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119th Congress
Independent · Nonpartisan · Reader-supported
HOUSEH.R. 5347· 119th Congress

Medicare Delays New Reporting Rules for Health Networks

Health Care Efficiency Through Flexibility Act

Sponsor
Vern Buchanan (R-FL)
Introduced
Sep 15, 2025
Last Action
Jun 29, 2026
Passage
68%
Introduced
Sep 15, 2025
Committee
Floor Vote
Jun 29, 2026
4
Both Chambers
5
Enacted
01 — The Text

What.

  • Delays new electronic reporting requirements for accountable care organizations (ACOs) managing Medicare patients through 2029.
  • ACOs can keep using old reporting methods instead of switching to new CMS system in 2025.
  • Creates pilot program testing alternative digital reporting methods from 2028-2032; CMS analyzes results and makes recommendations.
02 — The Stakes

So what?

  • Healthcare networks get 4-year reprieve from expensive system overhaul, reducing administrative burden and costs.
  • Medicare beneficiaries may benefit from ACOs' saved resources staying in care coordination vs. IT compliance.
  • Tradeoff: Delays standardization that could improve data quality and program oversight across all ACOs.
03 — The Path

Now what?

  • House passed it June 29, 2026 by voice vote (unanimous committee approval in May). Now heads to Senate.
  • Call your senators' offices to express your position on healthcare administrative flexibility vs. standardization.
  • Bill becomes law only if Senate passes identical version and president signs.
Legislative History

Actions.

  • Jun 29, 2026Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
  • Jun 29, 2026On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H4272)
  • Jun 29, 2026Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H4272)
  • Jun 29, 2026DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5347.
  • Jun 29, 2026Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H4272-4273)
  • Jun 29, 2026Mr. Smith (MO) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.
  • May 21, 2026Ordered to be Reported by the Yeas and Nays: 44 - 0.
  • May 21, 2026Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held