Department of Health and Human Services

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the fludeoxyglucose F18-guided radiation therapy system into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the fludeoxyglucose F18-guided radiation therapy system. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or we) received objections and requests for a public hearing submitted by Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC, on behalf of Micro-Tracers, Inc. (Micro-Tracers or objector), on the order granting a color additive petition (3C0323) requesting that we repeal specified regulations to no longer provide for the safe use of FD&C Red No. 3 in food (including dietary supplements) and ingested drugs. After reviewing the objections, we have concluded that the objections do not raise issues of material fact that justify a hearing. We are also providing notice that the administrative stay of the effective date for the repeal and delisting of the color additive regulations is now lifted.

This final rule will revise the Medicare hospital inpatient prospective payment systems (IPPS) for operating and capital-related costs of acute care hospitals; make changes relating to Medicare graduate medical education (GME) for teaching hospitals; update the payment policies and the annual payment rates for the Medicare prospective payment system (PPS) for inpatient hospital services provided by long-term care hospitals (LTCHs); update and make changes to requirements for certain quality programs; and make other policy- related changes. ONC also adopts certain health information technology (health IT) standards and specifications on behalf of HHS.

This final rule updates the hospice wage index, payment rates, and aggregate cap amount for fiscal year 2027. This final rule also includes an analysis of Medicare non-hospice spending, including details regarding a hospice service and spending variation index, and finalizes the requirement that hospices provide the hospice election statement addendum to all Medicare beneficiaries at the time of hospice election. Additionally, this rule finalizes conforming changes to discharge from hospice care regulations and changes to the face-to-face encounter regulations. This final rule also includes a summary of comments received on our requests for information regarding community- based palliative care; the construction of a hospice specific wage index; and the overlap between hospice and medical aid in dying laws. Finally, this rule finalizes changes to the Hospice Quality Reporting Program.

This final rule removes duplicative and unnecessary sections from the Family Violence Prevention and Services Program regulations. These amendments will streamline the Family Violence Prevention and Services regulations and make them more accessible to the public.

This final rule updates the prospective payment rates for inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRFs) for Federal fiscal year (FY) 2027. As required by statute, this final rule includes the classification and weighting factors for the IRF prospective payment system's (PPS) case-mix groups and a description of the methodologies and data used in computing the prospective payment rates for FY 2027. It also finalizes the third and final of the 3-year phaseout of the rural adjustment, which began in FY 2025. This final rule includes a solicitation for public comments on alternative data sources for the IRF PPS wage index; requires all therapy treatments and/or therapy evaluations to begin no later than 36 hours from midnight on the day of admission; finalizes requirements for the initial Interdisciplinary Team meeting to occur on or before 4 days from the date the patient is admitted; and summarizes a request for information on potential future IRF PPS payment reform. Additionally, this final rule includes updates to the IRF Quality Reporting Program and changes to the Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) Competitive Bidding Program.

This final rule updates the prospective payment rates, the outlier threshold, and the wage index for Medicare inpatient hospital services provided by Inpatient Psychiatric Facilities (IPFs), which include psychiatric hospitals and excluded psychiatric units of an acute care hospital or critical access hospital. This final rule also refines the Inpatient Psychiatric Facilities Prospective Payment System (IPF PPS) outlier policy. These changes will be effective for IPF discharges occurring during the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2027. We are also finalizing the implementation of a standardized IPF patient assessment instrument, and removing two measures used in the Inpatient Psychiatric Facilities Quality Reporting Program.

This final rule amends the Grants to States for Public Assistance Programs regulations, the General Administration--State Plans and Grant Appeals regulations, the General Administration--Public Assistance Programs regulations, the Training and Use of Subprofessionals and Volunteers regulations, the Coverage and Conditions of Eligibility in Financial Assistance Programs regulations, the Financial Assistance to Individuals regulations, the Administration of Financial Assistance Programs regulations, the Fiscal Administration of Financial Assistance Programs regulations, the General Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Provisions regulations, the Ensuring That Recipients Work regulations, the Accountability Provisions--General regulations, the Expenditures of State and Federal TANF Funds regulations, the Other Accountability Provisions regulations, the Data Collection and Reporting Requirements regulations, the High Performance Bonus Awards regulations, the Implementation of Section 403(a)(2) of the Social Security Act Bonus to Reward Decrease in Illegitimacy Ratio regulations, the Methodology for Determining Whether an Increase in a State or Territory's Child Poverty Rate Is the Result of the TANF Program regulations, the Tribal TANF Provisions regulations, and The Native Employment Works (NEW) Program regulations to eliminate unnecessary or obsolete regulations. A plain language summary of the final rule is posted at https:// www.regulations.gov.

This final rule finalizes changes and updates to the policies and payment rates used under the Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Prospective Payment System (PPS) for fiscal year (FY) 2027. This final rule also updates the requirements for the SNF Quality Reporting Program and the SNF Value-Based Purchasing Program.

This document announces updates to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) codes on the Master List. It also announces updates to the HCPCS codes on the Required Face-to-Face Encounter and Written Order Prior to Delivery List and the Required Prior Authorization List.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the phase-changing fiducial marker for radiation therapy into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the phase-changing fiducial marker for radiation therapy. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the active noise attenuation system for infant incubators into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the active noise attenuation system for infant incubators. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the non- medicated topical formulation for treatment of erectile dysfunction into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the non-medicated topical formulation for treatment of erectile dysfunction. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

By this rule, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services amends its regulations implementing Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI) to remove provisions that impose or exemplify liability based on disparate impact. These amendments align the Department's regulations with the best reading of Title VI's statutory text, avoid constitutional concerns, reduce compliance costs and uncertainty for recipients, and serve the public interest. In addition, these revisions conform to Executive Order 14281.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the intraoperative surgical angle measurement tool into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the intraoperative surgical angle measurement tool. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the diabetes digital behavioral therapeutic device into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the diabetes digital behavioral therapeutic device. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the over-the-counter test to detect SARS-CoV-2 from clinical specimens into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the over-the-counter test to detect SARS-CoV-2 from clinical specimens. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the prognostic test for assessment of chronic kidney disease progression into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the prognostic test for assessment of chronic kidney disease progression. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or we) is issuing an order to repeal the color additive regulation that allows for the use of Orange B for coloring the casings or surfaces of frankfurters and sausages. We have determined that the authorized use of Orange B has been abandoned, and we have concluded that this color additive regulation is outdated and unnecessary. Therefore, FDA is revoking the authorized use in food of Orange B in the color additive regulations.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS or the Department) rescinds the Guidelines for Eliminating Discrimination and Denial of Services on the Basis of Race, Color, National Origin, Sex, and Handicap in Vocational Education Programs (Guidelines). The Department also makes conforming amendments by removing cross- references to the Guidelines in its regulations. The Guidelines were developed and issued by HHS's predecessor, the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare (HEW), in 1979 in response to litigation concerning HEW's enforcement of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and a then-existing Federal vocational education program structure. Following the establishment of the U.S. Department of Education (ED) in 1980, administration of Federal vocational education programs, and the associated civil rights compliance framework for those programs detailed in the Guidelines, transferred to ED. HHS does not administer the vocational education program structure contemplated by the Guidelines and does not use the Guidelines as an ongoing compliance mechanism. The continued presence of the Guidelines in the Code of Federal Regulations creates a risk of confusion regarding HHS's current enforceable nondiscrimination obligations. Rescinding the Guidelines and removing the associated cross-references promotes regulatory clarity without altering any HHS funding recipient's substantive obligations under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, or section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

This document corrects typographical errors in the final rule that appeared in the May 20, 2026, Federal Register titled "Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2027; and Basic Health Program."

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or we) is issuing a final rule to amend the standard of identity for pasteurized orange juice by lowering the minimum orange juice soluble solids content from 10.5[deg] to 10[deg] Brix and permitting up to 15 percent Citrus reticulata juice or Citrus reticulata hybrid juice, by volume. This final rule modernizes the pasteurized orange juice standard. This action responds to two citizen petitions: one submitted by the Florida Citrus Processors Association Inc. and the Florida Citrus Mutual Inc., and another submitted by the Florida Department of Citrus, the Florida Citrus Mutual, and the Juice Products Association.

This rule finalizes the removal of the requirements issued in the Designated Placement Requirements Under Titles IV-E and IV-B for LGBTQI+ Children final rule that was published on April 30, 2024 (hereafter referred to as the 2024 final rule). The 2024 final rule required title IV-E/IV-B agencies to ensure that a Designated Placement is available for all children who self-identify with an alternative sexual orientation or self-identify as something other than their sex in foster care who request or would benefit from such a placement. Those requirements were never implemented as a result of the decision from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas that vacated the 2024 final rule in its entirety. To ensure clarity for the public and regulated entities, ACF is removing the provisions from the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or we) is amending the animal drug regulations to reflect application-related actions for new animal drug applications (NADAs), abbreviated new animal drug applications (ANADAs), and conditionally approved new animal drug applications (CNADAs) during January, February, and March 2026. The animal drug regulations are also being amended to improve their accuracy and readability.

This final rule removes duplicative and unnecessary sections from the Runaway and Homeless Youth Program regulations. These amendments will streamline the Runaway and Homeless Youth Program regulations to make them more accessible to the public.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the monitor for opioid induced impairment of oxygenation into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the monitor for opioid induced impairment of oxygenation. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the skin patch for treatment of hyperhidrosis into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the skin patch for treatment of hyperhidrosis. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the medial knee implanted shock absorber into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the medial knee implanted shock absorber. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the infant supine sleep system into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the infant supine sleep system. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the external lower extremity nerve stimulator for Restless Legs Syndrome into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the external lower extremity nerve stimulator for Restless Legs Syndrome. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the breast implant suction retrieval system into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the breast implant suction retrieval system. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the SARS-CoV-2 serology test into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the SARS- CoV-2 serology test. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the computerized behavioral therapy device for the treatment of fibromyalgia symptoms into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the computerized behavioral therapy device for the treatment of fibromyalgia symptoms. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the prognostic test for development or progression of preeclampsia into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the prognostic test for development or progression of preeclampsia. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the foam or gel chemical sterilant/high level disinfectant into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the foam or gel chemical sterilant/high level disinfectant. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the endoscopic traction device into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the endoscopic traction device. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the endoscopic light-projecting measuring device into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the endoscopic light-projecting measuring device. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the simple in vitro diagnostic device for the detection of secreted proteins from Bacillus species (spp.) in human clinical samples into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the simple in vitro diagnostic device for the detection of secreted proteins from Bacillus species (spp.) in human clinical samples. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families amends the Native American Programs Act regulations to eliminate unnecessary or obsolete regulations.

This final rule amends the Care and Treatment of Mentally Ill Nationals of the United States, Returned from Foreign Countries regulations and the Assistance for United States Citizens Returned from Foreign Countries regulations to eliminate unnecessary or obsolete regulations.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the radiological machine learning-based quantitative imaging software with predetermined change control plan into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the radiological machine learning-based quantitative imaging software with predetermined change control plan. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the ingestible gastrointestinal blood detection capsule into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the ingestible gastrointestinal blood detection capsule. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

This final rule with comment period sets forth provisions to strengthen the oversight of Medicare national accrediting organizations by addressing conflicts of interest, establishing consistent standards, processes, and definitions, and updating the validation and performance standards systems. Additionally, this final rule with comment period revises the psychiatric hospital survey process, adds a limitation on terminated deemed providers and suppliers when reentering the program, and provides technical corrections for End-Stage Renal Disease facilities and Transplant Programs.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA, the Agency, or we) is amending its regulations to direct the public to organizational and contact information available on the Agency's website. FDA is also revoking certain regulations that are no longer necessary in light of this amendment. These changes are appropriate to provide the public with a uniform source of Agency organizational and contact information that can be readily updated as needed in the future.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the Spinal Muscular Atrophy newborn screening test system into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the Spinal Muscular Atrophy newborn screening test system. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the simple point-of-care device to directly detect SARS-CoV-2 viral targets from clinical specimens in near-patient settings into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the simple point-of-care device to directly detect SARS-CoV-2 viral targets from clinical specimens in near-patient settings. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the combined acoustic and electrical external stimulation device for the relief of tinnitus into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the combined acoustic and electrical external stimulation device for the relief of tinnitus. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

This Final Rule amends the Block Grants regulations, the Individual Development Account Reserve Funds Established Pursuant to Grants for Assets for Independence regulations, and the Emergency Community Services Homeless Grant Program regulations to eliminate unnecessary or obsolete regulations. A plain language summary of this final rule is posted at https://www.regulations.gov.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the resorbable calcium salt bone void filler containing a single approved aminoglycoside antibacterial into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the product type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the resorbable calcium salt bone void filler containing a single approved aminoglycoside antibacterial. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the product into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the product. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative products, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the shoulder joint humeral (hemi-shoulder) ceramic head/metallic stem cemented or uncemented prosthesis into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the shoulder joint humeral (hemi-shoulder) ceramic head/metallic stem cemented or uncemented prosthesis. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the absorbable metallic bone fixation fastener into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the absorbable metallic bone fixation fastener. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or we) is amending the final rule that published in the Federal Register of April 16, 2026. That final rule updated regulations to reflect application-related actions for new animal drug applications and abbreviated new animal drug applications during October, November, and December of 2025. The final rule published with some inadvertent errors in the instructions for technical amendments. This document corrects those errors.

This interim final rule with comment period (IFC) interprets and implements the community engagement requirement in Medicaid under section 1902(xx) of the Social Security Act. States are required to implement the new requirement no later than January 1, 2027. This IFC specifies the requirements and expectations for States, including the Medicaid applicants and beneficiaries who must demonstrate community engagement as a condition of their eligibility, the types of qualifying activities that satisfy the community engagement requirement, the criteria to meet an exception from the requirement (that is, be deemed compliant), and the criteria to meet a specified exclusion from the requirement. It also specifies requirements for verification of qualifying activities, outreach to affected populations, steps States must take if they determine individuals are noncompliant, and additional operational considerations for States. Finally, this IFC specifies implementation timing and establishes new State reporting requirements.

This is to inform the public that, on October 22, 2025, the United States District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi issued an order in Tennessee v. Kennedy, No. 1:24-cv-161-LG-BWR (S.D. Miss. Oct. 22, 2025), vacating portions of the final rule titled "Nondiscrimination in Health Programs and Activities," published May 6, 2024 (89 FR 37522). Specifically, the court vacated certain provisions of the regulation to the extent they expand Title IX's definition of sex discrimination to include gender-identity discrimination. Pursuant to the court's order, the vacated provisions are legally void. The other provisions of the Section 1557 Rule remain in force.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the rigid sterilization container with electronic monitoring into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the rigid sterilization container with electronic monitoring. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the real-time ultrasound anatomy visualization and labeling device for ultrasound guided regional anesthesia into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the real-time ultrasound anatomy visualization and labeling device for ultrasound guided regional anesthesia. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the adjunctive pain measurement device for anesthesiology into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the adjunctive pain measurement device for anesthesiology. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the orally ingested transient device for constipation into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the orally ingested transient device for constipation. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the intraoral cooling device into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the intraoral cooling device. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the von Willebrand factor assay into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the von Willebrand factor assay. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the oropharyngeal electrical stimulator into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the oropharyngeal electrical stimulator. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

This final rule will update and revise the Increasing Organ Transplant Access (IOTA) Model for Performance Year (PY) 2. This final rule also includes a technical correction to the regulatory text.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator to treat fibromyalgia symptoms into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator to treat fibromyalgia symptoms. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the endoscopic suturing device for altering gastric anatomy for weight loss into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the endoscopic suturing device for altering gastric anatomy for weight loss. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issues this interim final rule with request for comments to amend its Foreign Quarantine Regulations. This interim final rule provides a procedure for the Secretary acting through the CDC Director or other delegate to suspend the introduction of persons from designated countries or places, if required, in the interest of public health.

This final rule contains provisions to improve implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, including payment parameters and provisions related to the HHS-operated risk adjustment and risk adjustment data validation (HHS-RADV) programs, as well as 2027 user fee rates for issuers offering qualified health plans (QHPs) through Federally-facilitated Exchanges (FFEs) and State-based Exchanges on the Federal platform (SBE-FPs). This final rule also includes provisions related to civil money penalties (CMPs) for noncompliant issuers and other responsible entities; standards governing agents, brokers, and web-brokers; the expansion and codification of hardship exemption eligibility; implementation of the State Exchange Improper Payment Measurement (SEIPM); provider access standards and essential community provider standards for QHP certification; QHP certification of non-network plans; a prohibition on issuers from including routine non-pediatric dental services as an Essential Health Benefit (EHB); requirements related to defrayal for the cost of any State-required benefits in addition to the EHB; cost- sharing flexibilities for catastrophic and individual market bronze plans; establishment of catastrophic plans with plan terms of up to 10 consecutive plan years; QHP issuer quality improvement strategies (QISs); and revisions affecting which enrollees are included in Federal Basic Health Program (BHP) payment calculations to States. This final rule also includes amendments to implement certain provisions of the Working Families Tax Cut (WFTC) legislation.

This final rule amends the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) regulations to reduce costs and burden for States and Territories administering the CCDF program. It rescinds the requirements to limit family co-payments to 7 percent of family income, to provide some direct services through grants or contracts, to pay providers prospectively, and to pay providers based on enrollment. A plain language summary of this final rule is posted at https:// www.regulations.gov/document/ACF-2026-0001-0002.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the device to detect and identify microorganism nucleic acids and resistance markers from patients with suspected orthopedic infection into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the device to detect and identify microorganism nucleic acids and resistance markers from patients with suspected orthopedic infection. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

By this interim final rule ("IFR"), the Department of Health and Human Services ("Department") is revising the Department's regulations implementing section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act ("section 504") to extend the compliance dates for the requirements for web content and mobile application ("app") accessibility that were adopted on May 9, 2024. The compliance date for recipients with fifteen (15) or more employees is extended from May 11, 2026, to May 11, 2027. The compliance date for recipients with fewer than fifteen (15) employees is extended from May 10, 2027, to May 10, 2028.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is classifying the external condom for anal intercourse or vaginal intercourse into class II (special controls). The special controls that apply to the device type are identified in this order and will be part of the codified language for classification of the external condom for anal intercourse or vaginal intercourse. We are taking this action because we have determined that classifying the device into class II will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. We believe this action will also enhance patients' access to beneficial innovative devices, in part by reducing regulatory burdens.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is proposing to reclassify digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) systems, product code OTE, which are postamendments class III devices, from class III (premarket approval) into class II (special controls), subject to premarket notification. FDA is also proposing a new device classification regulation with the name "Digital Breast Tomosynthesis System," to identify these devices along with special controls that FDA believes are necessary to provide a reasonable assurance of the safety and effectiveness of these devices.

This NPRM proposes to rescind and replace the Head Start Program Performance Standards (Performance Standards), last revised in 2024. The proposed Performance Standards would significantly reduce Federal bureaucratic burden on programs; defer to State policies wherever possible; return substantial local control to Head Start agencies delivering the services and to parents as the primary caregivers and decision-makers for their children; reduce unnecessary duplication of Head Start regulations with Federal statute and other regulations; and emphasize the critical role of health, nutrition, and physical exercise for young children.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or the Agency) is reopening the comment period for the proposed rule that appeared in the Federal Register of May 6, 2026, to modify certain terminology in Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) to comply with Executive Order (E.O.) 14168, "Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government," issued on January 20, 2025. Specifically, this proposed rule, if finalized, will remove the term "gender" wherever it appears and either replace it with the term "sex," or delete reference to gender, as applicable, along with other editorial changes to improve readability. The Agency is taking this action to allow interested persons additional time to submit comments.

This document withdraws a proposed rule that was published in the Federal Register on January 31, 2005. The proposed rule would have amended the regulations for Child and Family Services with respect to title IV-E administrative costs and eligibility determinations and re- determinations for title IV-E foster care recipients and foster care "candidates" to implement title IV-E foster care eligibility and administrative cost provisions in sections 472 and 474 of the Social Security Act (the Act) and incorporates previously issued policy guidance.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or we) is announcing that we have filed a food additive petition, submitted by Evonik Corporation, proposing that we amend our food additive regulations to provide for the safe use of ethyl cellulose as a binder and coating on amino acids incorporated into food for ruminant animals.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or we) is proposing to issue an order that would repeal the color additive regulation that allows for the use of Citrus Red No. 2 for coloring the skins of mature oranges. Based on certification data, it appears that Citrus Red No. 2 is no longer used for coloring the skins of oranges and has not been certified for use as a color additive in food marketed in the United States since 2020. Because the authorized use of Citrus Red No. 2 appears to have been abandoned, we have tentatively concluded that this color additive regulation is outdated and unnecessary.

This proposed rule would revise standards for determining whether an indirect hold harmless arrangement exists for a health care- related tax. This proposed rule is necessary to implement a provision in the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," herein referred to as the "Working Families Tax Cut (WFTC) legislation," which established new indirect hold harmless thresholds for health care-related taxes. Currently, the threshold for a State's collection of tax revenues is no more than 6 percent of net patient revenue attributable to the assessed permissible class of health care items or services. Effective October 1, 2026, the WFTC legislation generally sets the threshold equal to the applicable percent of net patient revenue attributable to taxes imposed as of July 4, 2025. Effective October 1, 2027, the WFTC legislation also requires a phase down of the hold harmless threshold in expansion States. Apart from establishing the new threshold in regulation and proposing related changes and enhancements to existing processes, we propose to sunset a secondary prong to the indirect hold harmless determination to ensure the thresholds determined as of July 4, 2025, serve as the maximum permissible level. Finally, this rule proposes to add a new permissible class to enhance CMS oversight of health care- related taxes.

Clinical laboratory testing technology has advanced significantly since the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) regulations were implemented in 1992. This request for information (RFI) seeks input from the public regarding various topics related to the CLIA regulations, including: breath testing; laboratory processes and procedures; emergency preparedness, biosafety and biosecurity, and cybersecurity; and specialty testing areas. Responses to this RFI may be used to help inform CMS and the CDC as to what types of action, if any, should be taken to update the existing CLIA regulations through future notice and comment rulemaking.

This proposed rule addresses: changes to the physician fee schedule (PFS); other changes to Medicare Part B payment policies to ensure that payment systems are updated to reflect changes in medical practice, relative value of services, and changes in the statute; codification of establishment of new policies for: the Medicare Prescription Drug Inflation Rebate Program under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022; the Ambulatory Specialty Model; updates to drugs and biological products paid under Part B; Medicare Shared Savings Program requirements; updates to the Quality Payment Program; updates to policies for Rural Health Clinics and Federally Qualified Health Centers; update to the Ambulance Fee Schedule regulations; codification of the Inflation Reduction Act and Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 provisions; updates to Clinical Laboratory Fee Schedule regulations; updates to the Medicare Promoting Interoperability Program.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA, the Agency, or we) is proposing to amend the drug establishment registration and drug listing requirements with respect to establishments engaged in distributed manufacturing and foreign drug establishments. This action, if finalized, will provide a pathway for a distributed manufacturing establishment that manufactures drugs at multiple different physical locations to register as a single drug manufacturing establishment and align drug establishment registration and drug listing regulations applicable to foreign drug establishments with statutory changes made by the Preparing for and Responding to Existing Viruses, Emerging New Threats, and Pandemics Act (PREVENT Pandemics Act).

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), in consultation with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is proposing to rescind the existing regulation concerning grants under the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Clinical Cancer Education Program because the regulation is obsolete and no longer necessary.

This proposed rule would revise the Medicare Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) and the Medicare Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) payment system for calendar year 2027 based on our continuing experience with these systems. We also describe the changes to the amounts and factors used to determine the payment rates for Medicare services paid under the OPPS and those paid under the ASC payment systems. In addition, this proposed rule would update and refine the requirements for the Hospital Outpatient Quality Reporting Program and the Ambulatory Surgical Center Quality Reporting Program. There are no changes to the Rural Emergency Hospital Quality Reporting Program. We propose to expand the prior authorization requirement to include additional Botulinum Toxin Injection services. We also propose to implement certain provisions of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026, for off-campus outpatient departments of a provider. In addition, this proposed rule announces notices of closure of teaching hospitals and opportunities to apply for available slots. This rule also requests information regarding potential approaches to improve comparability and standardization, particularly for complex contracting methodologies, of the HPT information reported in machine- readable files and consumer-friendly displays. We propose hospital AOs with deeming authority to assess compliance with certain Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) administrative requirements during accreditation and reaccreditation surveys. Finally, we are soliciting comments on a potential separate payment under the Inpatient Prospective Payment System (IPPS) for domestic procurement of personal protective equipment and essential medicines.

This proposed rule would set forth routine updates to the Medicare home health payment rates in accordance with existing statutory and regulatory requirements. In addition, this proposed rule discusses the behavior adjustment and proposes a temporary behavior adjustment and proposes to recalibrate the case-mix weights and update the functional impairment levels; comorbidity subgroups; and low- utilization payment adjustment (LUPA) thresholds for CY 2027. Additionally, this proposed rule discusses the provision of home health palliative care services and includes a request for information (RFI) on a home health specific wage index. This rule would also propose changes to the Home Health Quality Reporting Program (HH QRP) and summarizes potential initiatives to improve alignment between the HH QRP and expanded Home Health Value Based Purchasing (HHVBP) Model. Lastly, the rule would--clarify the application of the DMEPOS face-to- face encounter requirements for the replacement of DMEPOS items; make changes to the provider and supplier enrollment requirements; make changes regarding DME benefit expansion for infusion pumps and drugs; and discuss collection of information requirement changes regarding the DMEPOS Competitive Bidding Program (CBP) country of origin.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA, the Agency, or we) is proposing regulations to prescribe the format, content, and procedures for establishment registration and tobacco product listing. Complete and accurate establishment registration and product listing information is important to accomplish statutory, regulatory, and public health objectives. Currently, only domestic owners and operators are required to register their establishments and list their tobacco products with FDA while foreign owners and operators are not subject to these requirements, creating significant gaps in Agency information. This action, if finalized, would extend registration and listing requirements to include owners and operators of foreign establishments.

This notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM, or proposed rule) would establish certain additional requirements for sponsor suitability assessments related to proof of identity, proof of income, and other information required for background checks to promote the safe placement of unaccompanied alien children (UAC). This NPRM proposes acceptable documentation for proof of identity and would require proof of income from potential sponsors of UAC in ORR custody by reason of their immigration status, as described in the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (HSA) and the William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008 (TVPRA). This NPRM also proposes amendments to background check requirements for sponsor suitability assessments and the conduct of examinations of UAC related to considerations of UAC dangerousness to self or others that align with the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Finally, this NPRM proposes certain administrative updates to align numbering and terminology between proposals and existing regulations. The docket on https://www.regulations.gov will include a plain language summary of the NPRM.

This proposed rule would update and revise the End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Prospective Payment System for calendar year 2027. This rule also proposes to update the payment rate for renal dialysis services furnished by an ESRD facility to individuals with acute kidney injury. In addition, this rule proposes to update the requirements for the ESRD Quality Incentive Program.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or we) is announcing that we have filed a food additive petition, submitted by Sterigenics U.S., LLC, proposing that we amend our food additive regulations to provide for the safe use of ionizing radiation for the reduction of pathogens in raw enriched wheat flour.

This request for information seeks input from the public on whether any additions or modifications are needed to the safe harbor regulations under the Federal anti-kickback statute or the exceptions to the civil monetary penalty provision prohibiting inducements to beneficiaries (the "Beneficiary Inducements CMP") for remuneration provided to individuals in connection with their participation in clinical trials.

This request for information (RFI) solicits technical input on the services and business practices of pharmacy benefit managers ("PBMs") and their affiliates to inform implementation of recent legislation. It specifically focuses on gathering information to inform two specific legislative requirements that are effective beginning calendar year 2028: restrictions on the remuneration that PBMs and their affiliates may receive for services in connection with the utilization of covered Part D drugs; and data reporting requirements.

The Administration for Children and Families proposes to amend the Child Support regulations to eliminate unnecessary and obsolete regulations in the following sections: State Plan Approval and Grant Procedures, State Plan Requirements, Standards for Program Operations, Federal Financial Participation, Program Performance Measures, Standards, Financial Incentives, and Penalties, Computerized Support Enforcement Systems, Annual State Self-Assessment Review and Report, Tribal Child Support Enforcement (IV-D) Program, and Computerized Tribal IV-D Systems and Office Automation. A plain language summary of this proposed rule is available at https://www.regulations.gov.

This proposed rule would codify the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program ("Negotiation Program") and would establish certain new policies for the Negotiation Program and the Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Program as required by the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. This proposed rule would also propose a modification to the fixed combination drug policy.

This request for information (RFI) seeks public input to support CMS' comprehensive review of the Essential Health Benefits (EHB) framework and the requirement under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Affordable Care Act) that the scope of EHB be equal to the scope of benefits provided under a typical employer plan. CMS seeks comment on current interpretations of EHB, State approaches to selecting and updating EHB-benchmark plans, and methodologies used to determine the scope of benefits included as EHB, as well as how these approaches relate to access and market stability under the Affordable Care Act. CMS also seeks comment on variation across States in the scope of benefits included as EHB, cost pressures affecting EHB, processes for updating State EHB-benchmark plans, limitations in available data used to evaluate EHB, and potential impacts of possible future policy changes. The information gathered will inform CMS' evaluation of whether revisions or additions to the current EHB regulations through future notice and comment rulemaking may be appropriate.

The Office of Child Support Enforcement proposes to rescind the Employment and Training Services for Noncustodial Parents in the Child Support Program final rule, published in the Federal Register on December 13, 2024. The final rule allowed child support agencies to utilize Federal Financial Participation under title IV-D of the Social Security Act for providing specific, optional, and non-duplicative employment and training services to eligible noncustodial parents.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or we) is reopening the comment period for the notification of petition, published in the Federal Register of January 11, 2024, announcing that we filed a food additive petition proposing that the food additive regulations be amended to remove four specified solvents. FDA is reopening the comment period to allow for the submission of any updated data and other information over the last two years.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or we) is reopening the comment period for the notification of petition, published in the Federal Register of January 11, 2024, announcing that we filed a color additive petition proposing that the color additive regulations be amended to remove three specified solvents. FDA is reopening the comment period to allow for the submission of any updated data and other information over the last two years.

The Administration for Children and Families proposes to amend the Grants to States for Public Assistance Programs regulations, the General Administration--State Plans and Grant Appeals regulations, the General Administration--Public Assistance Programs regulations, the Training and Use of Subprofessionals and Volunteers regulations, the Coverage and Conditions of Eligibility in Financial Assistance Programs regulations, the Financial Assistance to Individuals regulations, the Administration of Financial Assistance Programs regulations, the Fiscal Administration of Financial Assistance Programs regulations, the General Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Provisions regulations, the Ensuring That Recipients Work regulations, the Accountability Provisions--General regulations, the Expenditures of State and Federal TANF Funds regulations, the Other Accountability Provisions regulations, the Data Collection and Reporting Requirements regulations, the High Performance Bonus Awards regulations, the Implementation of Section 403(a)(2) of the Social Security Act Bonus to Reward Decrease in Illegitimacy Ratio regulations, the Methodology for Determining Whether an Increase in a State or Territory's Child Poverty Rate Is the Result of the TANF Program regulations, the Tribal TANF Provisions regulations, and The Native Employment Works (NEW) Program regulations to eliminate unnecessary or obsolete regulations. The docket on https://www.regulations.gov will include a plain language summary of the NPRM.

This proposed rule describes alternatives to modify the limit on the total payment rate and other requirements for State directed payments in Medicaid managed care. We propose these changes based on our authority to interpret and implement section 1902(a)(4) of the Social Security Act (the Act) with respect to prepaid inpatient health plans and prepaid ambulatory health plans, and section 1903(m)(2)(A)(iii) of the Act, which require that contracts between States and managed care organizations to provide payments under a risk- based contract for services and associated administrative costs that are actuarially sound. This rule also proposes to set a limit for certain targeted Medicaid payments in Medicaid fee-for-service. We propose this change based on our authority to interpret and implement section 1902(a)(30)(A) of the Act with respect to certain targeted Medicaid payments which require that payments be consistent with efficiency, economy, and quality of care and are sufficient to enlist enough providers so that care and services are available under the plan at least to the extent that such care and services are available to the general population in the geographic area.

This document corrects technical and typographical errors in the proposed rule that appeared in the April 14, 2026 Federal Register titled "Medicare Program; Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment Systems for Acute Care Hospitals (IPPS) and the Long-Term Care Hospital Prospective Payment System and Policy Changes and Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Rates; Requirements for Quality Programs; and Other Policy Changes."

In this notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM), the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) proposes to remove requirements from the Head Start Program Performance Standards (Performance Standards) to restore local flexibility to Head Start programs and improve access to quality services. Specifically, this NPRM proposes to remove requirements related to wages and benefits that the Administration believes are not in line with the plain language of the Head Start Act and are costly and overly prescriptive for Head Start programs and staff. ACF estimates these proposed changes, if finalized, will result in over $2 billion in future cost savings for Head Start programs. The proposed rescissions in this NPRM, if finalized, would impact the costliest parts of the final rule published by the Office of Head Start (OHS) in 2024, Supporting the Head Start Workforce and Consistent Quality Programming.\1\ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------