Endocrine Society's Advocacy Successes in March 2026

In March 2026, the Endocrine Society celebrated key advocacy successes that reinforced its commitment to supporting endocrine research and healthcare initiatives. A pivotal win was Congress's approval of an increased funding bill for the Department of Health and Human Services for fiscal year 2026. This bill allocates approximately $415 million more for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), along with a designated $10 million boost specifically for diabetes research.

Critically, this bill includes provisions that the Endocrine Society championed. These measures limit a controversial budgeting practice known as multi-year funding, prevent arbitrary limits on indirect cost rates, and mandate that NIH grants be processed within five business days. This legislative triumph stands in stark contrast to earlier proposals from the administration, which initially sought a troubling 40% cut to NIH research funds that would have led to the cancellation of numerous grants and a potential restructuring of the NIH, hindering progress in endocrine research.

While it wasn't the only organization advocating for NIH funding, the Endocrine Society's vocal stance significantly contributed to these positive changes. Over the past year, the Society engaged in a range of advocacy strategies including online campaigns, Hill Days, direct meetings with congressional representatives, and various briefings to push for these outcomes. Additionally, the Society collaborated with multiple professional medical associations and patient advocacy groups to promote a unified message. A noteworthy achievement was a joint letter to congressional leaders, which garnered support from over 140 organizations, amplifying the Society's advocacy efforts.

As attention shifts towards the next budget cycle for fiscal year 2027, anticipated proposals, including potential cuts to research funding, are already prompting the Society to prepare. The release of President Trump's proposed budget is expected mid-March, and the Endocrine Society plans to maintain its advocacy momentum by hosting a virtual Hill Day on March 13 for its members to engage with Congressional staff. Members not participating in the Hill Day will have opportunities to voice their support for critical funding decisions via campaign-driven letters to Congress.

In another advocacy milestone, the Endocrine Society successfully lobbied for the reauthorization of the Special Diabetes Program (SDP) and the extension of Medicare telehealth waivers. In February, Congress passed legislation that the president subsequently signed into law, which includes funding of $200 million per program each year for the SDP, reflecting a $40 million increase for its two major components.

The Society worked closely with congressional leaders, specifically Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), co-chairs of the Senate Diabetes Caucus, and Representatives Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Michael Bilirakis (R-FL), who co-chair the House Diabetes Caucus. As endodontists are the predominant users of telehealth services within Medicare, the Society has vigorously advocated for the continuation of these vital services, which facilitate at-home care for beneficiaries.

The SDP primarily funds type 1 diabetes research through the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) while also supporting prevention, education, and treatment programs tailored for indigenous communities through the Indian Health Service. In a statement, Senator Collins celebrated the funding increase, featuring insights from the Endocrine Society’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Robert W. Lash.

As part of ongoing discussions about the NIH's future, Congress continues to explore potential modernization strategies. Over recent years, including in 2025, there were various proposals from both Congress and the administration concerning a restructuring of the NIH, aimed at reducing the number of its Institutes and Centers significantly. In recent hearings held by the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), important inquiries were directed at NIH Director Jayanta Bhattacharya concerning funding cuts and their repercussions on research.

During the hearings, senators voiced concerns regarding the impact of canceled grants and clinical trials on patients and the broader implications for scientific progress. Senator Collins specifically noted how cuts to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives have adversely affected women's health research and work addressing health disparities. This sentiment was echoed by Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), who highlighted gaps in the NIH's leadership structure.

The Endocrine Society remains dedicated to advocating for substantive funding and supportive policies for endocrine research. It will continue to inform its members on significant developments. Senator Baldwin urged Director Bhattacharya to adhere to commitment made in the NIH funding bill, emphasizing the need for external scientists in leadership selection processes and addressing the consequences of multi-year funding expansions.

Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) interrogated Bhattacharya about the effects of funding reductions on NIH-supported clinical trials, alongside raising concerns about the appointment expirations of Advisory Council members who perform essential grant application reviews. Throughout the hearing, Bhattacharya reassured the committee members of his commitment to restoring confidence in scientific processes and prioritizing the retention of early-career researchers. He emphasized that maintaining a focus on improving the health of Americans is vital, even while referencing continuity of care for patients affected by halted clinical trials, specifying that responsibility lies with researchers and not the NIH.

In a further initiative to educate lawmakers, the Endocrine Society recently hosted a congressional briefing in collaboration with the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD). This event, titled "GLP-1s: A Game Changer for the Treatment of Liver Disease," was conducted to inform congressional staff about the mechanisms of GLP-1 receptor agonists in managing obesity and its related diseases, including liver conditions. Dr. Dale Abel, a former president of the Endocrine Society, played a key role in the briefing, sharing insights on how GLP-1 medications function against obesity and their corresponding therapeutic potential.

Following the educational session, Dr. Abel conducted additional visits to congressional offices to further discuss obesity policies, thereby elevating the Society’s presence as a key authoritative voice in the discourse. Through these sustained efforts, the Endocrine Society demonstrates its commitment and effectiveness in advocacy efforts that promote comprehensive healthcare policy.