H.R.1742 - Access to Reproductive Care for Servicemembers Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1742, the "Access to Reproductive Care for Servicemembers Act," seeks to establish leave policies within the Armed Forces that allow members to seek abortion services and assisted reproductive technologies (ART). The bill mandates that the Secretary concerned must consider such care time-sensitive and approve leave accordingly, without requiring disclosure of the specific procedure. It also provides for reimbursement of travel costs when timely access to these services is not available near the member's location.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would ensure that servicemembers have access to reproductive healthcare, including abortion and fertility treatments, regardless of state laws or the location of their duty station. This could lead to increased access to care and potentially improve the well-being and retention of military personnel. The bill also aims to protect the privacy of servicemembers seeking such care and prevent adverse actions against them for doing so.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures access to reproductive healthcare for servicemembers, regardless of location.
- Protects the privacy of servicemembers seeking abortion or fertility care.
- Prevents adverse actions against servicemembers for seeking or providing reproductive healthcare.
- Addresses potential barriers to fertility care, including financial and logistical challenges.
- May improve military readiness and retention by supporting the health and well-being of servicemembers.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential conflict with state laws regarding abortion access.
- Concerns about the use of federal funds for abortion-related travel, which may be opposed by some.
- Possible objections from individuals or groups with moral or religious objections to abortion.
- Could create administrative burdens for the Department of Defense in implementing and managing the leave and reimbursement policies.
- May face legal challenges based on constitutional or statutory grounds.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is complex. Supporters may argue it aligns with the principles of individual liberty and equal protection under the Fifth Amendment. Opponents might argue that it infringes upon states' rights or violates the separation of powers by potentially conflicting with existing federal laws or policies regarding abortion funding. The bill does not directly implicate the First Amendment.
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).