WASHINGTON— The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) issued a statement in response to the passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services (HHS), and Education, and Related Agencies spending bill, which became law this week as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 (H.R. 7148). 

Juliet K. Choi, President and CEO of APIAHF gave the following statement:

“We applaud Congress for taking decisive, bipartisan action to fund critical health programs in the FY2026 Labor-HHS-Education appropriations bill – investments that are vital to the nation’s long-term health and wellbeing. 

“This bill sustains and, in some cases, increases much-needed funding for healthcare workforce training, biomedical research, new directives to address the mental health needs for Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander youth. It also reaffirms a strong commitment to the Health Resources and Services Administration and its Health Centers Program—a cornerstone of the nation’s healthcare safety net that delivers essential primary and preventive care to millions of patients nationwide. APIAHF has consistently advocated for robust investments in these vital programs that directly serve our communities. 

“Beyond investments in public health infrastructure, congressional leaders bolstered language access services, including directing HHS to develop best practices for improving telehealth access for people with limited English proficiency.

“The FY26 Appropriations Act reflects tireless advocacy—from national coalitions to state and local partners, and from constituents across the country—calling on Congress to legislate in ways that reflect the diverse needs of our communities. This action represents meaningful progress, and we look forward to continued collaboration with the 119th Congress to build on these gains.”

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The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities, and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders.