Protecting Access to Spiritual Treatment and Organized Religion Act of 2026

United States119th CongressHR-9851House of Representatives
Updated: Jul 22, 2026

Summary

This bill proposes to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to mandate that healthcare providers allow patients access to clergy. Specifically, it requires providers of services to permit a member of clergy designated by an individual to access that individual upon request. This provision is set to become effective on January 1, 2028 , and applies even during emergency waivers. The designated clergy member must adhere to specific safety measures and other protocols, which will be determined by the Secretary in consultation with healthcare providers, states, and religious organizations.

Bill texts

Available versions
Introduced (House)View official text

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Timeline

  1. Introduced in House

  2. Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

    House of Representatives

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