Preventative healthcare would become more affordable for United States military veterans under a bipartisan, bicameral bill cosponsored on May 20 by U.S. Rep. Anthony Gonzalez (R-OH).
“When it comes to supporting the men and women who selflessly sacrificed so much to defend our country, there is truly never enough we can do to repay them for their service,” Gonzalez said. “Our veterans deserve affordable access to quality preventive medical care and services.”
The Veterans Preventive Health Coverage Fairness Act, H.R. 3452, which Rep. Gonzalez introduced with bill sponsor U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-IL), would eliminate veterans’ copayments for medication, hospital care and medical services for preventive healthcare that are provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The companion bill, S. 1779, was introduced on May 20 as well by U.S. Sens. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Susan Collins (R-ME).
If enacted, the measure would require the VA to cover services such as immunizations, mental health screenings, well-woman health visits and breast cancer screenings more affordable for veterans by eliminating copays, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Gonzalez’s office.
The proposal is supported by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, Paralyzed Veterans of America, and Disabled American Veterans.
Rep. Gonzalez in 2019 introduced the same-named bill in his chamber while the U.S. Senate version also was introduced that year. Both bills stalled in committee.
“I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance this legislation,” said Rep. Gonzalez last week.