FSMB advocates for state medical boards at the federal and state level, helping to amplify their voice in the policies that shape medical regulation. This work supports patient safety, quality healthcare, and regulatory best practices nationwide.

Supporting State Medical Boards

Located in Washington, D.C., FSMB’s advocacy staff assist state medical boards through policy development, legislative tracking, and communications support. Staff also educate legislators and government officials on the role state medical boards play in protecting the public, regularly meeting with members of Congress, administration officials, healthcare reporters, and other leaders to advocate for state-based medical regulation. 

Federal Legislative Affairs

FSMB develops and implements strategies to represent the interests of state medical boards before Congress and health administration officials. On behalf of state medical boards, FSMB: 

• Facilitates congressional meetings for medical boards
• Monitors congressional hearings and the introduction of federal legislation
• Engages directly with federal agencies
• Participates in agency-sponsored task forces
• Drafts letters of endorsement and testimony on national issues impacting medical regulation. 

State Legislative Affairs

At the state level, FSMB supports state medical boards by: 

• Promoting state legislation that positively impacts medical regulation
• Identifying legislative trends as they develop
• Drafting correspondence to federal and state officials
• Drafting and presenting testimony to support member medical boards' initiatives or to reinforce opposition to specific legislative initiatives
• Tracking legislation of interest

Policy Development

Each year, FSMB convenes state medical board representatives and subject matter experts to study emerging topics and trends in medical regulation and develop policy recommendations. These policies give state medical boards consistent guidance on pressing issues in medical practice and regulation, helping protect the public and strengthen the quality, safety, and integrity of healthcare.