H.R.1014 - Specialist Joey Lenz Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1014, the Specialist Joey Lenz Act of 2025, aims to amend Title 10 of the United States Code, mandating the Secretary of Defense to include specific tests as part of the periodic health assessments for members of the Armed Forces. These tests include annual sports physicals, electrocardiograms, and comprehensive blood work. The bill also incorporates any legally required tests and evaluations deemed appropriate by the Secretary.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would lead to more comprehensive health monitoring for service members. This could result in earlier detection of health issues and improved overall health outcomes. The changes would be implemented starting in 2026.
Potential Benefits
- Improved Health Outcomes: Regular and comprehensive health assessments can lead to early detection and treatment of medical conditions.
- Enhanced Readiness: Healthier service members contribute to a more ready and capable military force.
- Preventative Care Focus: The bill emphasizes preventative care, potentially reducing long-term healthcare costs.
- Standardized Testing: Ensures all service members receive a baseline level of care and monitoring.
- Potential for Increased Morale: Demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of military personnel.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Healthcare Costs: Implementing these additional tests will likely increase the Department of Defense's healthcare expenditures.
- Administrative Burden: Managing and processing the increased volume of tests could create an administrative burden.
- Potential for False Positives: More tests could lead to a higher rate of false positive results, causing unnecessary anxiety and further testing.
- Strain on Resources: Increased demand for testing may strain existing healthcare resources within the military health system.
- Privacy Concerns: Increased collection of personal health data raises potential privacy concerns.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the constitutional mandate to provide for the common defense and promote the general welfare, as outlined in the Preamble. Congress has the power to raise and support armies (Article I, Section 8), which implicitly includes ensuring the health and readiness of military personnel. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).