This week, I had the opportunity to join long-term care leaders from across the country in Washington, D.C. for the 2026 AHCA/NCAL Congressional Briefings.
During meetings with Rhode Island’s Congressional delegation, including Senator Jack Reed, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, Representative Seth Magaziner, and Representative Gabe Amo, I advocated on behalf of Rhode Island’s skilled nursing facilities and the residents they serve. A special thank you to Norman Norton, VP of Operations for Marquis Health Consulting Services, for joining in two of the visits.
John joined fellow long-term and post-acute care advocates in Washington, D.C., to urge lawmakers to support and advance several bipartisan, bicameral legislative priorities aimed at improving access to care and strengthening services for older adults and individuals requiring post-acute care.
Among the key initiatives discussed were:
Advocates also discussed the potential long-term impact of Medicaid funding reductions contained in One Big Beautiful Bill Act. While many of the proposed changes would not take effect immediately, participants emphasized the importance of protecting Medicaid as the primary payer for long-term care services and identified future advocacy efforts to address the impact of these reductions on states, providers, and vulnerable seniors.
These issues remain among the highest federal legislative priorities for the long-term care profession as providers work to ensure continued access to quality care for America’s aging population.
I appreciate the opportunity to share the experiences and concerns of Rhode Island’s long-term care community and remain committed to advancing policies that strengthen care for our seniors and support the dedicated professionals who serve them every day.
