This bill aims to ensure veterans have equal access to contraception by establishing limitations on copayments for these services furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). It amends title 38, United States Code, specifically targeting the financial burden associated with contraceptive care for veterans. The legislation prohibits the VA from charging veterans an amount for contraceptive medication that exceeds the actual cost incurred by the Secretary. Crucially, it also mandates that no copayment can be imposed for any contraceptive item that is required to be covered without cost-sharing under section 2713(a)(4) of the Public Health Service Act. This provision aligns VA coverage with federal requirements for private health insurance, effectively eliminating out-of-pocket costs for many contraceptive methods. The overall intent is to remove financial barriers, making contraception more accessible for veterans.
Referred to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.
Armed Forces and National Security
Family planning and birth controlHealth care costs and insuranceHealth care coverage and accessVeterans' medical careWomen's health
Equal Access to Contraception for Veterans Act
USA119th CongressHR-211| House
| Updated: 2/6/2025
This bill aims to ensure veterans have equal access to contraception by establishing limitations on copayments for these services furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). It amends title 38, United States Code, specifically targeting the financial burden associated with contraceptive care for veterans. The legislation prohibits the VA from charging veterans an amount for contraceptive medication that exceeds the actual cost incurred by the Secretary. Crucially, it also mandates that no copayment can be imposed for any contraceptive item that is required to be covered without cost-sharing under section 2713(a)(4) of the Public Health Service Act. This provision aligns VA coverage with federal requirements for private health insurance, effectively eliminating out-of-pocket costs for many contraceptive methods. The overall intent is to remove financial barriers, making contraception more accessible for veterans.