Extension of the Medicare-dependent hospital (MDH) program

(a) In general Section 1886(d)(5)(G) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395ww(d)(5)(G)) is amended— (1) in clause (i), by striking January 31, 2026 and inserting January 1, 2027; and (2) in clause (ii)(II), by striking January 31, 2026 and inserting January 1, 2027. (b) Conforming amendments (1) In general Section 1886(b)(3)(D) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395ww(b)(3)(D)) is amended— (A) in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking January 31, 2026 and inserting January 1, 2027; and (B) in clause (iv), by striking through fiscal year 2025 and the portion of fiscal year 2026 beginning on October 1, 2025, and ending on January 30, 2026 and inserting through fiscal year 2026 and the portion of fiscal year 2027 beginning on October 1, 2026, and ending on December 31, 2026. (2) Permitting hospitals to decline reclassification Section 13501(e)(2) of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993 (42 U.S.C. 1395ww note) is amended by striking through fiscal year 2025, or the portion of fiscal year 2026 beginning on October 1, 2025, and ending on January 30, 2026 and inserting through fiscal year 2026, or the portion of fiscal year 2027 beginning on October 1, 2026, and ending on December 31, 2026.