WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on Tuesday repealed key portions of a federal nursing home staffing rule, a move officials say will ease pressure on long-term care facilities—particularly those in rural and Tribal communities struggling with workforce shortages.

The repealed provisions were part of the Minimum Staffing Standards for Long-Term Care Facilities rule finalized by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in 2024. HHS determined the previous administration’s requirements placed disproportionate strain on facilities and risked reducing patient access to care.

The decision aligns with the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and is intended to promote what HHS calls “practical, sustainable approaches” to improving nursing home care.

“Sa

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