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

Bill Delays ACO Quality Reporting Requirements and Tests Alternative Digital Methods

Health Care Efficiency Through Flexibility Act

Sponsor
Vern Buchanan (R-FL)
Introduced
Sep 15, 2025
Last Action
Jul 13, 2026

Recorded legislative actions. Future votes are not implied.

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In Committee
Sep 15, 2025
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Passed Committee
Sep 17, 2025
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Passed Committee
May 21, 2026
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Passed House
Jun 29, 2026
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Received in Senate
Jul 13, 2026

AI-assisted analysis based on the official CRS summary. Source version: Jun 24, 2026. Analysis updated: Sep 15, 2026.

01 — The Text

What.

  • Delays CMS requirement for accountable care organizations (ACOs) to report quality measures using a specific electronic system, allowing continued use of prior reporting methods through 2029.
  • Requires CMS to establish a pilot program testing alternative digital reporting methods for ACOs from 2028-2032.
  • ACOs participating in the pilot program are exempt from other reporting method requirements during the pilot period.
  • Requires CMS to publicly post analysis of the pilot program and recommendations for the tested methods.
02 — The Stakes

So what?

  • ACOs gain extended flexibility in quality measure reporting without transition to the newly mandated electronic system until 2029.
  • The pilot program tests whether alternative digital methods are viable, though effectiveness and adoption outcomes are not yet established.
  • CMS must document findings, but the bill does not specify whether recommendations will be binding or lead to policy changes.
  • Impact on Medicare Shared Savings Program participants and beneficiaries depends on outcomes of the future pilot program.
03 — The Path

Now what?

  • Bill passed the House on June 29, 2026 by voice vote under suspension of rules.
  • Bill received in Senate and referred to Committee on Finance on July 13, 2026.
  • No subsequent Senate action has been recorded.
Legislative History

Actions.

  • Jul 13, 2026 — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.
  • Jun 29, 2026 — Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
  • Jun 29, 2026 — On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H4272)
  • Jun 29, 2026 — Passed/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, 2026 — DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5347.
  • Jun 29, 2026 — Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H4272-4273)
  • Jun 29, 2026 — Mr. Smith (MO) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.
  • May 21, 2026 — Ordered to be Reported by the Yeas and Nays: 44 - 0.