S.1231 - IVF for Military Families Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1231, the IVF for Military Families Act, proposes to amend Title 10 of the United States Code to include fertility treatment, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF), under the TRICARE program for active duty members of the uniformed services and their dependents. The bill mandates that the Secretary of Defense ensure coverage for fertility-related care, including up to three completed oocyte retrievals and unlimited embryo transfers, adhering to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine guidelines. It also establishes a program for fertility-related care coordination, providing training and support to community health care providers regarding the unique needs of military families.
Expected Effects
The bill aims to expand healthcare benefits for military families by providing access to fertility treatments. This would reduce the financial burden on service members seeking such treatments. The changes would apply to services provided on or after October 1, 2027.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to fertility treatments for active duty military members and their dependents.
- Reduced financial strain on military families seeking IVF.
- Improved healthcare benefits package for uniformed service members, potentially aiding recruitment and retention.
- Enhanced family and community well-being within the military community.
- Standardization of fertility treatment protocols under TRICARE, following American Society for Reproductive Medicine guidelines.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased costs to the TRICARE program, potentially requiring reallocation of resources from other areas.
- Potential ethical concerns related to the number of oocyte retrievals and embryo transfers.
- Delayed implementation, as the amendments apply to services provided on or after October 1, 2027.
- Possible administrative challenges in establishing and managing the fertility-related care coordination program.
- May not address the underlying causes of infertility within the military population, such as exposure to environmental hazards.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve the well-being of military families by providing access to healthcare services. Specifically, the Preamble states the goal to "promote the general Welfare". The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations. Congress has the power to legislate for the military under Article I, Section 8, which grants them the power to raise and support armies and provide and maintain a navy.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).