Proposed Section 1557 Nondiscrimination Rule

Section 1557 protects individuals from discrimination by health programs or activities, including those that are HHS-funded or administered, based on their race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.

Published Oct. 07, 2022 | 1 min. read

CHA submitted comments on the proposed nondiscrimination rule that largely reinstates the ACA's Section 1557 nondiscrimination requirements that were rolled back by the prior administration. The restoration of these protections has significant implications on access to comprehensive child and family-centered health care services and programs that are affordable, timely and appropriate for all children and adolescents regardless of their race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, age or disability. Our comments highlight specific aspects of the proposed rule that are particularly important for our pediatric population and areas where we believe refinements are needed.

We also prepared a summary of the proposed rule that highlights key areas of interest for children's health, including the reinstatement of nondiscrimination requirements for all Department of Health and Human Services-funded and administered health programs and activities and for private insurers, as well as nondiscrimination protections based on gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy-related conditions, among other issues.

Related Content

Why the Pediatric Workforce Crisis Demands Federal Action

A congressional briefing highlighted how workforce shortages are threatening children’s access to care.

July 22, 2026

Medicaid: The History of Children’s Health

Learn what the public health insurance program’s past can teach us about the future for America’s kids.

July 21, 2026

CHA Responds to Medicaid State Directed Payment Proposed Rule

The comments outline key recommendations to mitigate the impact of the H.R. 1 Medicaid cuts on children’s health.

July 21, 2026