Rep. Mike Kelly
Membership in healthcare sharing ministries (HCSMs) would qualify for the medical expenses deduction under legislation sponsored by U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA).
“It’s time we brought freedom, competition, and dignity back to our healthcare system,” Rep. Kelly said in introducing H.R. 3426 last week.
HCSMs are a form of health coverage in which members — who typically share a religious belief — make monthly payments to cover expenses of other members.
Specifically, H.R. 3426 would allow American taxpayers who are members of HCSMs to deduct expenses related to ministry membership on their tax returns if their medical expenses exceed an annual income threshold by making such expenses eligible medical expenditures, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Kelly’s staff.
“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 like Health Care Sharing Ministries might more closely align with their values,” said Rep. Kelly. “This legislation preserves that choice for families by allowing them to deduct expenses related to ministry membership on their tax returns in the same way they could if they paid a traditional insurance premium.”
Solidarity HealthShare supports H.R. 3426, which has been referred for consideration to the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee.