Advocacy News

• Texas blood bill opposed by pathology
• Pathology groups amend Alabama genetic privacy bill
• Montana enacts 72-hour test result delay
• GAO: 35 ways to save time, money at HHS
• CAP25: Community, networks, professional development

A controversial blood donation bill in Texas failed to pass the legislature after opposition from medical groups.

Why it matters: The bill promoted autologous and direct blood donations with a physician's order but potentially contradicted best medical practices.

• The CAP and the Texas Society of Pathologists (TSP) argued that the bill could compromise the safety and efficiency of the blood supply without proven public health benefits.
• The CAP and the TSP opposed Texas SB 125/HB 5090, citing concerns that the bill could jeopardize timely patient care.
• The Texas Hospital Association and the Texas Chapter of the American College of Physicians also opposed the legislation.

The latest: The bill passed the state Senate and had a hearing in the House Public Health Committee on May 22.

• In the hearing, the Texas Medical Association (TMA) testified against the bill and the legislation was left pending in committee, with no further action taking place.

The Alabama Association of Pathologists (AAP), the Alabama Medical Association, and the CAP successfully amended a bill that would have criminalized the unauthorized use of genetic samples.

Why it matters: HB 449 proposed criminal penalties for "unlawful use of DNA," potentially impacting individuals who handle DNA without a patient’s consent.

The backdrop: The bill initially failed to include an exemption for federal HIPAA-covered entities—an exemption which currently exists under the Alabama Genetic Data Privacy Act.

• The three organizations pushed for amendments to protect essential pathology and laboratory services and to uphold diagnostic standards.

Where it stands: The legislation did not advance in the state Senate.

The enactment of Montana HB 590 mandates a 72-hour delay in releasing certain test results to patients via electronic health records (EHRs).

Why it matters: This state law is not superseded by the federal information-blocking rules, allowing a delay in the immediate electronic release of test results.

• The law ensures that the rule regarding the release of test results does not apply to laboratory information systems.

The big picture: Montana's law aligns with similar CAP-amended laws in Kentucky and Tennessee, placing the onus of regulatory compliance in the delay of test results solely on those who control EHRs—not on pathologists or clinical labs. Without this distinction, labs could be at risk of violating federal information-blocking rules.

Details: The legislation was amended following advocacy by the CAP, the Montana Society of Pathologists, and the Montana Medical Association.

• It codifies the CAP's EHR definition, safeguarding lab information systems from regulatory misinterpretation for compliance purposes.

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has identified more than $100 billion in potential cuts and savings for the Trump administration to consider as it overhauls the federal government. 

Why it matters: The GAO's recommendations could help officials improve efficiency in Medicare, Medicaid, and other health programs.

• GAO outlined 35 priority recommendations for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

For example, GAO urges Medicare to seek legislation that would allow auditors to conduct prepayment claim reviews.

• Yes, but: This recommendation was initially made in 2016. HHS has pushed back, citing existing programs that are already aimed at preventing improper payments.

Go deeper: Read GAO's recommendations for HHS.

CAP25 is where science merges with the heart of our specialty, offering more than just an annual meeting—it's an opportunity for professional development and growth.

Why it matters: Each session at CAP25 highlights the passion and purpose behind our path, fostering a sense of community and connection.

• Build relationships and expand your professional network.
• Discover the latest advancements in the field.

Join us: September 13–16 in Orlando, Florida.

Register today!