Bipartisan Legislation Aims to Eliminate Out-of-Pocket Costs for Veterans Receiving COVID-19 Vaccinations and Preventive Services

Strategic Insights -

Representatives Lauren Underwood (IL-14), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Lee Zeldin (NY-01), and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) introduced the No Coronavirus Copays for Veterans Act to eliminate cost barriers to COVID-19 vaccinations for veterans in the House of Representatives. The legislation, endorsed by American Veterans (AMVETS) and the Service Women's Action Network (SWAN), seeks to extend federal protections included in the CARES Act for civilians to veterans receiving VHA care.

Key Takeaways:

  • The No Coronavirus Copays for Veterans Act aims to eliminate out-of-pocket costs for veterans receiving COVID-19 vaccinations and other qualifying coronavirus preventive services.
  • The legislation would ensure that veterans receiving health care from the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) are not liable for out-of-pocket costs for qualifying coronavirus preventive services.
  • The companion legislation, led in the Senate by Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), is expected to be introduced in the coming weeks.
  • The bill is endorsed by American Veterans (AMVETS) and the Service Women's Action Network (SWAN).
  • The removal of financial barriers would benefit veterans who receive VHA care, as they would not have to pay for COVID-19 vaccines or other preventive services.

Statistics:

  • 0: The out-of-pocket cost for veterans receiving COVID-19 vaccinations and other qualifying coronavirus preventive services would be eliminated under the proposed legislation.
  • 4: The number of Representatives who introduced the No Coronavirus Copays for Veterans Act, including Underwood, Brownley, Zeldin, and Fitzpatrick.
  • 2: The number of organizations endorsing the bill, American Veterans (AMVETS) and the Service Women's Action Network (SWAN).

Sources:

Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14)

Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26)

Congressman Lee Zeldin (NY-01)

Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01)

Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)

American Veterans (AMVETS)

Service Women's Action Network (SWAN)