To amend title II of the Public Health Service Act to include as an additional right or privilege of commissioned officers of the Public Health Service (and their beneficiaries) certain leave provided under title 10, United States Code to commissioned officers of the Army (or their beneficiaries).
Impact
The proposed changes in HB 8711 would enhance the rights of commissioned officers in the Public Health Service by granting them access to specific leave provisions that were previously exclusive to Army officers. This would likely improve morale and retention among PHS officers, as they would benefit from the same leave options available to their military counterparts. The amendment would be particularly relevant for officers who may need time off for personal reasons, medical issues, or family emergencies, ensuring they have comparable supports in place.
Summary
House Bill 8711 seeks to amend Title II of the Public Health Service Act by enabling commissioned officers of the Public Health Service (PHS) and their beneficiaries to access certain leave entitlements that are currently granted under Title 10 of the United States Code to members of the Army and their beneficiaries. The primary objective of this amendment is to align the leave benefits of PHS officers with those of Army officers, thereby extending similar rights and privileges to those serving within the Public Health Service.
Contention
One point of discussion surrounding HB 8711 could involve the existing disparities in benefits between various branches of military and paramilitary service. While proponents of the bill advocate for equality in benefits and recognizing the contributions of PHS officers, there may also be concerns about the potential financial implications of expanding leave provisions. This could spark debate regarding budget allocations within the Public Health Service and the long-term sustainability of such policies.
To amend title II of the Public Health Service Act to include as an additional right or privilege of commissioned officers of the Public Health Service (and their beneficiaries) certain leave provided under title 10, United States Code to commissioned officers of the Army (or their beneficiaries).
To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize a joint scholarship program under which the Secretary of Veterans Affairs pays for medical education of an officer of the commissioned corps of the Public Health Service at the Uniformed Services University in return for a period of obligated service by such officer at a medical facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.
Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that public servants should be commended for their dedication and continued service to the United States during Public Service Recognition Week.
To amend title 10, United States Code, to modify the rate of pay for care or services provided under the TRICARE program based on the location at which such care or services were provided.