Native Americans who are regularly treated at Indian Health Service (IHS) facilities would receive improved access to federal Health Savings Accounts (HSA) under bipartisan legislation proposed by U.S. Rep. John Moolenaar (R-MI).
“Native Americans should be able to save money for their health care like everyone else can. Unfortunately, current law stops them from doing so,” Rep. Moolenaar said. “It does not make sense that Native Americans must wait three months to begin contributing to their HSAs.”
Rep. Moolenaar on Sept. 18 sponsored the Native American Health Savings Improvement Act, H.R. 5546, alongside four original cosponsors, including U.S. Reps. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), and Raul Ruiz (D-CA).
If enacted, H.R. 5546 would amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to permit individuals eligible for IHS assistance to qualify for HSAs without a waiting period.
“I am proud to introduce this meaningful bipartisan legislation that eliminates an unnecessary rule and promotes health savings for Native Americans in Michigan and across the country,” said Rep. Moolenaar.
The U.S. House Ways and Means Committee is considering the bill, which Rep. Ruiz said is critical at ending a barrier in the nation’s healthcare system.
“Currently, Native Americans receiving care at IHS facilities face a three-month waiting period before they can contribute to their HSAs,” he said. “I’m proud to introduce this bill alongside Rep. Moolenaar to help ensure equity in healthcare access by providing immediate HSA access.”