Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026

Sponsor: Tom Cole (Republican-OK)January 20, 2026

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Introduced

In Committee

Passed One Chamber

Passed Both Chambers

Signed into Law

Became Public Law No: 119-75.

Funds government operations, extends healthcare programs, and sets spending for defense and social services.

This bill sets aside money to run the federal government for the 2026 budget year, covering everything from military pay to housing assistance. It also extends many important healthcare programs and telehealth options, while introducing new rules for pharmacy benefit managers to increase transparency.

What Would Change

Today, many federal programs and agencies would face funding uncertainty or expiration without new appropriations. Key healthcare flexibilities, like those for telehealth, might also end. After this bill, federal government operations would be funded for the 2026 budget year, ensuring continuity of services. Crucially, many healthcare programs and telehealth options would be extended, and pharmacy benefit managers would face new transparency and rebate pass-through rules aimed at lowering drug costs.

Key Provisions

Funds military personnel pay, operations, procurement, and research for all branches of the Department of Defense.
Sets aside $34.9 billion for renewing Section 8 tenant-based rental assistance for low-income families.
Provides $6.1 billion for the Medicare program to extend payment adjustments for certain hospitals and ambulance services.
Extends various telehealth flexibilities under Medicare until December 31, 2027.
Requires pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) to pass through 100% of rebates and discounts to health plans and increases transparency in their operations.
Appropriates $4 billion for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to help families with heating and cooling costs.