Equal Access to Contraception for Veterans Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. BOST. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 239, the Equal Access to Contraception for Veterans Act.

The bill would prohibit the VA from charging copayments to veterans for contraception.

Women are volunteering to serve our country in uniform in record numbers. When they separate from the service, they are seeking care from the VA in record numbers as well. Ensuring that those women receive the recognition, respect, and welcome they are owed is one of our highest priorities.

This bill would further that goal. I am glad to support it here today.

Copayments have been prohibited for contraception in the private sector for many years. This bill would bring the VA healthcare system in line with that precedent.

This bill passed the committee last year with unanimous, bipartisan support. One of those supporters was the former Republican leader of this committee, Dr. Roe. Dr. Roe, who is an OB/GYN, has decades of experience with women's health and reproductive care. Like me, he is also a steadfast defender of pro-life principles.

This bill also passed the House last Congress by voice vote. I hope that it can do so again this Congress.

The Equal Access to Contraception for Veterans Act was introduced by Congresswoman Brownley. I thank her for her continued efforts on behalf of women veterans and for introducing the bill.

Madam Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join me in voting for this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.

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Mr. BOST. Madam Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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