Ohio   

Ohio ACEP celebrated the signing of HB 452 preventing hospital violence, and the Senate’s passage of the Naloxone Bill (HB57). The chapter continues to advocate for physician-led care and a stronger prudent layperson standard. A record-breaking Residents’ Assembly attendance and strong educational programs highlighted another successful year as the chapter launched a Certifying Exam Prep Course.

Oregon

In 2025, OCEP secured key legislative wins to limit private equity in medicine, reduce non-competes, prevent violence against health care workers, and ease ED gridlock. In 2026, OCEP plans to fight Medicaid cuts, work to ease ED boarding, support workplace violence prevention, advocate fair reimbursement, and oppose AI-driven denials. OCEP plans to continue discussing these efforts at the 42nd Annual Winter Conference in Sunriver, February 2-4.

Pennsylvania

Emerging from a period of loss and change made PACEP stronger. This year saw record attendance at PACEP’s Annual Scientific Assembly, a strong ACEP Council performance, numerous members receiving national awards, and state advocacy progress including contributing to key legislation, collaborating with the Department of Health on ED overcrowding, and holding the chapter’s first Hill Day at the state Capitol.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico ACEP hosted its Stroke Summit in December, bringing together clinicians, EMS leaders, administrators, and government partners to advance equitable stroke care. The event fostered productive collaboration and strengthened momentum toward coordinated, sustainable strategies to improve stroke outcomes across Puerto Rico.

Rhode Island

RI ACEP, in collaboration with the Rhode Island Medical Society, helped secure key wins for emergency physicians in 2025, including passage of prior authorization reform eliminating delays for primary care-ordered services, Medicaid rate increases up to 100 percent of Medicare, and protections for clinician wellness through the Clinician Wellness and Support Act. The chapter also continued advocacy on malpractice reform and efforts to address ED boarding and workforce shortages statewide.

South Carolina

The South Carolina chapter was successful in introducing and passing legislation requiring EDs to have a physician present at all times, becoming the third state in the nation to pass this type of law. Board members and Councilors represented SC ACEP members at LAC, at the ACEP25 Council, and in meetings with federal lawmakers. Looking forward, the chapter is working with legislators to enhance penalties for workplace violence against health care workers.

South Dakota

The chapter has been meeting and working to bring back the educational conference for emergency physicians and members of the emergency care team in South Dakota.