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Author: Chris Findlay

Court Strikes Down Minimum Staffing Mandate, 24/7 Nurse Requirement

April 21, 2025

BY: Sarah Dobson

On April 7, a federal judge in Texas knocked down the Biden Administration’s April 2024 Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services rule that mandated minimum staffing levels at skilled nursing facilities. In making his decision in favor of plaintiffs challenging the mandate, Judge Matthew J. Kacsmaryk ruled that CMS exceeded their authority and that their regulatory action was not consistent with Congress’s legislation governing nursing homes.

The rule would have mandated that all nursing homes that receive Medicare and Medicaid funding provide a total of at least 3.48 hours of nursing care per resident per day. In addition, nursing homes would have had to have a registered nurse onsite at all times.

Lutheran Services in America has long advocated against these mandates, given the significant negative impact they would have had on access to care, especially in rural areas. We will continue to raise our unified, faith-based voice to ask Congress to permanently block the staffing mandate through legislation.

Sarah Dobson is Senior Director of Advocacy and Public Policy at Lutheran Services in America.

How a Robot is Advancing Memory Care for Older Adults

April 21, 2025

BY: Ashley Washington

Older adults who experience the loss of cognitive functioning are often more susceptible to social isolation. Loneliness can take an enormous toll on one’s physical, mental, and emotional health. It’s a reality that pushes our network to focus on finding person-centered solutions that embrace new and innovative approaches to improve social engagement—and thus the quality of life—for older adults in memory care.

Through a continuing partnership with the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) Foundation, Lutheran Services in America launched a pilot program with our member organization Lyngblomsten in Minnesota to explore how artificial intelligence-powered robots can meaningfully engage older adults with memory loss. This work is an example of how our network is catalyzing innovation and collaboration for impact—one of our core strategies to advance health and opportunity for all.

A Robot That Cares

Over the past year, two memory care campuses in Anoka and Ramsey Counties welcomed Temi, the newest team member at Lyngblomsten. Temi navigates independently, engages older adults individually, and interacts with residents based on each person’s interests, which are collected through family intake questionnaires. From playing a favorite card game to guiding gentle exercises or offering reminiscence therapy through music, Temi adapts to meet older adults where they are, literally and emotionally.

The response has been overwhelmingly positive. One resident calls Temi her go-to partner for a daily game of solitaire (no more shuffling required!). Another resident uses Temi as a walking companion who plays favorite hymns along the way and helps her stay physically active while bringing joy in her daily routine. Moreover, staff and family caregivers report seeing improved moods and stronger daily engagement.

“The robot has been embraced by staff, residents and family caregivers as part of the Lyngblomsten team in promoting person-centered care,” said Jeff Heinecke, president and CEO of Lyngblomsten.

What We’ve Learned

Originally intended for use across independent and assisted living settings, the pilot shifted focus exclusively to memory care residents after early results showed the greatest impact amongst this group. The robot’s ability to deliver consistent, individualized engagement, especially for those who may struggle to advocate for themselves, has become a valuable complement to staff-led activities.

Group sessions with Temi showed promise, with one-on-one interactions proving to be even more meaningful. With those results in mind, Lyngblomsten is now expanding implementation into community-based memory care programs, offering this powerful tool to older adults and families living outside of campus settings—people who might not otherwise have access to this opportunity.

“Our partnership with the CTA Foundation is a powerful force for good, uniting technology and innovation to expand support for older adults and family caregivers across the country,” said Alesia Frerichs, president and CEO of Lutheran Services in America.

Leading Together

We’re constantly evaluating how we can continue to innovate to better support older adults communities with quality care for underserved households. This pilot program allows us to collaborate with forward-thinking partners like the CTA Foundation and leverage new technologies like Temi the robot. Together with our member organizations, our network is reinventing what it means to redefine care.

In our past six years of partnership with the CTA Foundation, we have brought investment and visibility to the following projects:

  • Virtual reality devices to provide shared immersive experiences for homebound older adults and caregivers at Evertrue
  • Google Glasses for virtual caregiver education of loved ones with dementia at Samaritas
  • Technology stations within affordable housing at Graceworks
  • iPads, tablets, and hotspots for older adult and caregiver connections at LSS Minnesota

Reach out to me to learn more about how we’re evaluating outcomes and what implementation could look like in your setting.

Ashley Washington is Senior Director of Aging Initiatives & Member Experience at Lutheran Services in America.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Announces Major Changes: What It Means for Our Network

April 1, 2025

BY: Sarah Dobson

What’s Happening?

On March 27, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced an extensive restructuring, including a reduction in workforce of about 10,000 full-time employees and a consolidation of their 28 divisions into 15 new divisions, one of which will be a new Administration for a Healthy America, or AHA. Regional offices will be reduced from 10 to five.

We are actively working to understand the implications of these major changes.  Below is a summary of what we know to date. As we learn more specific details, we will update you, and please reach out to us with questions.

What is Changing?

The restructuring includes the following actions:

  • The creation of the Administration for a Healthy America (AHA): the new division will combine multiple agencies — the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health (OASH), the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) — into a single new entity.
  • The reorganization of the Administration for Community Living (ACL): critical programs that support older adults and people of all ages with disabilities will be integrated into other HHS agencies, including the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE), and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

At the same time, HHS is also “discontinuing” $12 billion in existing grants from SAMHSA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that were being used for tracking infectious diseases, mental health services, addiction treatment and other urgent health issues, and which were originally allocated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically:

  • $1 billion from SAMHSA to states to address mental health and substance use disorder, which was to be spent by September.
  • The grants in question were authorized and appropriated by Congress, and their termination may lead to new lawsuits. Several states said they were exploring legal options.

What Do We Know About the Potential Impact of the Announcement?

  • The ACL serves as a hub across HHS and with other Departments to coordinate services and supports critical to disabled people and older adults, such as Long-term Services and Supports (LTSS) and affordable housing, facilitating federal, state and local cross-sector partnerships focused on efficient use of limited resources. As we learn more about these changes, we will continue to provide updates since we recognize the potential impacts to many network members.
  • SAMHSA, which is charged with advancing behavioral health and improving the lives of people with mental health needs and substance use disorder (SUD), will reportedly see a cut of upwards of 50% of its staff as it is consolidated into the new AHA. Network members who receive grant funding directly through SAMHSA may be impacted.
  • Among the cuts to agency staff will be 300 employees of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS.)

What Happens Next?

  • HHS is continuing to make updates on its more specific plans for the restructuring and how existing divisions, programs, and funding will be impacted.
  • We will be especially monitoring for more details about the nature of the changes to ACL, SAMHSA, and CMS, and what they mean for the federal funding landscape.

Much is unclear and unknown, but Lutheran Services in America is actively working to understand more about how these changes will impact our network and those we work with.  Please reach out with any questions to Sue Polis, Vice President of Government Relations & Advocacy, or Sarah Dobson, Senior Director of Public Policy and Advocacy.

Lutheran Services in America Partners with WETA for Outreach for Caregiving Documentary

March 20, 2025

Housing Update: HUD and LIHTC

March 12, 2025

BY: Sue Polis

HUD Staffing

Our partners at the National Low Income Housing Coalition are circulating a sign-on letter to address the planned staff changes at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Trump Administration is expected to terminate at least half of all HUD employees, making it significantly more difficult for states and communities to access the federal housing, community development, and homelessness investments they need to address their most pressing challenges. Learn more.

ICYMI: The National Homelessness Law Center recently hosted a web forum on Trump, Homelessness and the Road Ahead. Access the recording and transcript.

LIHTC

The Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act (AHCIA) is bipartisan legislation introduced in the House and Senate to expand and strengthen the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) to encourage private investment in the development and preservation of affordable housing. The Action Campaign is seeking help to build broader support and co-sponsorship for this bill. You can learn more here.

Sue Polis is Vice President of Public Relations and Government Affairs at Lutheran Services in America.

What’s Next on Medicaid Fight

March 12, 2025

BY: Sue Polis

With the budget reconciliation process currently moving forward in Congress, the risk of cuts to Medicaid looms large. Lawmakers are looking for significant funding reductions to offset the majority’s plans for permanently extending tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans, with proposals that could drastically impact healthcare access for millions of people. The result would be reduced eligibility and enrollment in Medicaid for families, rural communities, older adults, and people with disabilities.

A Recap of What’s Happening

Key House and Senate committees are tasked with identifying substantial funding cuts based on differing House and Senate budget resolutions. The House budget reconciliation effort calls for one large budget package aimed at $4.5 trillion in cuts at the request of President Trump, while the Senate has opted for a two-phase approach to budget reconciliation. To move forward, the House bill essentially has to be adopted by the Senate. House Republicans are pushing the Senate to adopt their plan and Senate Republicans are working to find a path to the needed 51 votes. As this moves forward, significant cuts to Medicaid stay on the table.

Specifically, the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which oversees Medicaid, is looking for $880 billion in cuts to health-related programs. (See the recent nonpartisan CBO analysis of the House bill that identifies Medicaid as the path to cuts.)

Cuts to Medicaid can take many forms, including work reporting requirements, per capita caps, and restrictions on provider taxes that states use to fund their share of Medicaid.

What’s Next?

With all this in mind, it is important to meet with your members of Congress to ensure “No Cuts or Caps to Medicaid.” Here is what you can do:

  • Reach out to your members of Congress to educate them on the real-life impacts of Medicaid cuts by requesting a meeting or inviting your member(s) for a site visit to see the work of your organizations.
  • Since states share Medicaid funding responsibilities with the federal government, communicating with your governor’s office is also important. Congress is considering eliminating the use of provider taxes, which in most cases covers the state portion of the program – resulting in devastating cuts to Medicaid.
  • Use our Medicaid fact sheet to help guide your discussions and highlight the importance of the program.

Also, don’t miss our next Capitol Conversations webinar, Medicaid: What’s at Stake, on March 20 at 1 p.m. ET. We’ll hear from House Energy and Commerce Committee staff, including Leo Cuello from the McCourt School of Public Policy’s Center for Children and Families at Georgetown University, along with other important voices with insights and updates.

Sue Polis is Vice President of Public Relations and Government Affairs at Lutheran Services in America.

Our Time Together

February 11, 2025

BY: Alesia Frerichs

This year’s CEO Summit was an inspiring gathering where ideas ignited, partnerships flourished, and friendships deepened. Our goal is always to create a program with unique, high-impact content, and this year was no exception. Over two and a half days, we didn’t just discuss today’s challenges—we explored the possibilities of tomorrow. And we did it together—united by our shared faith tradition of service.

When we come together, good things happen. We can move mountains. We can make a difference.

We launched the summit with Matt Ranen, whose 10-year scenario planning workshop helped us think beyond the present while staying grounded in today’s realities. Neuroscience shows that envisioning long-term futures sparks creativity and strengthens resilience—qualities that make us more effective leaders.

Rodney Whitlock and Mark McClellan provided key insights into the priorities of the new administration and Congress, fueling critical discussions throughout the summit. Together, we reflected on the impact of recent executive orders on families, our programs, and our communities. We were also joined by thought leaders and experts from across the country, including Patrick Briaud, Cheryl Fisher,  Ron Hetrick, and Davis Baird, who led deep-dive breakout sessions on public-private housing partnerships, healthcare collaboration, the ‘forgotten middle,’ and workforce challenges.

On Wednesday, we turned our focus to artificial intelligence with Nabiha Syed, and Nathan Chappell—examining our responsibility and the partnerships necessary to lead responsibly in this space.

We also took time to celebrate leadership, honoring this year’s distinguished award recipients—Sam Sipes, Colleen Frankenfield, and Linda Timmons. Throughout the summit, we identified new strategies and collaborative efforts to strengthen our collective leadership. With guidance from our resident theologian, Mark Huber, our days were framed with moments of prayer and reflection, reinforcing our shared purpose.

Looking ahead, we anticipate challenges that will test our fortitude and stretch our creativity. But that is the beauty of this community—our strength lies in our unity. Together, we will transform these moments into opportunities to lead, innovate, and create lasting impact. And as we move forward, our united faith-based voice will not only be heard—it will lead the way.

It is greatly appreciated as we continue to work forward, guided by our shared faith tradition of service in, with and for community. We are reminded that as Lutherans, we are called to do God’s work in a complex world. And with all the current confusion and disruption, we remain steadfastly committed to our work with all partners across federal, state and local levels and efforts. As you know, it is in these times that also bring clarifying moments, and this reminds us of the essential nature of our work and the work of our members in meeting the needs of all individuals and communities across the country, while also supporting the firm resolve to push forward.

You Won’t Want to Miss It!

 

Alesia Frerichs is the President & CEO of Lutheran Services in America.

Update: Federal Funding Freeze

February 11, 2025

BY: Sue Polis and Sarah Dobson

The federal funding freeze announced by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on January 27 created widespread uncertainty in our sector. The directive temporarily blocked disbursement of federal grants and loans—excluding programs like Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and SNAP—to ensure compliance with recent executive orders.

Still, initial confusion about the directive’s scope led to intended and unintended disruptions, including delays in different types of program funding. Although OMB later clarified that many essential programs would continue without interruption, concerns remain regarding the impact on Section 8 housing vouchers, school food programs, and other key initiatives.

In response, lawsuits have been filed by nonprofits and state governments. On February 3, a federal judge granted a temporary restraining order, halting the freeze. This follows a similar ruling by another judge after a separate lawsuit. Despite these legal interventions, reports of payment delays continue.

Lutheran Services in America president and CEO Alesia Frerichs issued a statement highlighting the disruptive effects on Lutheran social ministries. We are actively engaging with coalition partners and monitoring developments.

TAKE ACTION:

  • We encourage you to join us in taking action by calling your members of Congress and governors to express concerns about the funding freeze’s impact.
  • Please share information on any interruptions or challenges your organization is still experiencing. Contact Sue Polis or Sarah Dobson.

Sue Polis is Vice President of Public Relations and Government Affairs at Lutheran Services in America. Sarah Dobson is Senior Director of Advocacy and Public Policy at Lutheran Services in America.

New Americans and the Lutheran Response

February 11, 2025

BY: Alesia Frerichs

Three weeks into the new administration, Lutheran social ministry finds itself juggling multiple challenges at once. A recent tweet amplified by Elon Musk spread false claims about Lutheran social ministries, questioning our legitimacy and use of federal funds. This misinformation quickly gained traction on social media.

Lutheran Services in America acted swiftly to coordinate a comprehensive response. Collaborating with Bishop Eaton, Global Refuge, and community partners, we aligned messaging and mobilized grassroots support. Member organizations shared their immediate needs, ensuring they could continue to serve their communities effectively.

This coordinated effort received strong support both inside and outside the faith community. Many people who have been touched by our work shared their stories about how Lutheran social ministries saved their lives. Together we ensure that individuals and communities relying on our services can continue to live full and active lives. As Martin Luther reminds us, “God does not need your good works, but your neighbor does.”

Alesia Frerichs is the President & CEO of Lutheran Services in America.

Threats to Medicaid in 2025: Take Action with Us

February 10, 2025

BY: Sarah Dobson

Based on recent statements and policy agendas from Congressional majority leaders who now control both the House and the Senate with the start of the new Congress, it is clear that they are seeking deep cuts to Medicaid and other domestic programs. Lutheran Services in America has two opportunities for you to join us to protect Medicaid.

  • Join us on February 13 at 1 p.m. ET for the next session of our Capitol Conversations series, “What’s at Stake: Medicaid at Risk in the Expiring Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.”
    • This webinar will provide a unique opportunity to hear directly from key policymakers, leading experts, and Lutheran Services in America staff as we explore the latest legislative developments under the new Congress, the risks they pose to Medicaid, and what’s at stake for our network and the communities we support.
  • Take Action: We invite you to use our advocacy tool to  urge your lawmakers to protect Medicaid and oppose any legislation that seeks to cap, cut, or block grant Medicaid. We encourage you to personalize the message, including stories of how important Medicaid is to the work that you and your organization do, and to share this message with your colleagues and partners.

This is a critical moment for action. Join us in using our united faith-based voice to strengthen our collective advocacy and ensure our mission remains at the heart of this national conversation.

Sarah Dobson is Senior Director of Advocacy and Public Policy at Lutheran Services in America.

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