Capitol Hill Briefing: August 25, 2026

The House Energy and Commerce Committee approved a bipartisan bill to overhaul telehealth regulations, clearing the way for expanded Medicare coverage of remote mental health services and removing restrictions on prescribing certain medications via video visits. The 38-to-2 vote sends the measure to the full chamber, where supporters from both parties predict passage before the August recess. Meanwhile, three separate spending negotiations hit snags as appropriators disagreed on funding levels for the Pentagon and domestic agencies, signaling potential contentious weeks ahead before the fiscal year closes September 30.

🏢 Committee Activity

📰 In the News

• House GOP faces complaint for using floor coverage in campaign materials – The Washington Post

• Democrat Resigns from Congress’ Dads Caucus as Its Chair Is Investigated over Sexual Assault Allegation – People.com

• Congress Supports Action for Human Rights in North Korea But Still Does Not Act – Korea Economic Institute of America –

• Trump Budget Proposal vs. Congress on Interior, Environment – Legis1

• Dem House hopeful defended music video showing woman restrained, groped and killed – Fox News

• Congress Starts the Continuing Resolution Process Earlier Than Ever – The Foundation for American Innovation

📊 See how every member voted on ThePolitibase. Data from Congress.gov, senate.gov, clerk.house.gov, and the FEC.