H.R.211 - Equal Access to Contraception for Veterans Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 211, the "Equal Access to Contraception for Veterans Act," aims to amend Title 38 of the United States Code to limit copayments for contraception furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs. The bill seeks to ensure that veterans do not pay more than the cost to the Secretary for contraception and receive coverage for contraceptive items without cost-sharing, aligning with standards set by the Public Health Service Act.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on January 6, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs. It is sponsored by Ms. Brownley and co-sponsored by several other representatives.
The core purpose is to improve access to contraception for veterans by reducing or eliminating out-of-pocket expenses.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to reduce the financial burden on veterans seeking contraception through the VA healthcare system. This could lead to increased utilization of contraceptive services, potentially improving reproductive health outcomes for veterans. It also aligns VA policy with broader healthcare standards regarding contraceptive coverage.
Potential Benefits
- Improved access to contraception for veterans.
- Reduced financial burden on veterans.
- Potential for improved reproductive health outcomes.
- Alignment of VA policy with broader healthcare standards.
- Increased equity in healthcare access for female veterans.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increase in costs for the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Possible administrative challenges in implementing the copayment limitations.
- Potential for political opposition based on differing views on reproductive health.
- Could be perceived as an expansion of government-funded healthcare.
- May not address all barriers to healthcare access for veterans, such as geographical limitations.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve the health and well-being of veterans. While the Constitution does not explicitly address healthcare, Congress has broad authority to legislate in areas related to the general welfare. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
However, some may argue about the scope of federal power in healthcare, raising questions about the balance between federal and state authority. The bill's focus on veterans, a group with a special relationship to the federal government due to their service, strengthens its constitutional justification.
Ultimately, the bill's constitutionality is likely to be upheld under the broad interpretation of the general welfare clause and Congress's power to provide for the military.
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).