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

Published in VGM 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

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