In the latest episode of Pillar Talk, Chris dives into three key articles impacting the post-acute care sector. The first article focuses on proposed changes to the Value-Based Purchasing Program (VBP) by CMS, including a 4.1% increase in Medicare payments to skilled nursing facilities. However, concerns arise regarding potential reductions in rates for certain facilities and the expansion of CMS's regulatory powers. Moving on, the discussion shifts to a second article addressing staffing mandates for nursing homes, with Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra facing scrutiny over proposed regulations. The debate exposes partisan divides and questions the feasibility of staffing mandates amidst concerns about financial burdens and practical implementation. Finally, the Chris reflects on the broader implications of these regulatory proposals and urges active participation in the public comment period to ensure informed decision-making for the post-acute care sector.