Dear INA Members,

As we move through another eventful quarter, I want to extend my appreciation for your ongoing dedication to our patients, our communities, and the future of our profession. It is a complex time, and your leadership matters more than ever.

Legislative Spotlight: The One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) and Medicaid Implications

The recent passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB)—also known as HR1—has stirred both attention and concern within the healthcare community. While the bill aims to streamline spending and promote national economic goals, one of the most significant provisions for nursing is the planned reduction in federal Medicaid funding over the next 10 years.

These projected Medicaid cuts could have serious and long-lasting consequences, especially for rural hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health programs that rely heavily on this funding to care for vulnerable populations. As nurses, we are often the first to witness how funding shifts translate to staffing shortages, reduced services, delayed discharges, and increased patient risk.

In Iowa—where we already face nursing shortages, rural hospital closures, and rising patient acuity—the potential impact cannot be overstated. INA is working to analyze the downstream effects of OBBB on the nursing workforce and to advocate for state-level strategies that protect access to care and maintain safe staffing.

We urge you to stay engaged. Your stories from the bedside and community are essential as we advocate with state leaders, health systems, and national partners. We will continue to share updates and invite your feedback as this legislation moves from policy into practice.

National Engagement: Membership Assembly Update

Each year, INA sends representatives to the American Nurses Association’s Membership Assembly in Washington, D.C. to contribute to the national conversation on nursing policy. This year, out of an abundance of caution due to recent military escalations involving Iran and growing global instability, we made the difficult decision not to send an in-person delegation.

This decision was not made lightly. Our presence at the national table matters—but so does the safety of our members. Though we were not physically present, we remained engaged through virtual sessions, correspondence, and policy input. We will continue to partner closely with ANA to ensure Iowa nurses remain part of the national dialogue.

Looking Ahead: Leading Through Uncertainty

We recognize that we are entering a season of many unknowns. From shifting federal priorities to global tensions, the path forward is not always clear. That’s why INA is collaborating closely with ANA to navigate what lies ahead. We’re committed to ensuring our members have accurate guidance, strong representation, and opportunities to lead the way forward.

Now more than ever, nurses must speak boldly, act wisely, and lead with courage. Thank you for the work you do and the lives you touch every day.

In solidarity,
Greg Opseth, MHA, BSN, RN
INA President