Press Release: 4/20/2026
Federal Focus: Recent News and Opportunities for Action
April 17, 2026
« CLM Stands Behind Massachusetts Law Protecting LGBTQIA+ Youth from Harmful Practices
Recent news and opportunities for action regarding the federal policy landscape, impacting children in Massachusetts and across the country. Visit our Federal Advocacy page for more information about key issues that CLM regularly tracks.
Take Action!
Children’s League of Massachusetts has signed onto a comment letter submitted in response to the proposed federal rule on designated placement requirements under Titles IV-E and IV-B for LGBTQI youth in foster care. The letter raises concerns about the proposed changes and emphasizes the importance of maintaining protections for LGBTQI children in out-of-home care settings.
Several federal policies currently under consideration could impact children, families, and vulnerable populations. We encourage members to make their voices heard by submitting comments and participating in advocacy opportunities. Links to take action are listed below!
- SIGN ON: Child-Focused Comment on HUD's Mixed-Status Proposed Rule | The Children Thrive Action Network
- Help Us Protect LGBTQI+ Youth in Foster Care | Family Equality
President’s FY2027 Budget Proposal
The Administration has released its FY2027 budget proposal, outlining major changes to federal funding priorities and program structure across education, health, and human services. The proposal includes plans to consolidate or eliminate several federal programs and restructure key agencies within the Department of Health and Human Services.
Proposed changes and reductions would impact a range of programs serving children and families, including maternal and infant health, early childhood development, mental and behavioral health, public health infrastructure, workforce supports, higher education assistance, and housing stability programs. Stakeholders have raised concerns about the potential impacts on access to services and supports, particularly for low-income communities.
- President’s Budget: Volumes and Documents | U.S. Office of Management and Budget
- HHS Budget in Brief | HHS
- White House Releases FY27 President’s Budget Request | AMCHP
- NEA response to Trump administration’s proposed 2027 budget | NEA
- Trump’s FY 2027 Budget Request Would Eliminate FSEOG, Slash FWS Funding, Increase Pell Grant | NASFAA
- Statement from NLIHC President and CEO Renee M. Willis on Trump Administration’s FY27 Budget Request | NLIHC
Federal Health and Family Policy Updates
Recent federal actions and proposals continue to shape programs that support children, families, and public health systems. An executive order on substance use response outlines changes to federal strategy and coordination across agencies. At the same time, national organizations have raised concerns about proposed reductions to child care, health care, and family support programs, emphasizing potential impacts on access to services.
- Administration issues executive order on combating substance use | American Hospital Association
- NWLC on Trump Saying He Won’t Fund Child Care & Health Care Because of War | National Women's Law Center
Federal Rulemaking: Child Welfare Placement Standards
A proposed federal rule would rescind existing protections related to designated placement requirements under Titles IV-E and IV-B for LGBTQI children in foster care settings. The rule is open for public comment and has prompted engagement from stakeholders concerned about protections and placement standards for youth in out-of-home care.
- Designated Placement Requirements Under Titles IV-E and IV-B for LGBTQI+ Children; Rescission | Federal Register
Federal Rulemaking and Grant Compliance Requirements
Federal agencies have issued a proposed rule that would update System for Award Management (SAM.gov) registration requirements for recipients of federal financial assistance. National nonprofit organizations, including Children’s League of Massachusetts, have signed onto a coalition letter raising concerns about the potential administrative burden and impacts on grantees if the proposal is implemented.
- Information Collection; System for Award Management Registration Requirements for Financial Assistance Recipients | Federal Register
- NCN Sign on Letter | Council of Nonprofits
Youth Transition Supports and Chafee Program Reform
Federal reports and bipartisan proposals continue to focus on improving supports for youth transitioning out of foster care. Recent analysis highlights barriers to accessing Chafee funds, along with legislative efforts aimed at strengthening services and improving outcomes for young people.
- Bipartisan Foster Youth Agenda | Journey to Success