Bill > HR244

This bill seeks to expand TRICARE Select eligibility to veterans with service-connected disabilities by creating a new category of "covered veteran beneficiaries" who can enroll in the TRICARE program during the annual open enrollment season. Under the proposed legislation, these veterans would be subject to the same cost-sharing requirements as other TRICARE Select participants, regardless of their original military enlistment date. The bill stipulates that a covered veteran beneficiary cannot be simultaneously enrolled in both TRICARE and the VA health care system, meaning they must choose one program. The Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense would be required to reimburse each other for enrollment costs and jointly submit quarterly and annual reports on implementation and enrollment. The changes would take effect one year after the bill's enactment, with a phased implementation approach and a requirement for both departments to develop implementing regulations. Importantly, while a covered veteran can enroll in TRICARE Select, their dependents cannot enroll solely based on the veteran's enrollment. The bill aims to provide more healthcare options and flexibility for veterans with service-connected disabilities.

Health and Social Services, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/244/all-info