LUGPA Policy Alert - Regulatory Freeze Impacts HHS Rulemaking

Jan. 2025

The Trump administration has initiated a governmentwide regulatory freeze, pausing progress on healthcare regulations for 60 days. This action halts the rulemaking process, including the issuance of new rules, as the administration transitions leadership at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and assesses its regulatory priorities.

The freeze affects regulations proposed but not finalized by the Biden administration, such as updates to the HIPAA Security Rule and new rules for prescribing controlled substances via telehealth. It also delays the implementation of finalized Biden-era regulations that are not yet effective. These steps allow the Trump administration time to review, modify, or rescind regulations in alignment with its policy goals.

Similar regulatory freezes occurred at the start of the first Trump administration in 2017 and the Biden administration in 2021, serving as a tool for new leadership to understand the regulatory landscape and establish its direction.

The 60-day pause provides an opportunity for the administration to determine its focus areas while awaiting the confirmation of key agency officials. This review process could have significant implications for healthcare policies and regulations that impact independent urology practices, including telehealth, HIPAA compliance, and other critical areas.

LUGPA will continue to closely monitor these developments and advocate for policies that support independent urology practices. Members are encouraged to stay informed about changes and engage with LUGPA’s advocacy efforts to ensure their voices are heard.

To keep up to date on new and emerging policy issues affecting independent medicine, please visit LUGPA’s Health Policy and Advocacy page.