Skip to main content

VGM & ASSOCIATESHealthcare MSO

Search GO

Search GO

VGM & ASSOCIATESHealthcare MSO LEARN ABOUT VGM

Senate Introduces Companion Bill to H.R. 2005: The DME Relief Act Gains Bipartisan Momentum

Published in Government Relations on October 03, 2025

In a significant development for the durable medical equipment (DME) industry and Medicare beneficiaries, the U.S. Senate has introduced S.2951, the companion legislation to H.R. 2005, known as the DMEPOS Relief Act of 2025. The Senate bill is being led by Senator James Lankford (R-OK) and has gained bipartisan support with Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) joining as a co-sponsor.

Much like its House counterpart, S.2951 directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to implement adjustments to Medicare payment rates for items of durable medical equipment that were previously included in Round 2021 of the DMEPOS Competitive Bidding Program. These adjustments aim to restore fair reimbursement levels and ensure continued access to essential medical equipment for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

The introduction of S.2951 marks a pivotal moment for stakeholders who have long advocated for Senate action. Finding a Democratic co-sponsor for the Senate bill was a challenge that took time and persistent outreach. Senator Hassan’s support now gives the bill a stronger chance of advancing through committee and eventually reaching the Senate floor.

S.2951 has been referred to the Senate Committee on Finance. Industry advocates, including VGM Group and AAHomecare, are urging stakeholders to contact their Senators and express support for the bill. The goal is to ensure that both S.2951 and H.R. 2005 move forward in tandem, ultimately securing relief for DME providers and protecting patient access nationwide.

Special thanks go out to the dedicated DME suppliers and industry stakeholders who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to help secure bipartisan support for this legislation. Their collaboration with the offices of Senators Lankford and Hassan was instrumental in moving the DME Relief Act forward and ensuring the voices of providers and patients were heard.

Please take a minute today to reach out to your Senator asking to support S.2951. Tell them your story, and why improved reimbursement will help you continue to provide quality medical equipment and supplies to those in need.

You can click here to instantly email your senator: Action Center

From Our Experts

CMS Finalizes Rule Changing The Next Round Of The Competitive Bidding Program And Updating Other Provisions Related To Provider Enrollment And Prior Authorization thumbnail

CMS Finalizes Rule Changing The Next Round Of The Competitive Bidding Program And Updating Other Provisions Related To Provider Enrollment And Prior Authorization Final Rule Analysis from the VGM Payer Relations and Reimbursement team On Nov, 28, 2025, CMS finalized Final Rule CMS-1828-F that includes updates to the Competitive Bidding Program (CBP) and other provisions related to provider enrollment and prior authorization. Next round is expected to be implemented no later than Jan. 1, 2028.

Celebrating the Life and Impact of Mike Hamilton, ADMEA Executive Director thumbnail

Celebrating the Life and Impact of Mike Hamilton, ADMEA Executive Director We are deeply saddened to share the passing of our beloved colleague and friend, Mike Hamilton, Executive Director of the Alabama Durable Medical Equipment Association (ADMEA). For more than 50 years, Mike dedicated his life to the durable medical equipment (DME) industry, setting an extraordinary example of hard work, integrity, and unwavering passion. His leadership and advocacy helped shape the industry and improve access to care for countless patients.

The Big Sky Association of Medical Equipment Suppliers Welcomes UTAH! thumbnail

The Big Sky Association of Medical Equipment Suppliers Welcomes UTAH! The Big Sky Association of Medical Equipment Suppliers is pleased to announce that Utah has officially been accepted into the association as our newest participating state. Big Sky now proudly welcomes all Utah DME/HME, Respiratory, CRT, and Medical Supply companies into our regional association. Utah will have a designated state representative/director—appointed in the same manner as Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming—to ensure strong representation and a clear voice within the Association.

Beyond the Shutdown and The Proposed Rule: Key Legislative Updates for the HME Industry thumbnail

Beyond the Shutdown and The Proposed Rule: Key Legislative Updates for the HME Industry While the government shutdown and uncertainty surrounding CMS's Proposed Rule have dominated headlines, several important bills impacting HME providers continue to advance. Here's a quick look at three focused legislative priorities:

Advocacy in Action: Texas DME Providers Stand Up For Patient Care thumbnail

Advocacy in Action: Texas DME Providers Stand Up For Patient Care Texas DME providers are speaking out against proposed Medicaid reimbursement rate cuts that threaten access to essential medical equipment for vulnerable patients. At a recent public hearing, voices from across the state shared powerful stories about the real-world impact of these cuts—some as high as 85%.

The Shutdown Has Ended—Now It's Time To Take Action thumbnail

The Shutdown Has Ended—Now It's Time To Take Action The recent government shutdown created uncertainty across the healthcare landscape, and the DMEPOS community was no exception. In the weeks ahead, critical decisions will shape the future of our industry. By getting involved early—through advocacy, education, and collaboration—you can help ensure these policies support patients and providers rather than hinder them. Notably, the Continuing Resolution (CR) includes an extension of Medicare telehealth flexibilities through January 2026...

New Issue Brief: Why Medicare's Competitive Bidding Program Needs Urgent Reform thumbnail

New Issue Brief: Why Medicare's Competitive Bidding Program Needs Urgent Reform The Medicare competitive bidding program for durable medical equipment (DME) was designed to reduce costs—but it's failing patients and providers. A new issue brief from Pacific Research Institute and economist Wayne Winegarden highlights what changes are urgently needed.

Champions of Change: DME Advocates Driving Real Change thumbnail

Champions of Change: DME Advocates Driving Real Change Real change starts with real people. In this edition of Champions of Change, we're spotlighting two DME advocates who aren't just talking about problems—they're taking action. David Griffin and Gary Rench are showing us what it means to stand up for patients, providers, and the future of our industry.

Give your business an advantage over the competition.

Become a Member