ACHA Advocacy: What’s New in 2026

The American College Health Association’s advocacy and policy efforts are guided by its Policy Platform and Policy Priorities Agenda. Each year, both documents undergo a comprehensive review and update process led by ACHA’s government affairs partners, the ACHA Advocacy Committee, and the ACHA Board, with updates informed by feedback from ACHA members. The Policy Platform offers a high-level overview of health and well-being policies relevant to ACHA and its membership, while the Policy Priorities Agenda is a living document that directs the Association’s specific policy actions and initiatives throughout the year.

In January, the ACHA Board approved the 2026 ACHA Policy Priorities Agenda, emphasizing continuity of care for students and investment in mental health. ACHA will continue work to secure policies that ensure the continuation of physical and mental health services for students regardless of geographical locations. Such policies would enable college health and well-being providers to maintain clinical relationships with students, even while students are across state lines. Work associated with these efforts includes the introduction of the College Students Continuation of Mental Health Care Act (HR 5357). Learn more about ACHA’s work to advance this Act.

The approved Priorities Agenda also includes advocating for investment in college student mental health through the Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE) and the reauthorization of the Garrett Lee Smith Campus Suicide Prevention grant programs. You can find the complete 2026 ACHA Policy Priorities Agenda here.

In terms of the ACHA Policy Platform, the document was modified to contain updated membership figures and connecting resources, ensuring that the information accurately reflects ACHA’s current reach and provides members with clear pathways to relevant tools and supports.

ACHA continues to position itself as a leader in advocating for policies that foster healthier and more supportive college communities. Should you have any questions, feedback, or things you think should be considered for either of the documents, you can email advocacy@acha.org or supply anonymously here. Particularly appreciated are real-world examples of how federal policies and funding, or the lack thereof, are positively or negatively impacting student success on your campus.