Virginia Senate Bill SB787

Virginia 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/26
• Refer: 1/23/26
• Report Pass: 2/11/26

Caption

Virginia National Guard TRICARE Reimbursement Fund; established.

Impact

The creation of the TRICARE Reimbursement Fund is significant as it directly addresses the healthcare financial challenges faced by Virginia National Guard members. It ensures that these service members can receive vital health coverage without the burden of premium costs out of pocket. This bill aligns state initiatives with federal regulations regarding military benefits and emphasizes the state’s commitment to supporting its National Guard personnel through enhanced access to affordable healthcare.

Summary

Senate Bill 787 proposes the establishment of the Virginia National Guard TRICARE Reimbursement Fund, aimed at providing financial support for premiums related to TRICARE dental insurance and TRICARE Reserve Select health insurance for eligible members of the Virginia National Guard. This fund will be nonreverting, meaning that any unused balance at the end of the fiscal year will not revert to the general fund but will remain available for future reimbursements. The fund will be managed by the Office of the Adjutant General and the Department of Military Affairs, ensuring targeted administration of resources to those most in need within the National Guard.

Contention

While the bill may generally be viewed positively, there could be points of contention among lawmakers regarding the allocation of state funds and priority over other budget items. Critics may raise concerns about the sustainability of funding for this reimbursement scheme, questioning whether the state can consistently provide adequate financial support over time. Additionally, there may be discussions surrounding the eligibility criteria for accessing this fund to ensure it appropriately serves its intended audience.