Arkansas House Bill HR1068

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/27/23
• Refer: 3/27/23
• Report Pass: 3/29/23
• Passed: 3/30/23

Caption

To Declare That The Arkansas House Of Representatives Oppose Any Effort By President Biden And The United States Congress To Increase The Cost Of Tricare For Life Benefits For Recipients Of These Benefits.

Impact

If HR1068 is adopted, it would signify a strong legislative stance against any initiatives that could lead to increased financial burdens on retired military personnel and their families. The resolution highlights concerns that such changes might discourage beneficiaries from utilizing their earned healthcare benefits, leading to negative consequences for their health access and overall well-being. The resolution reflects an understanding of the military community's reliance on affordable healthcare options, especially as many seniors already face limitations in their healthcare access.

Summary

House Resolution 1068 (HR1068) is a declaration by the Arkansas House of Representatives opposing any proposals from President Biden and the United States Congress aimed at increasing the costs associated with TRICARE for Life benefits. TRICARE for Life is a health insurance program that serves active duty and retired military personnel, as well as their families, providing coverage for Medicare cost-sharing and other additional healthcare needs not covered by Medicare. The resolution emphasizes the importance of keeping these benefits affordable for beneficiaries, particularly in the face of potential enrollment fees that could be introduced under budget proposals.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding HR1068, particularly with the proposed budget changes that would add enrollment fees indexed to Medicare costs. Critics argue that such changes could ultimately reduce Medicare spending by disincentivizing retirees from using their TRICARE benefits, potentially resulting in higher out-of-pocket costs or making some beneficiaries switch to other supplemental plans. This could lead to a significant shift in how military retirees receive their healthcare, thereby raising concerns about the adequacy of healthcare services among this population.