From DC: Medicare & Medicaid Provisions, Utah Homeless Camp Concerns, and More

February 13, 2026

From DC is Justice in Aging's weekly roundup of national news and resources about issues impacting older adults. To receive From DC in your inbox as soon as its published, sign up for our mailing list.

Here’s what we’re watching in Washington:

Medicare and Medicaid Provisions in New Funding Bill

The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026 (CAA) that was signed into law last week included numerous health care provisions beyond the regular appropriations and reauthorization of programs. A few Medicare, Medicaid and language access reforms included that Justice in Aging supports are:

Elimination of copays for generic drugs under the Part D Low Income Subsidy (LIS) beginning in 2028 for people dually eligible for Medicaid and Medicare with incomes below 100% of the federal poverty line.
New requirements to make Medicare Advantage plan provider directories more accurate and easier to use, and to protect enrollees from higher out-of-network cost sharing when relying on incorrect directory information.
Removing the current age limit of 65 on the “Ticket to Work” Medicaid buy-in program for adults with disabilities who have income and assets that exceed other Medicaid eligibility limits.
The SPEAK Act, which requires the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to develop best practices for improving telehealth access for people with limited English proficiency.
Funding for HHS to continue language access improvement projects, such as development of a universal language access symbol.

Lawmakers Raise Concerns Over Utah’s Plans for Government-Run Homeless Camp

A group of Democratic representatives have raised concerns with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) over Utah’s plans to build a government-run homeless camp for as many as 1,300 people. In a letter to HUD, the representatives urge the agency to deny federal funding for the camp and cite the potential for civil liberties violations and harmful conditions. Utah’s proposal hinges on sufficient funding from state and federal sources.

Older adults are the fastest-growing group among people experiencing homelessness. In recent months, the Trump Administration has sought to undermine federal homelessness funding in ways that would disproportionately harm older adults and people with disabilities. While advocates have so far successfully pushed back on such proposals, Utah’s plans highlight ongoing threats around the issues of homelessness and community living.