ACR-Anticipated 2026 State Policy Trends

While much of the national conversation in Washington remains centered on Medicare payment, budget neutrality, and fiscal pressures on physician practices, the states are moving on many fronts that can have a significant impact on how imaging is delivered. As the 2026 legislative cycle approaches, it is important for radiologist-advocates to balance attention between federal and state developments.

ACR® compiled key issues to watch in upcoming sessions, including:

• Scope of practice: Dangerous scope of practice expansion legislation that would allow more healthcare workers to do tasks usually performed by physicians to address workforce shortages.
• AI in healthcare: Rules for using artificial intelligence in patient care, including safety and transparency.
• Radiation safety and insurance coverage: Updates to coverage for breast imaging and other diagnostic exams.
• Medical liability reform: Reduction in unnecessary defensive medicine by updating damage caps and expert witness rules.
• Healthcare oversight: Review of hospital mergers and ownership changes to see how they affect patient access and imaging services.
• Network adequacy and supervision: Examination of insurance networks and whether they include enough specialists and how imaging exams are supervised, including remote options.

Even when radiology isn’t named directly, these decisions can affect imaging use and staffing. Radiologists can help lawmakers understand the real-world impact and keep patient safety front and center.

For more information about these and other potential state issues, contact Eugenia Brandt, ACR Senior Government Relations Director, or Dillon Harp, Senior State Government Relations Specialist. To see all legislation tracked by ACR visit the College’s interactive policy map.