30 Leaders Track Legislation Impacting Their Industries

Thirty leaders from the Fast Company Impact Council are actively tracking various pieces of federal and state legislation that are poised to reshape their industries. These leaders are engaging with policy discussions to advocate for or against measures that could impact their operations, customers, and business models. The legislation being monitored spans a wide range of sectors, from chemical management to healthcare and beyond, with a common theme of ensuring that regulatory decisions are grounded in scientific evidence and rigorous research.

Michael Lefenfeld of Hexion is closely observing chemical management and risk evaluation policies at both federal and state levels. He emphasizes the importance of regulatory decisions being based on credible science and rigorous research, noting that these policies directly influence innovation, manufacturing processes, and the safe application of essential chemistries. Hexion collaborates with organizations like the American Chemistry Council to integrate scientific expertise and industry perspectives into policy debates, advocating for science-based decision-making to foster innovation, maintain manufacturing competitiveness, and support economic growth while safeguarding public health and the environment.

Glen Tullman of Transcarent is focusing on federal healthcare transparency legislation, specifically mentioning the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act of 2026 and the Patients Deserve Price Tags Act. He highlights the significant pressure employers face in managing escalating healthcare costs and how these legislative efforts aim to provide clearer access to price, claims, payment, and fee data. This enhanced transparency is intended to empower employers to make more informed decisions regarding employee benefits. Tullman asserts that transparency is not about favoring any particular party but about establishing a shared framework for employers, health plans, pharmacy benefit managers, and healthcare providers to compete based on value, improve accountability, and ultimately make quality healthcare more affordable.

Further examples of monitored legislation include the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' (CMS) Kidney Care Choices Model, indicating a broad spectrum of regulatory interests among the council members. The collective focus underscores the critical role of legislative and regulatory frameworks in shaping the operational landscape, innovation potential, and economic viability of diverse industries. Business leaders are actively engaging to ensure that policy development aligns with scientific understanding and promotes sustainable growth and public well-being.