U.S. Reps. Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Greg Murphy (R-NC) recently proposed legislation to allow taxpayers who are members of the Health Care Sharing Ministries (HCSMs) to deduct payments made as part of their ministry membership in their federal taxes.
“Americans should have choices when it comes to their health care. For many families, traditional insurance is a great option. For some, however, particularly people of faith, alternative options such as [HCSMs] more closely align with their values,” Rep. Kelly said. “It’s time we focus on initiatives that reintroduce freedom and dignity back to our healthcare system.”
Rep. Kelly on March 11 sponsored the Health Care Sharing Ministry Tax Parity Act, H.R. 2062, with two original cosponsors, including Rep. Murphy, to classify regular HCSM expenses as eligible medical care expenses.
“Expanding options for Americans to cover healthcare costs is essential to consumer freedom and creating competition in the marketplace,” said Rep. Murphy. “Individuals who opt to utilize [HCSMs] deserve the same tax benefits those who have traditional health insurance enjoy.”
H.R. 2062 has been referred to the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee for consideration.