John Joyce

Dr. Joyce Reintroduces the DAIRY PRIDE Act

Washington, D.C. – This week, Congressman John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13), joined by Congressman Josh Riley (NY-19), introduced H.R. 8414, the Defending Against Imitations and Replacements of Yogurt, Milk, and Cheese to Promote Regular Intake of Dairy Everyday or DAIRY PRIDE Act, bipartisan legislation aimed at ensuring the accurate labeling of dairy products and protecting consumers from misleading marketing. This legislation is expected to be considered at the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Wednesday, April 29, 2026.

Dr. Joyce’s RED Tape Act Passes the House, Advances to the Senate

Washington, D.C. – Last week, H.R.6398, the RED Tape Act, led by Congressman John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13), passed the U.S. House with bipartisan support and will now move to the Senate for consideration. The legislation would eliminate a duplicative environmental review process that imposes costly and unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.

Dr. Joyce Introduces the Medicare Advantage Improvement Act (MAIA)

Position: The release advocates for legislation to strengthen Medicare Advantage oversight by reducing prior authorization barriers, limiting coverage denials, and increasing accountability for insurance companies to ensure seniors receive timely access to care.

Washington, D.C. – This week, Congressman John Joyce, MD (PA-13), introduced H.R.8375, the Medicare Advantage Improvement Act (MAIA), bipartisan legislation aimed at strengthening the Medicare Advantage program and ensuring seniors receive timely, reliable access to the care they have earned and deserve. “Medicare is a promise to America’s seniors that they will have dependable access to quality healthcare in their later years. However, that promise has been undermined by unnecessary barriers to care—particularly through excessive use of prior authorization and inappropriate coverage denials in Medicare Advantage,” said Congressman John Joyce, MD (PA-13). “As a physician, I have seen firsthand how these delays harm patients and take valuable time away from the doctor-patient relationship. The Medicare Advantage Improvement Act will restore accountability, reduce unnecessary barriers, and ensure that seniors receive timely, high-quality care.” “Health insurance companies have abused Medicare Advantage plans for too long, and they continue to skyrocket costs, deny coverage, and force taxpayers to pay the price. We need increased oversight into the Medicare Advantage program so that all seniors get the care they were promised,” said Congresswoman Kim Schrier, MD (WA-08). “I am extremely proud to have worked on these much-needed Medicare Advantage reforms, which will hold insurance companies accountable and get patients timely, quality care.” "Medicare Advantage should work for seniors, not enable health insurers to deny life-saving care. The Medicare Advantage Improvement Act is a commonsense step to rein in excessive prior authorization abuse, ensure timely access to care, and restore accountability in a system that too often delays or denies needed treatment. I'm proud to help lead this effort to strengthen Medicare Advantage and uphold the promise we’ve made to America’s seniors," said Congressman Greg Murphy, MD (NC-03). “For too long, cases of abuse have crept into Medicare Advantage, pulling it away from its core mission of serving America’s seniors,” said Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks, MD (IA-01). “As a physician, I’ve seen how these practices delay care, create unnecessary barriers, and increases the cost of healthcare. This bill restores accountability, cracks down on bad actors, and ensures Iowa seniors can access the care they need, without delay, without denial, and without interference from bureaucratic red tape.” “Medicare Advantage can play an important role in helping seniors access quality, affordable care, but that only works if plans are holding up their end of the bargain,” said Congressman Ami Bera, MD (CA-06). “Right now, too many seniors are running into barriers that delay treatment and create confusion for patients and providers alike. This legislation is about bringing more accountability and oversight to Medicare Advantage so plans better serve the people they are supposed to serve. I’m proud to join this bipartisan effort to strengthen the program and protect our seniors.” “Medicare Advantage plans too often leave seniors fighting their health insurance companies to obtain lifesaving care in a timely manner,” said Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-19). “Our bipartisan bill would make critical reforms to avoid lengthy prior authorization delays and opaque denials of coverage, while improving transparency, expediting payments for previously authorized services, and holding irresponsible actors accountable. I’ll always work with my colleagues across the aisle to make sure Congress does its part to get working families in the 19th Congressional District the affordable, accessible healthcare they need when they need it.” “Seniors in North Texas who rely on Medicare Advantage did not sign up to navigate a maze of bureaucracy, fight inconsistent coverage standards, or wait for care their doctors already approved,” said Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne (TX-24). “The Medicare Advantage Improvement Act cuts through the red tape, holds insurance companies accountable, and ensures American seniors get the care they deserve.” Support from Stakeholders: “Medicare Advantage was intended to provide more options and improve outcomes for seniors, but in too many cases it is creating new barriers,” said Eduardo Conrado, President and CEO of Ascension. “Our physicians and care teams see it every day. Prior authorizations and inappropriate denials delay care and create confusion when patients need clarity and support most. We are committed to being part of the solution. This legislation is an important step toward strengthening the doctor-patient relationship, improving transparency, and helping Medicare Advantage better serve seniors and the clinicians who care for them." “On behalf of our 800+ inpatient rehabilitation hospital members, the American Medical Rehabilitation Providers Association (AMRPA) applauds Dr. Joyce and his colleagues for introducing the Medicare Advantage Improvement Act (MAIA),” said Kate Beller, President of AMRPA. “AMRPA member hospitals help patients maximize their health, functional ability, and independence following serious illness or injury. This legislation will provide timely and essential reforms to ensure that Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in the Medicare Advantage program are able to access the critical services provided by inpatient rehabilitation providers and, in turn, return to their home or community at higher rates than any other post-acute care setting. As AMRPA’s recent member survey shows, far too many seniors currently face unnecessary delays and erroneous denials after getting a referral for medically necessary inpatient rehabilitation care. This bill takes a critical step forward in accelerating determination timeframes, increasing plan transparency and oversight, and reducing administrative burdens for patients, caregivers, and providers. This commonsense legislation will strengthen Medicare Advantage and provide immediate protections to the patients served by the program, particularly those in need of inpatient rehabilitation. We look forward to working with our Congressional champions and allied organizations to get this vital bill signed into law.” “I want to commend Dr. Joyce and his colleagues for introducing the Medicare Advantage Improvement Act. Dr. Joyce, along with many of his physician colleagues in Congress, understand the daily challenges our patients face. While Medicare Advantage promises many benefits, its current form presents significant obstacles to care, causes confusion and delays, and limits provider choice. It is not the optimal solution for everyone,” said Anthony Misitano, President and CEO of PAM Health. “However, with more than half of all Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, we recognize the program’s importance and strongly support legislation to improve it so it can fulfill its goal of providing seniors with timely, efficient access to high-quality medical care and services. On behalf of our patients nationwide, I thank Dr. Joyce and his colleagues for safeguarding patient care and working to strengthen this critical program.” “Across the communities we serve, we see too many seniors enrolled in Medicare Advantage struggling to get the care they need -- facing delays, unexpected denials, and confusion at moments when they should be focused on their health,” said Kevin Hammons, CEO of Community Health Systems. “When care becomes unpredictable, it creates stress and uncertainty for patients and their families and can stand in the way of timely treatment. We thank Dr. Joyce and his colleagues for their leadership in introducing the Medicare Advantage Improvement Act. By improving prior authorization processes, reducing unnecessary administrative barriers, and increasing transparency, this legislation will help create a more consistent, dependable experience for seniors and strengthen Medicare Advantage for the long term.” “Medicare Advantage has grown rapidly, and we are proud of our ability to meet the needs of many patients who are covered by the program,” said Mark Tarr, President and Chief Executive Officer of Encompass Health. “However, Medicare Advantage prior authorization and patient access issues persist. With the introduction of the Medicare Advantage Improvement Act, we are excited that policymakers in Congress are now closer to making much-needed changes to strengthen oversight for plans that fail to meet compliance standards, and expand access to Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities, ensuring patients can receive the care they need without unnecessary barriers.” Full text of the Medicare Advantage Improvement Act (MAIA): Document maia-full-text.pdf (140.4 KB)

Dr. Joyce Meets with the Galliker Dairy Company to Discuss Issues Impacting the Dairy Industry

Position: Congressman Joyce supports the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025, which restored whole milk as an option in school lunches, and expresses commitment to policies supporting the dairy industry.

Washington, D.C. – Earlier this week, Congressman John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13), met with members of the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) as part of their annual Women’s Summit, welcoming a delegation of rising and established women leaders from across the dairy industry. The delegation included several Pennsylvania-based leaders, among them a constituent, Julia Galliker, Executive Vice President of Galliker Dairy Company in Johnstown. “As always, I appreciated the opportunity to hear directly from leaders in the dairy industry. The Pennsylvania dairy industry plays a vital role in our economy, and I remain committed to advancing policies that support its success,” said Congressman Joyce. “Recently in Congress, I was proud to support the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025. This legislation restored the option of whole milk in school lunches and ensured that students have access to the nutrition they need. Ms. Galliker and I both agreed that whole milk provides essential nutrients that are critical to children’s bone, muscle, and brain development. We must give our children access to high-quality dairy products throughout their daily diet. Thank you to Julia Galliker and the IDFA members for their leadership and engagement." ###

Dr. Joyce Highlights the Importance of Reauthorizing FirstNet to Secure Broadband for First Responders

Position: Congressman Joyce supports reauthorization of the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) through 2037, citing its critical role in enabling reliable emergency communications for first responders, particularly in rural areas.

Washington, D.C. – Today, the Energy and Commerce Committee held a full committee markup to reauthorize the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). During the markup, Congressman John Joyce, M.D., spoke in favor of H.R. 7386, The First Responder Network Authority Reauthorization Act. This legislation would reauthorize the FirstNet through September 2037 and includes key provisions to increase transparency, ensure accountability, and strengthen the FirstNet program for the first responders that depend on it to serve communities across the United States. The bill successfully passed through the Committee with unanimous support and will now move to be considered before the full House of Representatives. View Congressman Joyce’s full remarks by clicking here. “FirstNet is a critical component of public safety communications in the district that I represent in Pennsylvania. Particularly across rural areas, the FirstNet network provides first responders the ability to respond to emergency situations with the most effective communications system possible. In an emergency, there is no time to waste. First responders across the country know the grave consequences that can happen when a 911 call drops or communications systems fail in the seconds that matter most.” “At Shade Gap Volunteer Fire Company in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, firefighters utilize the FirstNet system to save countless lives. Before the FirstNet system tower was installed in 2022, firefighters faced 911 dispatch calls that were difficult to hear and phone calls that would drop. In some cases, people in emergency situations would even have to drive to nearby towns to make a call to 911,” said Congressman Joyce, M.D. “Shade Gap Volunteer Fire Company President Tanner Locke said that with FirstNet coverage in their area, firefighters have not had one single dropped 911 call. That is correct – not one single dropped 911 call. The FirstNet upgrade has allowed first responders to respond to emergencies when time is of the essence.” ###

Dr. Joyce Statement on President Trump’s State Of The Union Address

Washington, D.C. – Congressman John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13) issued the following statement on President Donald Trump’s State of the Union Address. “Tonight, Donald Trump delivered a powerful reflection on the achievements of the past year. This State of the Union was about results — real, measurable results — and about keeping the promises made to the American people,” said Congressman John Joyce. “More important, the President made it very clear that America continues to move full-speed ahead into a prosperous year to come.” “The President outlined a clear vision focused on strengthening our economy, securing our borders, lowering costs for families, restoring American leadership, and expanding opportunity for the next generation. Over the past year, we have seen meaningful steps to support American workers, families, and small businesses. Policies centered on economic growth, tax relief, national security, and energy independence are helping to forge a successful future for our nation. The American people deserve results — safer communities, better jobs, lower costs, and a government that works for them — and that remains our focus,” said Congressman John Joyce. ###

Joyce, Dean Introduce Bipartisan Solution to Restore Public Library Passport Services

Washington, D.C. – Congressman John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13) and Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-4) introduced H.R. 6997, the Community Passport Services Access Act, bipartisan legislation that would allow 501(c)(3) non-profit, public libraries to continue to serve as passport acceptance facilities. H.R. 6997 was introduced in response to a recent determination by the U.S. Department of State that, despite past and current practice, existing federal law does not explicitly allow for public libraries, which are organized as non-profit, charitable organizations, to collect and retain execution fees for processing passport applications. For many non-profit, public libraries, the ability to serve as a passport acceptance facility affords those organizations the ability to keep their doors open and serve countless communities. Congressman Joyce and Congresswoman Dean were joined by Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-5), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-6), Robert Bresnahan (PA-8), and Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) in introducing the legislation. “The Community Passport Services Access Act is the direct result of the outreach I received from libraries in my congressional district that would be adversely impacted by recent changes. Families in our rural communities have come to rely on their local public libraries for accessible and convenient passport services and they deserve the certainty to know that these services will continue to be available,” said Congressman Joyce, M.D. “I’m grateful for Congresswoman Dean’s partnership in ensuring that affected libraries will be able to provide passport services and keep their doors open in our communities for years to come.” “Our public libraries are a beacon — offering a breadth of resources right in our communities, including the ability to accept passport applications,” Congresswoman Dean said. “Pennsylvanians depend on the accessibility of passport acceptance facilities, and our libraries rely on this program for crucial revenue. At a time when more Americans than ever are seeking passports, the State Department must reinstate this sensible, time-saving option.” “Libraries are more than just gateways to lifelong learning in our community. I want to thank Dr. Joyce for leading efforts to address this issue. I am pleased to join my Pennsylvania colleagues in a bipartisan effort to ensure that libraries can remain passport acceptance agencies and will advocate for this bill’s swift consideration and passage,” said Congressman Smucker. “I also want to thank the library directors, board members, local elected officials, and community members who shared their concerns with me about the impact of this decision. Their input was invaluable as the Pennsylvania Delegation worked together to address this issue.” “Public libraries sit at the heart of our communities and increasingly serve as a gateway to essential federal services like passports. This bill ensures they can continue providing that access without diverting local dollars away from core community needs. It keeps services close to home, safeguards local resources, and protects taxpayers from being asked to subsidize a federal responsibility,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. "Libraries are the bedrock of communities across Pennsylvania and our nation. Ensuring that Americans can access passport services in the same trusted community spaces they already rely on and are familiar with is essential to making government more accessible and convenient for families and individuals alike. I am proud to support this bipartisan bill, which reaffirms the vital role libraries play in delivering essential services to our constituents including access to passport services," said Congresswoman Houlahan. “For families in Northeastern Pennsylvania, getting a passport should not mean taking a day off work or driving hours just to access a federal service. Our local nonprofit libraries are already trusted hubs for the community, and this legislation simply gives them the tools to keep doing what they do best, serve people. Allowing libraries to receive processing fees ensures these services remain available, affordable, and right here at home, while strengthening the community institutions that so many NEPA families rely on,” said Congressman Bresnahan. Statement from the Pennsylvania Library Association: “The Pennsylvania Library Association is pleased to support the legislation introduced by Congressman John Joyce and Congresswoman Madeline Dean to allow public libraries that are non-profits to maintain their status as passport acceptance facilities. Public libraries are geared to serve their communities and often provide weekend and evening hours to meet the needs of their communities. For decades, many public libraries in Pennsylvania and other states have provided an easy access point for US citizens to apply for passports for the first time. Often a one-stop service that includes taking passport photos, public libraries across both rural and urban communities have been diligent in meeting the standards required by the U.S. State Department. The unexpected sudden removal of public libraries that are structured as non-profit charitable organizations as the mere consideration of whether they are a qualified acceptance facility will have significant impact on citizens wishing to get a passport easily. Public libraries organized as non-profit charitable organizations versus being a department of local municipal government have to meet the same standards as other entities to accept passport applications. These non-profit libraries have hired and trained staff, provided significant hours of availability, and used the photo fees to help underwrite the costs of library operations. We are thrilled to see the bipartisan support of Congressman Joyce and Congresswoman Dean for the importance of public libraries serving their communities as passport acceptance facilities. Just because some public libraries operate as a non-profit organization does not mean that they are less qualified to serve their community. We appreciate both Congressman Joyce and Congresswoman Dean for their willingness to collaborate and find a legislative solution to continue the service at more than 26 non-profit public libraries in Pennsylvania who processed more than 41,000 passport applications last year!” ###