balance of principal 
                        and interest on all such loans.
                          (iv) Base payment.--The amount of the 
                        applicable base payment for a borrower 
                        with an adjusted gross income of--
                                  (I) not more than $10,000, is 
                                $120;
                                  (II) more than $10,000 and 
                                not more than $20,000, is 1 
                                percent of such adjusted gross 
                                income;
                                  (III) more than $20,000 and 
                                not more than $30,000, is 2 
                                percent of such adjusted gross 
                                income;
                                  (IV) more than $30,000 and 
                                not more than $40,000, is 3 
                                percent of such adjusted gross 
                                income;
                                  (V) more than $40,000 and not 
                                more than $50,000, is 4 percent 
                                of such adjusted gross income;
                                  (VI) more than $50,000 and 
                                not more than $60,000, is 5 
                                percent of such adjusted gross 
                                income;
                                  (VII) more than $60,000 and 
                                not more than $70,000, is 6 
                                percent of such adjusted gross 
                                income;
                                  (VIII) more than $70,000 and 
                                not more than $80,000, is 7 
                                percent of such adjusted gross 
                                income;
                                  (IX) more than $80,000 and 
                                not more than $90,000, is 8 
                                percent of such adjusted gross 
                                income;
                                  (X) more than $90,000 and not 
                                more than $100,000, is 9 
                                percent of such adjusted gross 
                                income; and
                                  (XI) more than $100,000, is 
                                10 percent of such adjusted 
                                gross income.
                          (v) Dependent.--For the purposes of 
                        this paragraph, the term ``dependent'' 
                        means an individual who is a dependent 
                        under section 152 of the Internal 
                        Revenue Code of 1986.
                          (vi) Special rule.--In the case of a 
                        borrower who is required by the 
                        Secretary to provide information to the 
                        Secretary to determine the applicable 
                        monthly payment of the borrower under 
                        this subparagraph, and who does not 
                        comply with such requirement, the 
                        applicable monthly payment of the 
                        borrower shall be--
                                  (I) the sum of the monthly 
                                payment amounts the borrower 
                                would have paid for each of the 
                                borrower's loans made under 
                                this part under a standard 
                                repayment plan with a fixed 
                                monthly repayment amount, paid 
                                over a period of 10 years, 
                                based on the outstanding 
                                principal due on such loan when 
                                such loan entered repayment; 
                                and
                                  (II) determined pursuant to 
                                this clause until the date on 
                                which the borrower provides 
                                such information to the 
                                Secretary.

           *       *       *       *       *       *       *

               Changes in the Application of Existing Law

    Pursuant to clause 3(f)(1)(A) of rule XIII of the Rules of 
the House of Representatives, the following statements are 
submitted describing the effect of provisions in the 
accompanying bill that directly or indirectly change the 
application of existing law.
    The bill includes a number of provisions which place 
limitations on the use of funds in the bill or change existing 
limitations and that might, under some circumstances, be 
construed as changing the application of existing law:

                      TITLE I--DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

    Language is included under ``Employment and Training 
Administration'' providing that allotments to outlying areas 
are not required to be made through the Pacific Region 
Educational Laboratory as provided by section 127 of the 
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
    Language is included under ``Employment and Training 
Administration'' providing that outlying areas may submit a 
single application for consolidated grant awards and may use 
the funds for any of the programs and activities authorized 
under subtitle B of title I of WIOA.
    Language is included under ``Employment and Training 
Administration'' providing amounts made available for 
dislocated workers may be used for State activities or across 
multiple local areas where workers remain dislocated.
    Language is included under ``Employment and Training 
Administration'' providing that technical assistance and 
demonstration projects may provide assistance to new entrants 
in the workforce and incumbent workers.
    Language is included under ``Employment and Training 
Administration'' providing that the Secretary may reserve a 
higher percentage of funds for technical assistance than what 
is provided in section 168(b) of the WIOA.
    Language is included under ``State Unemployment Insurance 
and Employment Service Operations'' providing funds to States 
to improve operations and modernize State Unemployment 
Insurance systems.
    Language is included under ``State Unemployment Insurance 
and Employment Service Operations'' providing authority for 
States to use funds to assist other States to carry out 
authorized activities in cases of a major disaster declared by 
the President under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and 
Emergency Assistance Act.
    Language is included under ``State Unemployment Insurance 
and Employment Service Operations'' providing that the 
Department of Labor may make payments on behalf of States for 
the use of the National Directory of New Hires.
    Language is included under ``State Unemployment Insurance 
and Employment Service Operations'' providing that the 
Department of Labor may make payments from funds appropriated 
for States' grants on behalf of States to the entity operating 
the State Information Data Exchange System.
    Language is included under ``State Unemployment Insurance 
and Employment Service Operations'' providing that 
appropriations for establishing a national one-stop career 
system may be obligated in contracts, grants or agreements with 
States or non-State entities.
    Language is included under ``State Unemployment Insurance 
and Employment Service Operations'' providing that funds 
available for integrated Unemployment Insurance and Employment 
Service automation may be used by States notwithstanding cost 
allocation principles prescribed under the Office of Management 
and Budget ``Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost 
Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards.''
    Language is included under ``State Unemployment Insurance 
and Employment Service Operations'' providing that the 
Department of Labor may reallot funds among States 
participating in a consortium.
    Language is included under ``State Unemployment Insurance 
and Employment Service Operations'' allowing the Secretary to 
collect fees for the costs associated with additional data 
collection, analyses, and reporting services related to the 
National Agricultural Workers Survey.
    Language is included under ``Veterans' Employment and 
Training'' providing that funds may be used for support 
specialists providing intensive services to wounded service 
members, spouses or other family caregivers of the service 
member, and to Gold Star Spouses.
    Language is included under ``Veterans' Employment and 
Training'' providing that the Department may award grants under 
section 2023 of Title 38, United States Code.
    Language is included under ``Veterans' Employment and 
Training'' providing that services may be provided to certain 
homeless or recently incarcerated veterans under section 2021, 
2021A, and 2023 of Title 38, United States Code.
    Language is included under ``Veterans' Employment and 
Training'' providing that the fees assessed pursuant to the 
HIRE Vets Medallion Award Fund shall be available to the 
Secretary for expenses of the HIRE Vets Medallion Award Program 
and that the start date prescribed in the Act shall not apply.
    Language is included under ``Special Benefits'' providing 
that the Department of Labor may use authority to reimburse an 
employer who is not the employer at the time of injury for 
portions of the salary of a re-employed, disabled beneficiary.
    Language is included under ``Special Benefits'' providing 
that funds shall be transferred to the appropriation from 
entities required under 5 U.S.C. 8147(c) as determined by the 
Department of Labor.
    Language is included under ``Special Benefits'' providing 
that of funds transferred from entities under 5 U.S.C 8147(c), 
specified amounts may be used by the Department of Labor for 
maintenance and data and communications systems, workload 
processing, roll disability management and medical review, and 
program integrity with remaining amounts paid into the 
Treasury.
    Language is included under ``Special Benefits'' providing 
that the Secretary may prescribe regulations requiring 
identification for the filing of benefit claims.
    Language is included under ``Administrative Expenses, 
Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Fund'' 
providing that the Secretary may prescribe regulations for 
requiring identification for the filing of benefit claims.
    Language is included under ``Occupational Safety and Health 
Administration'' providing that up to a certain amount of fees 
collected from the training institute may be retained and used 
for related training and education.
    Language is included under ``Occupational Safety and Health 
Administration'' providing that fees collected from Nationally 
Recognized Testing Laboratories may be used to administer 
laboratory recognition programs that ensure safety of equipment 
used in the workplace.
    Language is included under ``Mine Safety and Health 
Administration'' providing that a specific amount may be 
collected by the National Mine Health and Safety Academy and 
made available for mine safety and health education and 
training.
    Language is included under ``Mine Safety and Health 
Administration'' providing that a specific amount may be 
collected from the approval and certification of equipment and 
materials and made available for other such activities.
    Language is included under ``Mine Safety and Health 
Administration'' providing that the Department of Labor may 
accept lands, buildings, equipment, and other contributions 
from public and private sources for cooperative projects.
    Language is included under ``Mine Safety and Health 
Administration'' providing that the Department of Labor may 
promote health and safety education and training through 
cooperative agreements with States, industry, and safety 
associations.
    Language is included under ``Mine Safety and Health 
Administration'' providing that the Department of Labor may 
recognize the Joseph A. Holmes Safety Association as the 
principal safety association and may provide funds or personnel 
as officers in local chapters or the national organization.
    Language is included under ``General Provisions'' 
prohibiting the use of any funds appropriated for grants under 
section 414(c) of the American Competitiveness and Workforce 
Improvement Act of 1998, for purposes other than competitive 
grants for training individuals over the age of 16 who are not 
currently enrolled in school in the occupations and industries 
for which employers are using H-1B visa to hire foreign 
workers.
    Language is included under ``General Provisions'' allowing 
the Secretary to furnish a certain amount of excess personal 
property to apprenticeship programs through grants, contracts, 
and other arrangements.
    Language is included under ``General Provisions'' providing 
that the Secretary may dispose or divest of certain Job Corps 
center property and use the proceeds to carry out the program 
in the same geographic location.
    Language is included under ``General Provisions'' 
establishing the effective Adverse Effect Wage rate for the 
fiscal year.
    Language is included under ``General Provisions'' to 
prohibit funding for the proposed ``Heat Injury and Illness 
Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings'' rule.

           TITLE II--DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

    Language is included under ``Health Resources and Services 
Administration--Health Workforce'' overriding the proportional 
funding requirements in the Public Health Service Act for 
sections 751 and 756.
    Language is included under ``Health Resources and Services 
Administration--Health Workforce'' providing permissive 
authority to the Secretary to waive requirements for entities 
awarded funds from sections 751(d)(2)(A) and 751 (d)(2)(B).
    Language is included under ``Health Resources and Services 
Administration--Health Workforce'' providing that fees 
collected for the disclosure of information under the 
information reporting requirement program authorized by section 
1921 of the Social Security Act shall be sufficient to recover 
the full costs of the operation program and shall remain 
available until expended to carry out that Act.
    Language is included under ``Health Resources and Services 
Administration--Health Workforce'' allowing funds for the Nurse 
Corps and National Health Service Corps Scholarship and Loan 
programs to be used to make prior year adjustments.
    Language is included under ``Health Resources and Services 
Administration--Health Workforce'' providing funding under the 
National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program for 
substance use disorder counselors and placement in Indian 
Health Service facilities.
    Language is included under ``Health Resources and Services 
Administration--Health Workforce'' to provide funds for the 
purpose of establishing or expanding optional community-based 
nurse practitioner fellowship programs.
    Language is included under ``Health Resources and Services 
Administration--Health Workforce'' to provide funds for grants 
to public institutions of higher education meeting certain 
requirements for graduate education for physicians.
    Language is included under ``Health Resources and Services 
Administration--Rural Health'' to provide funding for State 
Offices of Rural Health notwithstanding section 338J(k), which 
terminates the program after an aggregate funding amount.
    Language is included under ``Centers for Disease Control 
and Prevention--Buildings and Facilities'' providing the use of 
funds to support acquisition, renovation, or replacement, of 
the National Institute Occupational Safety and Health's 
underground and surface coal mining research capacity.
    Language is included under ``Centers for Disease Control 
and Prevention--CDC-Wide'' related to the implementation of the 
Epidemiology-Laboratory Capacity Grant program.
    Language is included under ``Substance Abuse and Mental 
Health Services Administration--Mental Health'' related to data 
infrastructure development.
    Language is included under ``Substance Abuse and Mental 
Health Services Administration--Mental Health'' requiring that 
5 percent of the Mental Health Block Grant funding be available 
to support evidence-based crisis systems.
    Language is included under ``Substance Abuse and Mental 
Health Services Administration--Mental Health'' allowing up to 
10 percent of the amounts made available to carry out the 
Children's Mental Health Services program may be used to carry 
out demonstration grants or contracts for early interventions 
for people 25 years and younger at high risk of developing a 
first episode of psychosis.
    Language is included under ``Substance Abuse and Mental 
Health Services Administration--Mental Health'' exempting the 
Mental Health Block Grant from the evaluation set-aside in 
section 241 of the Public Health Service Act.
    Language is included under ``Substance Abuse and Mental 
Health Services Administration--Substance Abuse Treatment'' 
requiring that 4.25 percent of State Opioid Response grant 
funding be made available for Indian Tribes or tribal 
organizations.
    Language is included under ``Administration for Children 
and Families--Low Income Home Energy Assistance'' modifying the 
formula distribution of funds.
    Language is included under ``Administration for Children 
and Families--Refugee and Entrant Assistance'' to exempt the 
matching requirements of certain funds as required in section 
235(c)(6)(C)(iii) of the William Wilberforce Trafficking 
Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008.
    Language is included under ``Administration for Children 
and Families--Payments to States for the Child Care and 
Development Block Grant'' reserving 5 percent of available 
funds for payments to Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations.
    Language is included under ``Administration for Children 
and Families--Payments to States for the Child Care and 
Development Block Grant'' to make amounts available for Federal 
administrative expenses.
    Language is included under ``Administration for Children 
and Families--Children and Families Services Programs'' related 
to the calculation of base grants, the Tribal Colleges and 
Universities Head Start Partnership program, and selection 
criteria for Head Start programs operated by Indian tribes.
    Language is included under ``Administration for Children 
and Families--Children and Families Services Programs'' related 
to the allocation of funding in the Family Violence Prevention 
and Services Act.
    Language is included under ``Administration for Community 
Living--Aging and Disability Services Programs'' to allow 
funding provided for adult protective services grants under 
section 2042 of title XX of the Social Security Act to be set-
aside for Tribes and Tribal organizations.
    Language is included making 2.5 percent of amounts 
appropriated for programs authorized under the PHS Act 
available for the purposes and in the amounts provided in this 
Act, or for the evaluation of such programs.
    Language is included modifying the timeframe when a NHSC 
contract may be terminated.
    Language is included requiring that providers of Title X 
services adhere to state laws requiring notification or the 
reporting of child abuse, child molestation, sexual abuse, 
rape, or incest.
    Language is included prohibiting the Secretary from denying 
participation in the Medicare Advantage program to entities who 
do not provide coverage or referrals for abortion services.
    Language is included permitting funding for HHS 
international HIV/AIDS and other infectious disease, chronic 
and environmental disease, and other health activities abroad 
to be spent under the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 
1956.
    Language is included granting authority to the Office of 
the Director of the NIH to enter directly into transactions in 
order to implement the NIH Common Fund for medical research and 
permitting the Director to utilize peer review procedures as 
the Director deems appropriate.
    Language is included providing the Biomedical Advanced 
Research and Development Authority ten-year contract authority.
    Language is included directing the Secretary to consider 
current recommendations of the United State Preventive Services 
Task Force with respect to breast cancer screening, 
mammography, and prevention as if such recommendations were a 
reference to such recommendations issued before 2009.
    Language is included limiting the availability of funds 
made available to the NIH for use for facilities and 
administration costs by certain specified institutions.
    Language is included allowing HHS to cover travel expenses 
when necessary for employees to obtain medical care when they 
are assigned to duty in a location in response to a public 
health emergency.
    Language is included permitting the Secretary to accept 
gifts to support Early Head Start programs under specified 
circumstances.
    Language is included related to the circumstances when the 
Secretary may accept donations related to the care of 
unaccompanied alien children.
    Language is included limiting the availability of funds to 
conduct or support biomedical research, testing, or 
experimentation on dogs or cats under specified circumstances.
    Language is included prohibiting funding to conduct or 
support research using human fetal tissue if such tissue is 
obtained pursuant to an induced abortion.
    Language is included prohibiting funding under specified 
circumstances available to a hospital or any other entity that 
administers any postgraduate physician training program, or any 
other program of training in the health professions, that 
provides training in the performance of, or assisting in the 
performance of, induced abortions, or in counseling or 
referrals for such abortions.
    Language is included prohibiting funding from being made 
available to Planned Parenthood Federation of America or its 
affiliates.
    Language is included prohibiting funding be used to 
establish, support, administer, oversee, or issue a grant, 
contract, or cooperative agreement for the purposes of 
providing information on, promoting access to, or facilitating 
an abortion.
    Language is included prohibiting funding from being used 
for social, psychological, behavioral, or medical intervention 
performed for the purposes of intentionally changing the body 
of an individual (including by disrupting the body's 
development, inhibiting its natural functions, or modifying its 
appearance) to no longer correspond to the individual's 
biological sex.
    Language is included limiting the placement of an 
unaccompanied alien child who has been convicted of a crime 
related to gang affiliation or activity.
    Language is included limiting the circumstances under which 
the Secretary of HHS may determine a public health emergency 
exists.
    Language is included allowing for civil actions for certain 
violations.
    Language is included limiting the placement of an 
unaccompanied alien child with an alien sponsor who has not 
been admitted.
    Language is included limiting certain research activities 
by CDC, NIH, and SAMHSA.
    Language is included limiting certain research activities 
on vertebrate animals.
    Language is included limiting certain activities by ICCPUD.

                   TITLE III--DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

    Language is included under ``Impact Aid'' allowing 
continued eligibility for students affected by the deployment 
or death of their military parent so long as the children 
attend school in the same local education agency they attended 
prior to the parent's death or deployment.
    Language is included under ``School Improvement Programs'' 
related to the funding limitation for administrative purposes.
    Language is included under ``School Improvement Programs'' 
related to the funding limitation for administrative purposes.
    Language is included under ``Innovation and Improvement'' 
related to the provision of awards under the Charter School 
Program.
    Language is included under ``Innovation and Improvement'' 
related to the provision of awards under the Per-Pupil 
Facilities Aid Program.
    Language is included under ``Innovation and Improvement'' 
related to the period of availability of funding awarded under 
such section.
    Language is included under ``Special Education'' regarding 
the factors to be considered by the Secretary when making 
formula awards to states.
    Language is included under ``Special Education'' outlining 
procedures for reducing a State award because of a failure to 
meet the maintenance of State financial support requirements of 
the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
    Language is included under ``Special Education'' permitting 
States to subgrant funds that they reserve for ``Other State-
Level Activities'' under the Grants to States, Preschool Grants 
to States, and Grants for Infants and Families programs.
    Language is included under ``Special Education'' to promote 
continuity of services for eligible infants and their families.
    Language is included under ``Rehabilitation Services'' 
expanding state allowed uses of funding for funding received 
under the Rehabilitation Act.
    Language is included under ``Higher Education'' allowing 
funds to carry out Title VI of the Higher Education Act to be 
used to support visits and study in foreign countries for 
participants in advanced foreign countries by individuals who 
are participating in advanced foreign language training and 
international studies in areas that are vital to United States 
national security and who plan to apply their language skills 
and knowledge of these countries in the fields of government, 
the professions, or international development.
    Language is included under ``Higher Education'' stating the 
section 313(d) of the Higher Education Act does not apply to an 
institution of higher education that is eligible to receive 
funding under section 318 of such Act.
    Language is included under ``Higher Education'' related to 
the provision of awards to institutions of higher education to 
assist the institutions in providing campus-based child care 
services.
    Language is included under ``Higher Education'' stating 
that the activities authorized under sections 317 and 320 of 
the Higher Education Act may include construction and 
maintenance in classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and other 
instructional facilities.
    Language is included under ``General Provisions'' allowing 
certain institutions to continue to use endowment income for 
student scholarships.
    Language is included under ``General Provisions'' regarding 
the National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and 
Integrity.
    Language is included under ``General Provisions'' regarding 
account maintenance fees.
    Language is included under ``General Provisions'' regarding 
the authority to make subsidized loans under section 455 of the 
Higher Education Act.
    Language is included under ``General Provisions'' regarding 
statutory funding made available under section 401 of the 
Higher Education Act.

                       TITLE IV--RELATED AGENCIES

    Language is included under ``The Committee for Purchase 
from People Who are Blind or Severely Disabled'' requiring that 
written agreements, with certain oversight provisions, be in 
place in order for authorized fees to be charged by certified 
nonprofit agencies.
    Language is included under ``Corporation for National and 
Community Service'' related to the provision of awards.
    Language is included under ``Corporation for National and 
Community Service'' allowing the requirements of section 
112(c)(1)(D) to be met through a determination of need by the 
local community.
    Language is included under ``Corporation for National and 
Community Service'' related to the grantee minimum share 
requirement.
    Language is included under ``Corporation for National and 
Community Service'' limiting the use of an educational award 
under section 148(a)(4) to individuals who are veterans.
    Language is included under ``Corporation for National and 
Community Service'' related to criminal background checks.
    Language is included under ``Corporation for National and 
Community Service'' related to education awards.
    Language is included under ``National Labor Relations 
Board'' related to electronic voting.
    Language is included under ``Railroad Retirement Board--
Limitation on Administration'' related to the hiring of 
attorneys.

                      TITLE V--GENERAL PROVISIONS

    Language is included related to the use of funds 
transferred pursuant to Section 4002 of Public Law 111-148.
    Language is included related to public posting requirements 
for programs, projects, or activities funded with Federal 
funds.
    Language is included limiting ability for trust funds 
receiving funding appropriated by this act to fund health 
benefits coverage that includes abortion.
    Language is included related to compensable medical 
treatments or benefits under Federal workers' compensation 
programs.
    Language is included prohibiting certain actions related to 
a sincerely held religious belief.
    Language is included related to the display of flags over 
Federal facilities.
    Language is included related to diversity, equity, and 
inclusion and critical race theory activities.
    Language is included to discriminatory activities.
    Language is included related to antisemitism.
    Language is included related to gain of function research 
in certain countries.
    Language is included related to COVID mask and vaccine 
mandates.
    Language is included related to the provision related to 
partnerships with entities operated or controlled by the 
Chinese Communist Party or the Government of the People's 
Republic of China.
    Language is included in which the People's Republic of 
China has any ownership stake.
                  Appropriations Not Authorized by Law

    Pursuant to clause 3(f)(1)(B) of rule XIII of the Rules of 
the House of Representatives, the following table lists the 
appropriations in the accompanying bill which are not 
authorized by law for the period concerned:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                           Appropriations in
         Agency Program              Last Year of        Authorization       Last Year of      Appropriations in
                                     Authorization           Level           Authorization         this Bill
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR ETA
    Dislocated Worker Employment  FY 2020...........  1,436,137,000.....  1,052,053,000.....  1,095,553,000
     and Training Activities.
    Native Americans............  FY 2020...........  54,137,000........  55,000,000........  65,000,000
    Apprenticeship Programs.....  N/A...............  N/A...............  N/A...............  290,000,000
    Job Corps...................  FY 2020...........  1,983,236,000.....  1,743,655,000.....  880,078,000
    One-Stop Career Centers/      N/A...............  N/A...............  N/A...............  42,893,000
     Labor Market Information.
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN
 SERVICES HRSA
    School-Based Health Centers.  FY 2026...........  Such Sums.........  55,000,000........  55,000,000
    Medical Student Education...  N/A...............  N/A...............  N/A...............  80,000,000
    Early Hearing Detection and   FY 2022...........  19,522,758........  17,818,000........  18,818,000
     Intervention.
    Heritable Disorders.........  FY 2019...........  11,900,000........  20,883,000........  24,883,000
    Pediatric Mental Health       FY 2022...........  9,000,000.........  10,000,000........  13,000,000
     Access.
    Screening and Treatment for   FY 2022...........  5,000,000.........  5,000,000.........  14,500,000
     Maternal Depression.
    Emergency Relief--Part A....  FY 2013...........  789,471,000.......  649,373,000.......  680,752,000
    Comprehensive Care--Part B..  FY 2013...........  1,562,169,000.....  1,314,446,000.....  1,364,878,000
    Organ Transplantation.......  FY 1993...........  Such Sums.........  2,767,000.........  59,049,000
    Rural Hospital Flexibility    FY 2012...........  Such Sums.........  41,040,000........  75,00,000
     Grants.
    Nursing Programs............  FY 2025...........  254,972,000.......  305,472,000.......  92,635,000
    Oral Health Training........  FY 2025...........  28,531,000........  42,050,000........  46,673,000
    Primary Care Training and     FY 2025...........  48,924,000........  49,924,000........  54,924,000
     Enhancement.
    Workforce Information and     FY 2025...........  5,663,000.........  5,663,000.........  5,663,000
     Analysis.
    Area Health Education         FY 2025...........  41,250,000........  47,000,000........  47,000,000
     Centers.
    Behavioral Health Workforce   FY 2025...........  5,000,000.........  153,000,000.......  159,053,000
     Education.
    Geriatrics..................  FY 2025...........  40,737,000........  48,245,000........  48,245,000
    Telehealth..................  FY 2025...........  29,000,000........  42,050,000........  45,550,000
    Rural Health Outreach.......  FY 2025...........  79,500,000........  100,975,000.......  120,000,000
CDC
    Sexually Transmitted          FY 1998...........  Such Sums.........  112,117,000.......  N/A
     Infections.
    National Center for Health    FY 2003...........  Such Sums.........  125,899,000.......  187,397,000
     Statistics.
    WISEWOMAN...................  FY 2003...........  Such Sums.........  12,419,000........  34,620,000
    National Cancer Registries..  FY 2003...........  Such Sums.........  N/A...............  53,440,000
    Asthma Surveillance & Grants  FY 2005...........  Such Sums.........  32,422,000........  34,500,000
    Injury Prevention and         FY 2005...........  Such Sums.........  138,237,000.......  705,829,000
     Control.
    Oral Health Promotion.......  FY 2005...........  Such Sums.........  11,204,000........  22,250,000
    Screening, Referrals, and     FY 2005...........  Such Sums.........  36,474,000........  51,000,000
     Education Regarding Lead
     Poisoning.
    Birth Defects, Developmental  FY 2007...........  Such Sums.........  122,242,000.......  199,460,000
     Disability, Disability and
     Health.
    Breast and Cervical Cancer..  FY 2012...........  275,000,000.......  204,779,000.......  238,500,000
    Public Health Workforce.....  FY 2013...........  39,500,000........  64,000,000........  71,000,000
    National Diabetes Prevention  FY 2014...........  Such Sums.........  10,000,000........  39,300,000
     Program.
    Johanna's Law...............  FY 2014...........  18,000,000........  4,972,000.........  13,000,000
    Section 317 Immunization....  FY 2014...........  Such Sums.........  610,847,000.......  696,933,000
    Young Women's Breast Health   FY 2019...........  4,900,000.........  4,960,000.........  6,960,000
     Awareness and Support of
     Young Women Diagnosed with
     Breast Cancer (PHSA 399NN).
    Preventive Health Measures    FY 2004...........  Such Sums.........  14,091,000........  17,205,000
     with regard to Prostate
     Cancer.
    Combating Antimicrobial       FY 2006...........  Such Sums.........  17,443,000........  207,000,000
     Resistance.
    Newborn Screening Quality     FY 2019...........  8,000,000.........  17,250,000........  21,000,000
     Assurance.
    Early Hearing Detection and   FY 2022...........  11,852,000........  10,760,000........  6,760,000
     Intervention.
    Breast Cancer Awareness for   FY 2019...........  9,000,000.........  6,960,000.........  6,960,000
     Young Women.
    Vector-Borne Diseases and     FY 2025...........  130,000,000.......  90,603,000........  93,603,000
     Lyme Disease.
NIH
    National Institutes of        FY 2020...........  36,472,442,775....  40,954,400,000....  48,816,000,000
     Health.
SAMHSA
    Protection and Advocacy for   FY 2003...........  Such Sums.........  36,146,000........  42,000,000
     Individuals with Mental
     Illness.
ACF
    Low Income Home Energy        FY 2007...........  5,100,000,000.....  2,161,170,000.....  4,055,000,000
     Assistance Program.
    Child Care and Development    FY 2020...........  2,748,591,018.....  5,826,000,000.....  8,841,387,000
     Block Grant.
    Children and Families         FY 2021...........  43,000,000........  75,000,000........  77,000,000
     Services Programs Adoption
     and Legal Guardianship
     Incentive Payments.
    Native American Programs....  FY 2025...........  34,000,000........  60,500,000........  65,500,000
    Community Services Block      FY 2003...........  Such Sums.........  645,762,000.......  778,000,000
     Grant.
    Economic Development........  FY 2003...........  Such Sums.........  27,082,000........  23,383,000
    Rural Community Development.  FY 2003...........  Such Sums.........  7,203,000.........  14,000,000
    Head Start..................  FY 2012...........  Such Sums.........  7,968,544,000.....  12,366,820,000
    Runaway and Homeless Youth    FY 2020...........  127,421,000.......  126,980,000.......  125,283,000
     Programs.
    CAPTA programs..............  FY 2015...........  Such Sums.........  143,981,000.......  107,091,000
    Family Violence Programs....  FY 2015...........  178,500,000.......  139,500,000.......  245,000,000
    National Domestic Violence    FY 2015...........  Such Sums.........  4,500,000.........  20,500,000
     Hotline.
    Child Welfare Services......  FY 2016...........  325,000,000.......  268,735,000.......  268,735,000
    Refugee and Entrant           FY 2002...........
     Assistance Programs.
    Survivors of Torture........  FY 2007...........  25,000,000........  9,817,000.........  19,000,000
    Anti-Trafficking in Persons   FY2021............  19,500,000........  28,755,000........  30,755,000
     Programs.
ACL
    Lifespan Respite Care.......  FY 2011...........  94,810,000........  2,495,000.........  11,000,000
    State Health Insurance        FY 1996...........  10,000,000........  N/A...............  55,242,000
     Assistance Program.
    Developmental Disabilities..  FY 2007...........  Such Sums.........  155,115,000.......  191,369,000
    Voting Access for People      FY 2005...........  17,410,000........  13,879,000........  10,000,000
     with Disabilities.
    Traumatic Brain Injury......  FY 2019...........  7,321,000.........  11,321,000........  13,118,000
    Paralysis Resource Center...  FY 2011...........  25,000,000........  6,352,000.........  10,700,000
    Limb Loss...................  N/A...............  N/A...............  N/A...............  5,000,000
    Independent Living and the    FY 2020...........  214,135,000.......  228,153,000.......  272,183,000
     National Institute on
     Disability, Independent
     Living and Rehabilitation
     Research.
    Aging and Disability          FY2024............  10,967,554........  8,619,000.........  8,619,000
     Resource Center.
    Preventative Health Services  FY2024............  33,565,929........  26,339,000........  26,339,000
ASPR
    BARDA.......................  FY 2024...........  611,700,000.......  1,015,000.........  1,060,000,000
    Strategic National Stockpile  FY 2024...........  750,000,00........  980,000,000.......  1,060,000,000
    Pandemic Influenza..........  FY 2024...........  250,000,000.......  315,000,000.......  312,991,000
    National Disaster Medical     FY 2024...........  57,404,000........  78,904,000........  89,904,000
     System.
    Hospital Preparedness         FY 2024...........  385,000,000.......  305,055,000.......  70,055,000
     Program.
    Medical Reserve Corps.......  FY 2024...........  11,200,000........  6,240,000.........  6,240,000
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
    Title I Grants to LEAs......  FY 2020...........  16,182,345,000....  16,309,802,000....  16,531,647,000
    Innovative Approaches to      FY 2020...........  180,014,000.......  27,000,000........  40,000,000
     Literacy.
    Comprehensive Literacy        FY 2020...........  (include in         192,000,000.......  219,000,000
     Development.                                      program above).
    Impact Aid..................  FY 2020...........  1,388,603,000.....  1,486,112,000.....  1,635,151,000
    Supporting Effective          FY 2020...........  2,295,830,000.....  2,131,830,000.....  1,681,441,000
     Instruction State Grants.
    Indian Education............  FY 2020...........  N/A...............  196,746,000.......  200,746,000
    Nita M. Lowey 21st Century    FY 2020...........  1,100,000,000.....  1,249,673,000.....  1,329,673,000
     Community Learning Centers.
    Education for Native          FY 2020...........  32,397,000........  36,897,000........  45,897,000
     Hawaiians.
    Alaska Native Education.....  FY 2020...........  31,453,000........  35,953,000........  44,953,000
    Rural Education.............  FY 2020...........  169,840,000.......  185,840,000.......  230,000,000
    Student Support and Academic  FY 2020...........  1,600,000,000.....  1,210,000,000.....  1,385,000,000
     Enrichment Grants.
    Education Innovation and      FY 2020...........  90,611,000........  190,000,000.......  235,000,000
     Research.
    Education for Homeless        FY 2020...........  85,000,000........  101,500,000.......  129,000,000
     Children and Youth.
    American History and Civics.  FY 2020...........  19,567,000........  4,815,000.........  33,000,000
    Charter Schools Grants......  FY 2020...........  300,000,000.......  440,000,000.......  500,000,000
    Magnet Schools..............  FY 2020...........  108,530,00........  107,000,000.......  139,000,000
    School Safety National        FY 2020...........  5,000,000.........  105,000,000.......  243,643,000
     Activities.
    Vocational Rehabilitation     FY 2021...........  3,610,040,000.....  4,504,096,000.....  4,625,707,000
     State Grants.
    Client Assistance State       FY 2021...........  14,098,000........  13,000,000........  13,000,000
     Grants.
    Supported Employment State    FY 2021...........  32,363,000........  22,548,000........  22,548,000
     Grants.
    Training....................  FY 2021...........  39,540,000........  29,388,000........  29,388,000
    Demonstration and Training    FY 2021...........  6,809,000.........  5,796,000.........  5,796,000
     Programs.
    Services for Older Blind      FY 2021...........  39,141,000........  33,317,000........  33,317,000
     Individuals.
    Protection and Advocacy of    FY 2021...........  20,735,000........  17,650,000........  21,150,000
     Individual Rights.
    Helen Keller National Center  FY 2004...........  Such Sums.........  8,666,000.........  22,000,000
     for Deaf-Blind Youths and
     Adults.
    National Technical Institute  FY 2015...........  Such Sums.........  66,291,000........  95,500,000
     for the Deaf.
    Gallaudet University........  FY 2015...........  Such Sums.........  119,000,000.......  170,361,000
    Aid for Institutional         FY 2015...........  N/A...............  N/A...............  1,037,887,000
     Development.
    Aid for Hispanic-Serving      FY 2015...........  N/A...............  N/A...............  261,637,000
     Institutions.
    Institute of Education        FY 2008...........  N/A...............  559,603,000.......  493,455,000
     Sciences.
    Federal TRIO Programs.......  FY 2015...........  Such Sums.........  109,223,000.......  1,037,877,000
    IDEA National Activities....  FY 2010...........  Such Sums.........  838,252,000.......  258,560,000
    IDEA Grants for Infants and   FY 2010...........  Such Sums.........  439,973,000.......  550,000,000
     Families.
RELATED AGENCIES
    Corporation for National and  FY 2014...........  Such Sums.........  1,049,954,000.....  1,220,306,000
     Community Service.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                           Transfers of Funds

    Pursuant to clause 3(f)(2) of rule XIII of the Rules of the 
House of Representatives, the following list includes the 
transfers included in the accompanying bill:

                      TITLE I--DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

                               JOB CORPS

    Language is included under ``Job Corps'' allowing the 
transfer of funds from the construction, rehabilitation, and 
acquisition account to the operations account.

     STATE UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE AND EMPLOYMENT SERVICE OPERATIONS

    Language is included under ``State Unemployment Insurance 
and Employment Service Operations'' allowing the transfer of 
funds made available for research and demonstration projects to 
the ``Office of Disability Employment Policy'' account.

                            SPECIAL BENEFITS

    Language is included under ``Special Benefits'' requiring 
the transfer of funds from the Postal Service and other 
required entities to pay the cost of administration of the 
Federal Employees' Compensation Act.

                    BLACK LUNG DISABILITY TRUST FUND

    Language is included under ``Black Lung Disability Trust 
Fund'' allowing the transfer of funds from the Black Lung 
Disability Trust Fund to the Office of Workers' Compensation 
Programs for ``Salaries and Expenses''; to Departmental 
Management for ``Salaries and Expenses''; to Departmental 
Management for the ``Office of Inspector General''; and for 
payments into miscellaneous receipts for the expenses of the 
Department of the Treasury.

                 OFFICE OF DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT POLICY

    Language is included under ``Office of Disability 
Employment Policy'' which provides for the transfer of funds to 
``State Unemployment Insurance and Employment Service 
Operations.''

                        DEPARTMENTAL MANAGEMENT

    Language is included under ``Departmental Management, 
Salaries and Expenses'' allowing the transfer of program 
evaluation funds to the appropriate account in the Department 
for such purpose.

                           GENERAL PROVISIONS

    A general provision is included permitting up to one 
percent of any discretionary appropriation to be transferred 
between an existing program, project, or activity of the 
Department of Labor, provided that no program, project, or 
activity is increased by more than three percent by any such 
transfer.
    A general provision is included permitting the transfer of 
``Employment and Training Administration'' funds for technical 
assistance to ``Program Administration'' when such activities 
would be more effectively performed by Federal employees. The 
provision also authorizes the transfer of 0.5 percent of 
``Employment and Training Administration'' discretionary grants 
to ``Program Administration'' for purposes of program integrity 
activities.
    A general provision is included that allows for the 
transfer of up to 0.75 of funds under the ``Training and 
Employment Services,'' ``Job Corps,'' ``Community Service 
Employment for Older Americans,'' State Unemployment Insurance 
and Employment Service Operations,'' Employee Benefits Security 
Administration,'' ``Office of Workers Compensation Services,'' 
Wage and Hour Division,'' Office of Federal Contract Compliance 
Programs,'' ``Office of Labor Management Standards,'' 
Occupational Safety and Health Administration,'' ``Mine Safety 
and Health Administration,'' Office of Disability Employment 
Policy,'' funds made available for the ``Bureau of 
International Labor Affairs'' and ``Women's Bureau'' within the 
``Departmental Management, Salaries, and Expenses'' account and 
``Veterans'' Employment and Training'' accounts to 
``Departmental Management'' for purposes of evaluating programs 
or activities funded under such accounts.

           TITLE II--DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

               CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION

    Language is included under ``Buildings and Facilitates'' 
that directs that prior-year unobligated balances from 
individual learning accounts for former employees be credited 
and merged with the amounts made available for the replacement 
of the mine safety and research facility.
    Language is included under ``CDC Wide Activities and 
Program Support'' for funds to be transferred to and merged 
with the Infectious Diseases Rapid Response Reserve Fund.

                     NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH

    Language is included under ``Office of the Director'' 
requiring the transfer of funds to the ``Office of Inspector 
General'' for oversight of grant programs and operations of the 
NIH.

                ADMINISTRATION FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

    Language is included under ``Refugee and Entrant 
Assistance'' allowing additional transfers to this account 
notwithstanding the limitations in section 205.

                  ADMINISTRATION FOR COMMUNITY LIVING

    Language is included under the ``Aging and Disability 
Services Programs'' for the transfer to the Secretary of 
Agriculture to carry out section 311 of the Older Americans Act 
of 1965.

                           GENERAL PROVISIONS

    A general provision that allows up to one percent of any 
discretionary funds to be transferred between existing 
appropriations accounts of the ``Department of Health and Human 
Services,'' provided that no appropriation account is increased 
by more than three percent by such transfer.
    A general provision is included that allows for the 
transfer of funding determined to be related to the human 
immunodeficiency virus to the ``Office of AIDS Research.''
    A general provision is included that allows the transfer of 
funds among the institutes and centers of the ``National 
Institutes of Health'' from amounts identified as funding 
research pertaining to the human immunodeficiency virus to the 
``Office of AIDS Research'' account.
    A general provision is included that transfers 1 percent of 
the amounts made available for the ``National Research Service 
Awards'' and the ``National Institutes of Health'' to the 
``Health Resources and Services Administration.''
    A general provision is included to direct the transfer of 
the ``Prevention and Public Health Fund'' as specified in the 
committee report accompanying the Act.
    A general provision is included that allows the transfer of 
funds related to research on opioid addiction, opioid 
alternatives, stimulant misuse and addiction, pain management, 
and addiction treatment between the institutes and centers of 
the ``National Institute of Health.''

                   TITLE III--DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

                           GENERAL PROVISIONS

    A general provision is included that allows not to exceed 
one percent of any discretionary funds to be transferred 
between existing appropriations accounts of the Department of 
Educations, provided that not appropriation accounts is 
increased by more than three percent by such transfer.
    A general provision is included that allows the transfer of 
funds available for ``Institute of Education Sciences'' for 
support services to ``Departmental Management, Program 
Administration''.

                       TITLE IV--RELATED AGENCIES

             CORPORATION FOR NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE

    Language is included under ``Payment to the National 
Service Trust'' allowing for the transfer of funds from amounts 
provided in ``Operating Expenses'' to ``Payment to the National 
Service Trust'' to support the activities of national service 
participants.

                     SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

    Language is included under ``Limitation on Administrative 
Expenses'' allowing the transfer of funds to the ``Office of 
the Inspector General''.
    Language is included under ``Office of the Inspector 
General'' allowing the transfer of funds from ``Limitation on 
Administrative Expenses'' to the ``Office of the Inspector 
General.''

                 TITLE V--BILL WIDE GENERAL PROVISIONS

    A general provision is included that allows the Secretaries 
of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education to transfer 
balances of prior appropriations to accounts corresponding to 
current appropriations.
                          RESCISSIONS OF FUNDS

    Pursuant to clause 3(f)(2) of rule XIII of the Rules of the 
House of Representatives, the following table lists the 
rescissions included in the accompanying bill:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                  Program or Activity                        Amount
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title I--Department of Labor
    Employment and Training Administration
        Adult Training FY 2026 Advance................      $712,000,000
    General Provisions
        H-1B Fees (Sec. 115)..........................       213,000,000
Title II--Department of Health and Human Services
    Nonrecurring Expenses Fund (sec. 237).............     2,000,000,000
Title III--Department of Education
    School Improvement Programs
        Supporting Effective Instruction State Grants      1,681,441,000
         FY 2027 Advance..............................
    General Provisions
        Nonrecurring Expenses Fund (sec. 310).........       250,000,000
        Section 401 of the Higher Education Act (sec.         20,000,000
         318).........................................
Title V--General Provisions
    American Rescue Plan Act (sec. 529)...............       162,000,000
    Patient Centered Outcomes Research Trust Fund            859,000,000
     (sec. 530).......................................
    Affordable Care Act (sec. 531)....................     1,900,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

   Disclosure of Earmarks and Congressionally Directed Spending Items

    Pursuant to clause 9 of rule XXI of the Rules of the House 
of Representatives, neither the bill nor this report contains 
any congressional earmarks, limited tax benefits, or limited 
tariff benefits as defined in clause 9 of rule XXI of the Rules 
of the House of Representatives.

              DEPARTMENTS OF LABOR, HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, AND EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES
                                           [Community Project Funding]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                       House
         Agency                  Account                      Project               House Amount   Requestor(s)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Access Community Health Network,     $2,000,000  Davis (IL)
 Human Services            Services               Chicago, IL for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Access Community Health Network,        750,000  Jackson (IL)
 Human Services            Services               Chicago, IL for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Access Community Health Network,        500,000  Ramirez
 Human Services            Services               Chicago, IL for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Adult & Child Health,                   750,000  Carson
 Human Services            Services               Indianapolis, IN for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Advance Community Health,             1,000,000  Ross (NC)
 Human Services            Services               Raleigh, NC for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   AdventHealth Polk, Columbus, NC       1,000,000  Moore (NC)
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Adventist Health Mendocino Coast,       250,000  Huffman
 Human Services            Services               Fort Bragg, CA for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Adventist Health System Georgia,        400,000  Loudermilk
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Calhoun, GA for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Adventist Health Tillamook,             480,000  Bonamici
 Human Services            Services               Tillamook, OR for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Affinia Healthcare, Ferguson, MO      1,500,000  Bell
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Agape Community Health Center,          325,000  Rutherford
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Jacksonville, FL for
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Alabama Regional Medical                716,000  Sewell
 Human Services            Services               Services, Birmingham, AL for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Albany Area Primary Health Care,        745,000  Bishop
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Albany, GA for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Alivio Medical Center, Chicago,       1,500,000  Garcia (IL)
 Human Services            Services               IL for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Allegheny County, PA for              1,000,000  Lee (PA)
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Allegheny County, PA for                250,000  Deluzio
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   AltaPointe Health System, Inc.,         250,000  Figures
 Human Services            Services               Mobile, AL for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Altura Centers for Health,              250,000  Fong
 Human Services            Services               Tulare, CA for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   American Indian Health &                250,000  Carbajal
 Human Services            Services               Services, Santa Barbara, CA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Appalachian Center for                1,250,000  Griffith
 Human Services            Services               Excellence, Coeburn, VA for
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Aria Community Health Center,         1,749,171  Valadao
 Human Services            Services               Lemoore, CA for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Arlington County, VA for              1,000,000  Beyer
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Armstrong County Memorial             2,358,755  Thompson (PA)
 Human Services            Services               Hospital, Kittanning, PA for
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Ashtabula County Medical Center       2,000,000  Joyce (OH)
 Human Services            Services               dba Ashtabula Regional Medical
                           Administration         Center, Ashtabula, OH for
                                                  facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Asian American Health Coalition       1,500,000  Garcia (TX)
 Human Services            Services               of the Greater Houston Area--
                           Administration         HOPE Clinic, Houston, TX for
                                                  facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Athol Memorial Hospital, Athol,       1,600,000  McGovern
 Human Services            Services               MA for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Auburn Community Hospital,              950,000  Mannion
 Human Services            Services               Auburn, NY for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Austintown Township, OH for           1,000,000  Rulli
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   AxessPointe Community Health            750,000  Sykes
 Human Services            Services               Centers, Inc., Ravenna, OH for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Baptist Health Deaconess              2,500,000  Comer
 Human Services            Services               Madisonville, Inc.,
                           Administration         Madisonville, KY for facilities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Bates County Memorial Hospital,         100,000  Alford
 Human Services            Services               Butler, MO for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Bay Area Community Health,              750,000  Khanna
 Human Services            Services               Fremont, CA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Bay Area Hospital, Coos Bay, OR       2,000,000  Hoyle (OR)
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Benson Hospital Corporation,          2,000,000  Ciscomani
 Human Services            Services               Benson, AZ for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Berks Community Health Center,          675,000  Houlahan
 Human Services            Services               Reading, PA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Bernalillo County, NM for               750,000  Vasquez
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Bighorn Valley Health Center,         1,000,000  Downing
 Human Services            Services               Inc., dba One Health, Hardin, MT
                           Administration         for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Blanchard Valley Health System,         350,000  Latta
 Human Services            Services               Findlay, OH for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Blue Ridge Community Health           1,000,000  Edwards
 Human Services            Services               Services, Inc., dba Blue Ridge
                           Administration         Health, Hendersonville, NC for
                                                  facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Bon Secours Mercy Health--              500,000  Kaptur
 Human Services            Services               Defiance Hospital, Defiance, OH
                           Administration         for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Bond Community Health Center,           450,000  Dunn (FL)
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Tallahassee, FL for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Boone Memorial Hospital, Madison,     1,000,000  Miller (WV)
 Human Services            Services               WV for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Borinquen Health Care Center,           576,356  Diaz-Balart
 Human Services            Services               Inc., dba Borinquen Medical
                           Administration         Centers, Miami, FL for equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Borinquen Health Care Center,           264,790  Diaz-Balart
 Human Services            Services               Inc., dba Borinquen Medical
                           Administration         Centers, Miami, FL for equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Bowling Green-Warren County             740,125  Comer
 Human Services            Services               Community Hospital Corporations
                           Administration         dba Med Center Health
                                                  Russellville, Bowling Green, KY
                                                  for equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Bowling Green-Warren County             497,500  Comer
 Human Services            Services               Community Hospital Corporations
                           Administration         dba Med Center Health
                                                  Scottsville, Bowling Green, KY
                                                  for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Box Elder County, Brigham City,         475,000  Moore (UT)
 Human Services            Services               UT for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Broward Community and Family            500,000  Wilson (FL)
 Human Services            Services               Health Centers, Hollywood, FL
                           Administration         for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Bucktail Medical Center, Renovo,        182,000  Thompson (PA)
 Human Services            Services               PA for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Butler Memorial Hospital, Butler,     1,250,000  Kelly (PA)
 Human Services            Services               PA for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Calhoun Liberty Hospital                450,000  Dunn (FL)
 Human Services            Services               Association Inc., Blountstown,
                           Administration         FL for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Capital Area Health Network,            400,000  McClellan
 Human Services            Services               Richmond, VA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Cares Community Health dba One          250,000  Bera
 Human Services            Services               Community Health, Sacramento, CA
                           Administration         for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Caring Health Center, Inc.,           1,000,000  Neal
 Human Services            Services               Springfield, MA for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Carroll Hospital Center, Inc.,          250,000  Olszewski
 Human Services            Services               Westminster, MD for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Central Florida Family Health         1,100,000  Mills
 Human Services            Services               Center, Inc., Sanford, FL for
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Centro San Vicente, El Paso, TX         750,000  Escobar
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Charles County, MD for facilities       750,000  Hoyer
 Human Services            Services               and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Charles Drew Health Center, Inc.,       750,000  Bacon
 Human Services            Services               Omaha, NE for facilities
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Charles River Community Health        2,000,000  Clark (MA)
 Human Services            Services               Center, Waltham, MA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Charlotte Community Health Clinic     1,000,000  Adams
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Charlotte, NC for
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Chemung County, Elmira, NY for          500,000  Langworthy
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   ChesPenn Health Services,               180,000  Scanlon
 Human Services            Services               Eddystone, PA for a health
                           Administration         technology initiative
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Chestnut Health Systems,                750,000  Budzinski
 Human Services            Services               Bloomington, IN for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Chicago Family Health Center,           208,000  Jackson (IL)
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Chicago, IL for a health
                           Administration         information technology
                                                  initiative
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Chickasaw Nation, Ada, OK for         4,000,000  Cole
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Chinatown Service Center, Los           750,000  Gomez
 Human Services            Services               Angeles, CA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Chiricahua Community Health             204,000  Grijalva
 Human Services            Services               Centers, Inc., Douglas, AZ for
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Circle Health Services dba The        1,000,000  Brown
 Human Services            Services               Centers, Cleveland, OH for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Citizens Memorial Hospital,           1,000,000  Alford
 Human Services            Services               Bolivar, MO for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Albuquerque, NM for           1,000,000  Stansbury
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Alexandria, VA for               95,000  Beyer
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Anaheim, CA for                 500,000  Correa
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Brockton, MA for                568,000  Lynch
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Burlington, VT for              750,000  Balint
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Cincinnati, OH for              750,000  Landsman
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Clovis, NM for facilities     1,500,000  Leger
 Human Services            Services               and equipment                                    Fernandez
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of El Paso, TX for                 500,000  Escobar
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Fort Worth, TX for              750,000  Veasey
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Frederick, MD for             1,100,000  McClain
 Human Services            Services               equipment                                        Delaney
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Gulfport, MS for              1,500,000  Ezell
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Hampton, VA for equipment       250,000  Scott (VA)
 Human Services            Services
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Indianapolis, IN for            750,000  Carson
 Human Services            Services               equipment, including an
                           Administration         electronic health records
                                                  initiative
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Laurel, MT for facilities       500,000  Downing
 Human Services            Services               and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Long Beach, CA for              500,000  Garcia (CA)
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Los Angeles, CA for           1,500,000  Sherman
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Marianna, FL for                200,000  Dunn (FL)
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Philadelphia, PA for            500,000  Boyle (PA)
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Phoenix, AZ for                 750,000  Ansari
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Providence, RI for              230,000  Amo
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Redondo Beach, CA for           250,000  Lieu
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of San Diego, CA for             1,000,000  Jacobs
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Springfield, IL for             461,000  Budzinski
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of St. Joseph, MO for              500,000  Graves
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Stockton, CA for              2,000,000  Harder
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Sunland Park, NM for          1,500,000  Vasquez
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Tuscaloosa, AL for            1,000,000  Sewell
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Union, OH for facilities      1,000,000  Turner
 Human Services            Services               and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   City of Wooster, OH for               1,500,000  Miller (OH)
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Clarion Healthcare System, Inc.,      1,500,000  Thompson (PA)
 Human Services            Services               Clarion, PA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Clark County, NV for facilities         821,000  Lee (NV)
 Human Services            Services               and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Clay County Hospital, Ashland, AL     1,000,000  Rogers (AL)
 Human Services            Services               for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Cleveland County, NC for                500,000  Moore (NC)
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Clinica Sierra Vista,                 1,500,000  Valadao
 Human Services            Services               Bakersfield, CA for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Clinicas de Salud del Pueblo,         1,500,000  Ruiz
 Human Services            Services               Inc., El Centro, CA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Clinton Hospital Authority dba          250,000  Lucas
 Human Services            Services               Clinton Regional Hospital,
                           Administration         Clinton, OK for facilities and
                                                  equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Codman Square Health Center,            140,000  Pressley
 Human Services            Services               Boston, MA for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Commonwealth Healthcare               1,000,000  King-Hinds
 Human Services            Services               Corporation, Saipan, MP for
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Community Action Partnership of         298,000  Smith (NE)
 Human Services            Services               Western Nebraska, Gering, NE for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Community Health and Dental Care,       119,000  Houlahan
 Human Services            Services               Pottstown, PA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Community Health Care, Inc.,            500,000  Miller-Meeks
 Human Services            Services               Davenport, IA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Community Health Center of Branch     3,000,000  Walberg
 Human Services            Services               County, Coldwater, MI for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Community Health Center of Cape         500,000  Keating
 Human Services            Services               Cod, Inc., Mashpee, MA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Community Health Centers, Inc.,       1,500,000  Webster (FL)
 Human Services            Services               Winter Garden, FL for facilities
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Community Health Centers, Inc.,         700,000  Frost
 Human Services            Services               Winter Garden, FL for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Community Health Centers of             834,000  Castor (FL)
 Human Services            Services               Pinellas dba Evara Health,
                           Administration         Clearwater, FL for facilities
                                                  and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Community Health Centers of the         750,000  Balint
 Human Services            Services               Rutland Region, Inc., Rutland,
                           Administration         VT for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Community Health Connections            500,000  McGovern
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Fitchburg, MA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Community Health Partnership of         250,000  Kelly (IL)
 Human Services            Services               Illinois, Kankakee, IL for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Community Health Systems, Inc.,       1,000,000  Aguilar
 Human Services            Services               Riverside, CA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Compass Health, Inc., Clinton, MO       500,000  Alford
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Concho County Hospital District,        500,000  Pfluger
 Human Services            Services               Eden, TX for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Cookeville Regional Medical             300,000  Rose (TN)
 Human Services            Services               Center, Cookeville, TN for
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Coosa Valley Medical Center,          2,500,000  Rogers (AL)
 Human Services            Services               Sylacauga, AL for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Cottage Hospital, Woodsville, NH        250,000  Goodlander
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   County of Atlantic, NJ for            1,000,000  Van Drew
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   County of Franklin, VA for              500,000  Griffith
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   County of Humboldt, CA for              750,000  Huffman
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   County of Lee--Office of County         400,000  Donalds
 Human Services            Services               Commissioners, Fort Myers, FL
                           Administration         for equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   County of Riverside, CA for             750,000  Ruiz
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   County of Saginaw, MI for             1,500,000  McDonald Rivet
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   County of Saginaw, MI for               750,000  McDonald Rivet
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   County of Santa Barbara, CA for         500,000  Carbajal
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   County of Saratoga, NY for              300,000  Stefanik
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   County of Schenectady, NY for           437,000  Tonko
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   County of Taylor dba Taylor             485,000  Nunn (IA)
 Human Services            Services               County Public Health, Bedford,
                           Administration         IA for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Crawford Hospital District dba        2,000,000  Bost
 Human Services            Services               Crawford Memorial Hospital,
                           Administration         Robinson, IL for equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Crenshaw County Health Care             750,000  Figures
 Human Services            Services               Authority dba Crenshaw Community
                           Administration         Hospital, Luverne, AL for
                                                  facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Crescent Community Health Center,       850,000  Hinson
 Human Services            Services               Dubuque, IA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Cuba Memorial Hospital, Cuba, NY        300,000  Langworthy
 Human Services            Services               for facilities
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Cumberland County, NC for               750,000  Rouzer
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Dallas County, TX for facilities      1,000,000  Johnson (TX)
 Human Services            Services               and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Damian Family Care Centers Inc.,         45,000  Meeks
 Human Services            Services               Jamaica, NY for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Deborah Heart and Lung Center,          750,000  Conaway
 Human Services            Services               Browns Mills, NJ for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Delta County Memorial Hospital        1,245,404  Hurd
 Human Services            Services               District, Delta, CO for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Delta Health Center, Mound Bayou,       500,000  Thompson (MS)
 Human Services            Services               MS for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Delta Memorial Hospital, Dumas,         750,000  Crawford
 Human Services            Services               AR for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Department of Public Health and         500,000  Moylan
 Human Services            Services               Social Services, Dededo, GU for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Donalsonville Hospital, Inc.,           348,000  Bishop
 Human Services            Services               Donalsonville, GA for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Douglas, Grant, Lincoln, and          1,750,000  Newhouse
 Human Services            Services               Okanogan Counties Public
                           Administration         Hospital District #6, Grand
                                                  Coulee, WA for facilities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Duplin General Hospital Inc.,         1,000,000  Murphy
 Human Services            Services               Kenansville, NC for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   East Alabama Medical Center,          1,500,000  Rogers (AL)
 Human Services            Services               Opelika, AL for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   East Grand Health Center, LLC,          500,000  Golden (ME)
 Human Services            Services               Danforth, ME for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   East Hill Family Medical, Inc.        1,000,000  Mannion
 Human Services            Services               dba East Hill Medical Center,
                           Administration         Auburn, NY for facilities and
                                                  equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Edward M. Kennedy Community           1,095,000  Clark (MA)
 Human Services            Services               Health Center, Framingham, MA
                           Administration         for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Eisner Health, Los Angeles, CA          250,000  Rivas
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   El Centro de Corazon, Houston, TX     2,000,000  Garcia (TX)
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   El Centro del Barrio dba                509,000  Castro (TX)
 Human Services            Services               CentroMed, San Antonio, TX for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   El Paso County, TX for facilities     1,000,000  Escobar
 Human Services            Services               and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   El Paso County, TX for facilities       500,000  Escobar
 Human Services            Services               and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   El Proyecto del Barrio, Inc.,         1,000,000  Sherman
 Human Services            Services               Arleta, CA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Electra Hospital District,              500,000  Jackson (TX)
 Human Services            Services               Electra, TX for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Erlanger Health, Dunlap, TN for         750,000  DesJarlais
 Human Services            Services               facilities
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Fairview Hospital, Great                975,000  Neal
 Human Services            Services               Barrington, MA for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Families Together of Orange             500,000  Min
 Human Services            Services               County, Tustin, CA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Family Care Health Centers, St.         500,000  Bell
 Human Services            Services               Louis, MO for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Family Health Centers, Inc.,          1,000,000  McGarvey
 Human Services            Services               Louisville, KY for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Family Health Centers of San          1,000,000  Jacobs
 Human Services            Services               Diego, Inc., San Diego, CA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Family Practice & Counseling            990,000  Scanlon
 Human Services            Services               Services Network, Philadelphia,
                           Administration         PA for facilities and equipment,
                                                  including an electronic health
                                                  records initiative
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Farmers Union Hospital                  500,000  Lucas
 Human Services            Services               Association dba Great Plains
                           Administration         Regional Medical Center, Elk
                                                  City, OK for facilities and
                                                  equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Fisher-Titus Medical Center,            350,000  Latta
 Human Services            Services               Norwalk, OH for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Foremost Family Health Centers,       1,880,000  Crockett
 Human Services            Services               Dallas, TX for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Fort Bend Family Health Center,         500,000  Green
 Human Services            Services               Inc., TX for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   FoundCare, Inc., West Palm Beach,     1,000,000  Frankel
 Human Services            Services               FL for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   FoundCare, Inc., West Palm Beach,     1,000,000  Frankel
 Human Services            Services               FL for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Franklin County Medical Center,         750,000  Simpson
 Human Services            Services               Preston, ID for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Franklin Parish Hospital Service      2,500,000  Letlow
 Human Services            Services               Dist 1 dba Franklin Medical
                           Administration         Center, Winnsboro, LA for
                                                  facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Frederiksted Health Care, Inc.,       1,000,000  Plaskett
 Human Services            Services               St. Croix, VI for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Frick Hospital and Community            500,000  Reschenthaler
 Human Services            Services               Health Center, Mount Pleasant,
                           Administration         PA for equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Friend Family Health Center,            250,000  Jackson (IL)
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Chicago, IL for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Frontera Healthcare Network,          1,000,000  Pfluger
 Human Services            Services               Menard, TX for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Ft. Bend Family Health Center,        1,000,000  Nehls
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Richmond, TX for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Fulton County Medical Center,           200,000  Joyce (PA)
 Human Services            Services               McConnellsburg, PA for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   G.A. Carmichael Family Center,          500,000  Thompson (MS)
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Canton, MS for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Garfield County Hospital                750,000  Baumgartner
 Human Services            Services               District, Pomeroy, WA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Garfield Health Center, Monterey      1,500,000  Cisneros
 Human Services            Services               Park, CA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Gateway Community Health Center,      1,000,000  Cuellar
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Laredo, TX for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Genesis Community Health Inc.,          500,000  Frankel
 Human Services            Services               Boynton Beach, FL for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Gibson Area Hospital, Rantoul, IL       250,000  Kelly (IL)
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Gila Regional Medical Center,           500,000  Vasquez
 Human Services            Services               Silver City, NM for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Government of the Virgin Islands,     1,300,000  Plaskett
 Human Services            Services               St. Croix, VI for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment, including information
                                                  technology
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital          750,000  Plaskett
 Human Services            Services               and Medical Center, St. Croix,
                           Administration         VI for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Grafton City Hospital, Inc.,          1,500,000  Moore (WV)
 Human Services            Services               Grafton, WV for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Grant Memorial Hospital, Inc.,        1,500,000  Moore (WV)
 Human Services            Services               Petersburg, WV for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Grant Regional Health Center,           750,000  Van Orden
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Lancaster, WI for
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Great Salt Plains Health Center,        250,000  Lucas
 Human Services            Services               Enid, OK for facilities
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Greater New Bedford Community         1,500,000  Keating
 Human Services            Services               Health Center, Inc., New
                           Administration         Bedford, MA for facilities and
                                                  equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Greater Philadelphia Health           1,380,000  Evans (PA)
 Human Services            Services               Action, Inc., Philadelphia, PA
                           Administration         for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Greater Regional Medical Center,        275,000  Nunn (IA)
 Human Services            Services               Creston, IA for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Greene County, AL for equipment         400,000  Sewell
 Human Services            Services
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Guadalupe Regional Medical            3,000,000  De La Cruz
 Human Services            Services               Center, Seguin, TX for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Guam Memorial Hospital Authority,       500,000  Moylan
 Human Services            Services               Tamuning, GU for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Gulf Health Hospitals, Inc. dba       1,000,000  Moore (AL)
 Human Services            Services               North Baldwin Infirmary, Bay
                           Administration         Minette, AL for facilities and
                                                  equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital,       1,000,000  Meuser
 Human Services            Services               Sayre, PA for facilities
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Gwinnett County, GA for equipment       496,000  Scott (GA)
 Human Services            Services
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Hamdard Health Alliance, Chicago,     1,000,000  Schakowsky
 Human Services            Services               IL for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Harmony Health Care Long Island,      1,000,000  Gillen
 Human Services            Services               Garden City, NY for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Harris County, TX for equipment         425,000  Fletcher
 Human Services            Services
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Harris County, TX for facilities      1,000,000  Menefee
 Human Services            Services               and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Harris County, TX for facilities      1,000,000  Garcia (TX)
 Human Services            Services               and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Harris County, TX for facilities      1,000,000  Fletcher
 Human Services            Services               and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Harris County, TX for facilities        500,000  Green
 Human Services            Services               and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Harris County, TX for facilities        250,000  Menefee
 Human Services            Services               and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Harvard Street Neighborhood           2,000,000  Pressley
 Human Services            Services               Health Center, Inc., Boston, MA
                           Administration         for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Health Care District of Palm          1,000,000  Frankel
 Human Services            Services               Beach County, West Palm Beach,
                           Administration         FL for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   HealthFirst Family Care Center,         500,000  Pappas
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Laconia, NH for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   HealthLinc INC, South Bend, IN        1,500,000  Yakym
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Heart of Ohio Family Health             750,000  Beatty
 Human Services            Services               Centers, Columbus, OH for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Heartland Health Center, Inc.,          700,000  Smith (NE)
 Human Services            Services               Grand Island, NE for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Henry J. Austin Health Center,        1,500,000  Watson Coleman
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Trenton, NJ for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   HH Health System--DeKalb LLC.,        4,245,159  Aderholt
 Human Services            Services               Huntsville, AL for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   HH Health System--Lincoln Inc.,         250,000  DesJarlais
 Human Services            Services               Huntsville, AL for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Hillsborough County, FL for           1,500,000  Lee (FL)
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Hillsdale Community Health Center       952,368  Walberg
 Human Services            Services               dba Hillsdale Hospital,
                           Administration         Hillsdale, MI for equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Hilltown Community Health               250,000  McGovern
 Human Services            Services               Centers, Worthington, MA for a
                           Administration         telehealth and health
                                                  information technology
                                                  initiative
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Hilltown Community Health               350,000  Neal
 Human Services            Services               Centers, Worthington, MA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Hilltown Community Health               250,000  Neal
 Human Services            Services               Centers, Worthington, MA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   HOPE Clinic, Houston, TX for            250,000  Green
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Hospital General de Castaner,           750,000  Hernandez
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Castaner, PR for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Houston Area Community Services         250,000  Green
 Human Services            Services               dba Avenue 360 Health and
                           Administration         Wellness, Houston, TX for
                                                  facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Hurtt Family Health Clinic, Inc.,     1,000,000  Kim
 Human Services            Services               Tustin, CA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Hurtt Family Health Clinic, Inc.,       250,000  Correa
 Human Services            Services               Tustin, CA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Ibis Healthcare, Tampa, FL for          750,000  Castor (FL)
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Indian Health Center of Santa           950,000  Lofgren
 Human Services            Services               Clara Valley, San Jose, CA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Indiana Regional Medical Center,      1,750,000  Reschenthaler
 Human Services            Services               Indiana, PA for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Infinity Health, Leon, IA for           750,000  Nunn (IA)
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Iroquois Memorial Hospital and          250,000  Kelly (IL)
 Human Services            Services               Resident Home, Watseka, IL for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Islands Community Medical               635,000  Pingree
 Human Services            Services               Services, Inc., Vinalhaven, ME
                           Administration         for facilities and equipment,
                                                  including information technology
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Jericho Road Ministries, Inc.,          500,000  Kennedy (NY)
 Human Services            Services               Buffalo, NY for an electronic
                           Administration         health records initiative
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Jessie Trice Community Health           750,000  Wilson (FL)
 Human Services            Services               System, Inc., Miami, FL for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Johnson County, KS for equipment      2,000,000  Davids (KS)
 Human Services            Services
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Jordan Valley Community Health,       1,000,000  Alford
 Human Services            Services               Lebanon, MO for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Kahuku Medical Center, Kahuku, HI     1,500,000  Tokuda
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Kalihi Palama Health Center,          1,000,000  Case
 Human Services            Services               Honolulu, HI for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Kane County Human Resource            2,000,000  Maloy
 Human Services            Services               Special Service District dba
                           Administration         Kane County Hospital, Kanab, UT
                                                  for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Kedren Community Care Clinic, Los       472,000  Kamlager-Dove
 Human Services            Services               Angeles, CA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Kedren Community Health Center,       1,500,000  Waters
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Los Angeles, CA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Kleberg County, TX for facilities       950,000  Gonzalez
 Human Services            Services               and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Klickitat County Public Hospital      1,000,000  Newhouse
 Human Services            Services               District No. 1, Goldendale, WA
                           Administration         for facilities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Kokua Kalihi Valley Comprehensive       250,000  Case
 Human Services            Services               Family Services, Honolulu, HI
                           Administration         for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   La Casa de Buena Salud, Inc.,           750,000  Leger
 Human Services            Services               Portales, NM for facilities and                  Fernandez
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Lackawanna County, Scranton, PA       2,000,000  Bresnahan
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Lakeland Community Hospital,         11,900,000  Aderholt
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Haleyville, AL for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   LaSalle Parish Hospital Service         750,000  Letlow
 Human Services            Services               District No. 1 (Hardtner Medical
                           Administration         Center), Olla, LA for facilities
                                                  and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Lawrence Township, NJ for               600,000  Van Drew
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   LCH Health and Community                188,000  Houlahan
 Human Services            Services               Services, Kennett Square, PA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Little Rivers Health Care, Inc.,        750,000  Balint
 Human Services            Services               Newbury, VT for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Lodi Memorial Hospital                1,000,000  Matsui
 Human Services            Services               Association, Inc. dba Adventist
                           Administration         Health Lodi Memorial, Lodi, CA
                                                  for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Lone Star Circle of Care,               904,500  Carter (TX)
 Human Services            Services               Georgetown, TX for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Lone Star Family Health Center          250,000  Luttrell
 Human Services            Services               Inc. dba Lone Star Family Health
                           Administration         Center, Conroe, TX for
                                                  facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Lorain County Health & Dentistry,       250,000  Latta
 Human Services            Services               Lorain, OH for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Los Barrios Unidos Community            609,000  Veasey
 Human Services            Services               Clinic, Inc., Dallas, TX for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Los Barrios Unidos Community            750,000  Veasey
 Human Services            Services               Clinic, Inc., Dallas, TX for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Loudoun Community Health Center,        143,000  Subramanyam
 Human Services            Services               Leesburg, VA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Louisville-Jefferson County Metro       500,000  McGarvey
 Human Services            Services               Government, Louisville, KY for
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Louisville-Jefferson County Metro     1,500,000  McGarvey
 Human Services            Services               Government, Louisville, KY for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Love County Health Center,           12,000,000  Cole
 Human Services            Services               Marietta, OK for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Lower Lights Christian Health           540,000  Beatty
 Human Services            Services               Center Inc., Columbus, OH for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Lower Umpqua Hospital District,         250,000  Hoyle (OR)
 Human Services            Services               Reedsport, OR for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Lutheran Hospital Association of        504,596  Hurd
 Human Services            Services               the San Luis Valley dba San Luis
                           Administration         Valley Health, Alamosa, CO for
                                                  facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Lynn Community Health, Inc.,            500,000  Moulton
 Human Services            Services               Lynn, MA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Madison Memorial Hospital,              750,000  Simpson
 Human Services            Services               Rexburg, ID for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Marana Health Care, Inc., Marana,       737,000  Grijalva
 Human Services            Services               AZ for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Marietta Memorial Hospital,             500,000  Rulli
 Human Services            Services               Marietta, OH for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Marillac Community Health Centers       500,000  Crawford
 Human Services            Services               dba DePaul Community Health
                           Administration         Center, Dumas, AR for facilities
                                                  and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Marin City Health and Wellness          750,000  Huffman
 Human Services            Services               Center, Marin City, CA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Marion Regional Medical Center,       3,000,000  Aderholt
 Human Services            Services               Inc. dba North Mississippi
                           Administration         Medical Center-Hamilton,
                                                  Hamilton, AL for facilities and
                                                  equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Mark Twain Medical Center, San        1,500,000  Harder
 Human Services            Services               Andreas, CA for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Martin Luther King Jr. Family           280,000  Johnson (TX)
 Human Services            Services               Clinic dba Foremost Family
                           Administration         Health Centers, Dallas, TX for
                                                  facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Maui Health System, Kula, HI for        500,000  Tokuda
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Mecklenburg County, North               250,000  Adams
 Human Services            Services               Carolina for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   MedStar Ambulatory Services,          1,000,000  Hoyer
 Human Services            Services               Columbia, MD for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Memorial Healthcare, Owosso, MI       1,500,000  Barrett
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Mercy Hospital Kingfisher, Inc.,        250,000  Lucas
 Human Services            Services               Kingfisher, OK for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Mercy Hospital Lebanon, Lebanon,        100,000  Alford
 Human Services            Services               MO for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Mercy Hospital Logan County,          2,000,000  Bice
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Guthrie, OK for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Metro Denver Provider Network dba       250,000  Pettersen
 Human Services            Services               STRIDE Community Health Center,
                           Administration         Wheat Ridge, CO for facilities
                                                  and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Minidoka Memorial Hospital,             495,000  Simpson
 Human Services            Services               Rupert, ID for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Monroe County Hospital,                 750,000  Figures
 Human Services            Services               Monroeville, AL for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Monroe County, NY for facilities      1,000,000  Morelle
 Human Services            Services               and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Montgomery County, MD for             1,000,000  Raskin
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Montgomery County, MD for               250,000  Raskin
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Montgomery General Hospital,            250,000  Miller (WV)
 Human Services            Services               Montgomery, WV for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Mount Vernon Neighborhood Health        635,000  Latimer
 Human Services            Services               Center, Inc., dba Westchester
                           Administration         Community Health Center, Mount
                                                  Vernon, NY for facilities and
                                                  equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Mountain Community Health             1,000,000  Edwards
 Human Services            Services               Partnership, Bakersville, NC for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Mountain Park Health Center,          2,000,000  Ansari
 Human Services            Services               Phoenix, AZ for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Mt. Enterprise Community Health         750,000  Moran
 Human Services            Services               Clinic, Mt. Enterprise, TX for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Mt. Graham Regional Medical             650,000  Ciscomani
 Human Services            Services               Center Inc., Safford, AZ for
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Municipality of Guayama, PR for       1,000,000  Hernandez
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Muskegon County, MI for               1,500,000  Scholten
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Native American Health Center,        1,000,000  Simon
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Oakland, CA for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Navarro County Ambulatory Care          350,000  Ellzey
 Human Services            Services               Association, Corsicana, TX for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Neighborhood Health Centers of          350,000  Mackenzie
 Human Services            Services               the Lehigh Valley, Bethlehem, PA
                           Administration         for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   NeoMed Center, Inc., Gurabo, PR       1,500,000  Hernandez
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Neosho Memorial Regional Medical        500,000  Schmidt
 Human Services            Services               Center, Chanute, KS for
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Newman Memorial Hospital,               250,000  Lucas
 Human Services            Services               Shattuck, OK for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Newton County, GA for equipment         500,000  Scott (GA)
 Human Services            Services
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   North Adams Regional Hospital,        1,705,000  Neal
 Human Services            Services               North Adams, MA for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   North Arkansas Regional Medical         150,000  Crawford
 Human Services            Services               Center, Harrison, AR for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   North Hudson Community Action           500,000  Menendez
 Human Services            Services               Corporation, Union City, NJ for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   North Shore Community Health,           500,000  Moulton
 Human Services            Services               Salem, MA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   North Texas Area Community Health       300,000  Veasey
 Human Services            Services               Centers, Inc., Forth Worth, TX
                           Administration         for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   North Texas Area Community Health       200,000  Veasey
 Human Services            Services               Centers, Inc., Forth Worth, TX
                           Administration         for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Northeast Community Clinic,             500,000  Lieu
 Human Services            Services               Harbor City, CA for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Nye County, NV for equipment          1,000,000  Horsford
 Human Services            Services
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Oak Orchard Community Health            700,000  Tenney
 Human Services            Services               Center, Inc., Brockport, NY for
                           Administration         facilities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Oak Orchard Community Health            500,000  Morelle
 Human Services            Services               Center, Inc., Brockport, NY for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Ochiltree Hospital District,          1,000,000  Jackson (TX)
 Human Services            Services               Perryton, TX for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Ohio County Hospital Corporation,     2,500,000  Guthrie
 Human Services            Services               Hartford, KY for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY       500,000  Langworthy
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Omni Family Health, Bakersfield,      1,250,000  Valadao
 Human Services            Services               CA for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   OSF HealthCare, Danville, IL for        500,000  Kelly (IL)
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Our Lady of the Lake Regional         1,000,000  Carter (LA)
 Human Services            Services               Medical Center, Baton Rouge, LA
                           Administration         for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Palm Beach County, FL for             1,390,000  Frankel
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Palmer Lutheran Health Center,          350,000  Hinson
 Human Services            Services               Inc., West Union, IA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   PanCare of Florida Inc., Panama         450,000  Dunn (FL)
 Human Services            Services               City, FL for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Park DuValle Community Health         1,092,000  McGarvey
 Human Services            Services               Center, Inc., Louisville, KY for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Pawhuska Hospital, Inc.,                250,000  Lucas
 Human Services            Services               Pawhuska, OK for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Peak Vista Community Health           1,300,000  Crank
 Human Services            Services               Centers, Colorado Springs, CO
                           Administration         for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Pender Memorial Hospital dba            750,000  Rouzer
 Human Services            Services               Novant Health Pender Medical
                           Administration         Center, Burgaw, NC for
                                                  facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   People's Community Clinic Inc.,         750,000  Casar
 Human Services            Services               Austin, TX for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Peoples Community Health Clinic,        275,000  Hinson
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Waterloo, IA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Petaluma Health Center, Petaluma,     1,000,000  Thompson (CA)
 Human Services            Services               CA for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Petersburg Medical Center,            2,000,000  Begich
 Human Services            Services               Petersburg, AK for facilities
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Phoebe Sumter Medical Center,           549,000  Bishop
 Human Services            Services               West Americus, GA for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Pikeville Medical Center, Inc.,       4,000,000  Rogers (KY)
 Human Services            Services               Pikeville, KY for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Plymouth County, MA for equipment       709,000  Keating
 Human Services            Services
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Pocahontas Memorial Hospital,           250,000  Miller (WV)
 Human Services            Services               Buckeye, WV for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Ponca Tribe of Nebraska, NE for         750,000  Bacon
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Preferred Family Healthcare dba         100,000  Alford
 Human Services            Services               Clarity Healthcare, Kirksville,
                           Administration         MO for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Premier Community HealthCare          1,500,000  Bilirakis
 Human Services            Services               Group, Inc., Dade City, FL for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Primary Care Medical Services of        500,000  Soto
 Human Services            Services               Poinciana, Inc., dba Osceola
                           Administration         Community Health Services,
                                                  Kissimmee, FL for facilities and
                                                  equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Prince George's County, MD for          500,000  Hoyer
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Progressive Community Health            257,000  Moore (WI)
 Human Services            Services               Centers, Inc., Milwaukee, WI for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Public Hospital District 1-A of         750,000  Baumgartner
 Human Services            Services               Whitman County, Pullman, WA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Raphael Health Center, Inc.,            140,000  Carson
 Human Services            Services               Indianapolis, IN for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Reedsburg Area Medical Center,          200,000  Van Orden
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Reedsburg, WI for
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Regional Health Services of           1,480,424  Hinson
 Human Services            Services               Howard County, Cresco, IA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Rhea County Hospital dba Rhea           250,000  DesJarlais
 Human Services            Services               Medical Center, Dayton, TN for
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Ridgecrest Regional Hospital,         1,321,904  Fong
 Human Services            Services               Ridgecrest, CA for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Riverview Healthcare Association,       549,000  Fischbach
 Human Services            Services               Crookston, MN for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Roane County Medical Center,          4,300,000  Fleischmann
 Human Services            Services               Harriman, TN for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Rochelle Community Hospital           1,500,000  LaHood
 Human Services            Services               Association, Rochelle, IL for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Russellville Hospital Inc.,           3,000,000  Aderholt
 Human Services            Services               Russellville, AL for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   SAC Health, San Bernardino, CA        1,500,000  Obernolte
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   SAC Health, San Bernardino, CA        2,000,000  Aguilar
 Human Services            Services               for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Saint Luke's Hospital of Trenton,       500,000  Graves
 Human Services            Services               Trenton, MO for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Saint Luke's Hospital of Allen          500,000  Schmidt
 Human Services            Services               County, Inc. dba Allen County
                           Administration         Regional Hospital, Iola, KS for
                                                  equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Saint Thomas Regional Hospitals,        250,000  DesJarlais
 Human Services            Services               McMinnville, TN for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Salud Integral en la Montana,           500,000  Hernandez
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Naranjito, PR for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   San Benito Health Foundation,         1,250,000  Lofgren
 Human Services            Services               Hollister, CA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   San Fernando Community Hospital         500,000  Rivas
 Human Services            Services               dba San Fernando Community
                           Administration         Health Center, San Fernando, CA
                                                  for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Santa Fe County, NM for                 750,000  Leger
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment                         Fernandez
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Santo Nino Health Center,               217,000  Rivas
 Human Services            Services               Panorama City, CA for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Schneider Regional Medical              750,000  Plaskett
 Human Services            Services               Center, St. Thomas, VI for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Schneider Regional Medical              750,000  Plaskett
 Human Services            Services               Center, St. Thomas, VI for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Schneider Regional Medical              500,000  Plaskett
 Human Services            Services               Center, St. Thomas, VI for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Scott & White Hospital--Marble        3,000,000  Carter (TX)
 Human Services            Services               Falls dba Baylor Scott & White
                           Administration         Medical Center--Marble Falls,
                                                  Dallas, TX for facilities and
                                                  equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Sharon Regional Medical Center,         250,000  Kelly (PA)
 Human Services            Services               Sharon, PA for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Sheridan Community Hospital,          4,000,000  Moolenaar
 Human Services            Services               Sheridan, MI for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   South Central Family Health             750,000  Sanchez
 Human Services            Services               Center, Los Angeles, CA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Southern California Medical             250,000  Cisneros
 Human Services            Services               Center Inc., Van Nuys, CA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Southern Humboldt Community             250,000  Huffman
 Human Services            Services               Healthcare District,
                           Administration         Garberville, CA for facilities
                                                  and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Spring Branch Community Health        1,300,000  Menefee,
 Human Services            Services               Center, Houston, TX for                          Garcia (TX)
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   St. Francis House NWA, Inc. dba       1,026,948  Womack
 Human Services            Services               Community Clinic, Springdale, AR
                           Administration         for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   St. John's Bread and Life               400,000  Jeffries
 Human Services            Services               Program, Inc., Brooklyn, NY for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   St. Louis County, MO for                250,000  Bell
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   St. Mary's Healthcare, Amsterdam,       750,000  Tonko
 Human Services            Services               NY for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   St. Thomas East End Medical           1,000,000  Plaskett
 Human Services            Services               Center Corporation, St. Thomas,
                           Administration         VI for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   St. Vincent Randolph Hospital,          150,000  Stutzman
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Winchester, IN for
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   State of Delaware for facilities        250,000  McBride
 Human Services            Services               and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   State of Louisiana for facilities       250,000  Carter (LA)
 Human Services            Services               and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   State of Louisiana for facilities       250,000  Carter (LA)
 Human Services            Services               and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   State of New Mexico for equipment       500,000  Stansbury
 Human Services            Services
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   State of Rhode Island,                  250,000  Amo
 Human Services            Services               Providence, RI for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Steele Memorial Medical Center,       2,000,000  Simpson
 Human Services            Services               Salmon, ID for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Stephen F. Austin Community             500,000  Nehls
 Human Services            Services               Health Center Inc., Pearland, TX
                           Administration         for equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Stillwater Medical Center               250,000  Lucas
 Human Services            Services               Authority, Stillwater, OK for
                           Administration         facilities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   STRIDE Community Health Center,         365,000  Crow
 Human Services            Services               Aurora, CO for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   STRIDE Community Health Center,         814,000  DeGette
 Human Services            Services               Wheat Ridge, CO for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Su Clinica Familiar, Harlingen,         580,000  Gonzalez
 Human Services            Services               TX for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Sullivan County Memorial              2,500,000  Graves
 Human Services            Services               Hospital, Milan, MO for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Sun Life Family Health Center           500,000  Ciscomani
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Casa Grande, AZ for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Sweetwater Hospital Association,      1,800,000  Fleischmann
 Human Services            Services               Sweetwater, TN for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Swope Health Services, Kansas           500,000  Schmidt
 Human Services            Services               City, MO for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   T.H.E. Clinic, Inc. dba To Help         750,000  Kamlager-Dove
 Human Services            Services               Everyone Health and Wellness,
                           Administration         Los Angeles, CA for facilities
                                                  and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Tampa Family Health Centers,          2,000,000  Castor (FL)
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Tampa, FL for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   TCC Family Health, Long Beach, CA       750,000  Barragan
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Texas Health Harris Methodist         1,500,000  Williams (TX)
 Human Services            Services               Hospital Stephenville,
                           Administration         Stephenville, TX for facilities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   The Asian Americans for Community       500,000  Liccardo
 Human Services            Services               Involvement of Santa Clara
                           Administration         County, Inc., San Jose, CA for
                                                  facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   The Brevard Health Alliance,          1,500,000  Haridopolos
 Human Services            Services               Inc., West Melbourne, FL for
                           Administration         facilities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   The C.W. Williams Community             910,000  Adams
 Human Services            Services               Health Center, Inc., Charlotte,
                           Administration         NC for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   The C.W. Williams Community              15,000  Adams
 Human Services            Services               Health Center, Inc., Charlotte,
                           Administration         NC for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   The Center for Health Education,      2,500,000  Smith (NJ)
 Human Services            Services               Medicine, & Dentistry, Lakewood,
                           Administration         NJ for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   The City of Buffalo, NY for             750,000  Kennedy (NY)
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   The City of Mobile, AL for              250,000  Figures
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   The City of New York, NY for            750,000  Ocasio-Cortez
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   The HealthCare Connection, Inc,         750,000  Landsman
 Human Services            Services               Cincinnati, OH for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   The Joseph P. Addabbo Family            500,000  Meeks
 Human Services            Services               Health Center, Inc., Arverne, NY
                           Administration         for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   The Troy Hospital Healthcare          2,000,000  Figures
 Human Services            Services               Authority dba Troy Regional
                           Administration         Medical Center, Troy, AL for
                                                  facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   The University of Houston Family      1,000,000  Menefee
 Human Services            Services               Care Center, Houston, TX for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   The Washington County Healthcare        750,000  Figures
 Human Services            Services               Authority, Inc., Chatom, AL for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   The West Oakland Health Council         750,000  Simon
 Human Services            Services               dba Baywell Health, Oakland, CA
                           Administration         for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Thunder Bay Community Health            500,000  Bergman
 Human Services            Services               Service, Inc., Alpena, MI for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Town of Alstead, NH for equipment       500,000  Goodlander
 Human Services            Services
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Town of Glocester, RI for               250,000  Magaziner
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Town of Greenwich, CT for               500,000  Himes
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Town of Jackman, ME for                 500,000  Golden (ME)
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Town of Ramapo, NY for equipment      3,000,000  Lawler
 Human Services            Services
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Township of Berwyn, IL for            1,000,000  Garcia (IL)
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Township of Hainesport, NJ for          382,000  Conaway
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Tristate Community Health Center,       250,000  Cohen
 Human Services            Services               Memphis, TN for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Unified Government of Wyandotte       1,000,000  Davids (KS)
 Human Services            Services               County/Kansas City, Kansas, KS
                           Administration         for equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   United Neighborhood Health            1,000,000  Rose (TN)
 Human Services            Services               Services, Inc., Nashville, TN
                           Administration         for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Unity Healthcare dba Trinity          2,000,000  Miller-Meeks
 Human Services            Services               Muscatine, Muscatine, IA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   University Muslim Medical               170,000  Waters
 Human Services            Services               Association, Inc., Los Angeles,
                           Administration         CA for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   University Muslim Medical             1,000,000  Kamlager-Dove
 Human Services            Services               Association, Inc., Los Angeles,
                           Administration         CA for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   University of Maryland Charles          650,000  Hoyer
 Human Services            Services               Regional Medical Center, La
                           Administration         Plata, MD for facilities and
                                                  equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   UPMC Bedford, Everette, PA for          223,000  Joyce (PA)
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   UPMC Chautauqua, Jamestown, NY          300,000  Langworthy
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   UPMC Greene, Waynesburg, PA for         500,000  Reschenthaler
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   UPMC Muncy, Williamsport, PA for        500,000  Meuser
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   UPMC Somerset, Somerset, PA for         500,000  Reschenthaler
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Upper Great Lakes Family Health       1,250,000  Bergman
 Human Services            Services               Care, Gwinn, MI for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   UT Medical Center dba University        200,000  Rose (TN)
 Human Services            Services               Health System, Inc., Knoxville,
                           Administration         TN for facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Valle del Sol, Phoenix, AZ for        1,000,000  Ansari
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Valle del Sol, Phoenix, AZ for          500,000  Ansari
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Valle del Sol, Phoenix, AZ for          500,000  Ansari
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Valle del Sol, Phoenix, AZ for          250,000  Stanton
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Valley Health Partners,                 650,000  Mackenzie
 Human Services            Services               Allentown, PA for facilities
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Valley Health Systems Inc.,             250,000  Miller (WV)
 Human Services            Services               Huntington, WV for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Van Buren County Hospital,            2,000,000  Miller-Meeks
 Human Services            Services               Keosauqua, IA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Venice Family Clinic, Venice, CA        500,000  Waters
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Via Care Community Health Center,       750,000  Gomez
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Los Angeles, CA for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Village of La Grange, IL for            450,000  Garcia (IL)
 Human Services            Services               equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Village of North Baltimore--            250,000  Latta
 Human Services            Services               Westhaven Community Health
                           Administration         Clinic, North Baltimore, OH for
                                                  facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   VIP Community Services, Bronx, NY       500,000  Torres (NY)
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Wai'anae Coast Comprehensive          1,859,000  Case
 Human Services            Services               Health Center, Waianae, HI for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Waikiki Health, Honolulu, HI for        395,000  Case
 Human Services            Services               facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Watts Healthcare Corporation, Los     2,000,000  Waters
 Human Services            Services               Angeles, CA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Watts Healthcare Corporation, Los       750,000  Kamlager-Dove
 Human Services            Services               Angeles, CA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Wayne Community Health Centers        1,000,000  Maloy
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Bicknell, UT for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Wayne County Hospital, Corydon,       1,500,000  Nunn (IA)
 Human Services            Services               IA for facilities
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Wayne Memorial Hospital,              1,000,000  Bresnahan
 Human Services            Services               Honesdale, PA for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   WellSpace Health, Sacramento, CA        750,000  Matsui
 Human Services            Services               for facilities and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Wesley Community Centers Inc.,          750,000  Ansari
 Human Services            Services               Phoenix, AZ for facilities and
                           Administration         equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   West Hawaii Region of Hawaii            500,000  Tokuda
 Human Services            Services               Health Systems Corporation,
                           Administration         Kealakekua, HI for facilities
                                                  and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Westchester-Ellenville Hospital,        250,000  Riley
 Human Services            Services               Inc., Ellenville, NY for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Wilmington Community Clinic,            250,000  Barragan
 Human Services            Services               Wilmington, CA for facilities
                           Administration         and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Wood County Community Health            500,000  Kaptur
 Human Services            Services               Center, Bowling Green, OH for
                           Administration         facilities and equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Wood County Hospital, Green, OH         500,000  Latta
 Human Services            Services               for equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Wyoming County, PA for equipment        250,000  Meuser
 Human Services            Services
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Health and  Health Resources and   Zapata County, TX for facilities      1,000,000  Cuellar
 Human Services            Services               and equipment
                           Administration
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------




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