S.605 - CHAMPVA Children's Care Protection Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The "CHAMPVA Children's Care Protection Act of 2025" (S.605) aims to amend Title 38 of the United States Code to increase the maximum age for children eligible for medical care under the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA). Currently, children generally lose eligibility at age 18, or 23 if in college. This bill proposes extending eligibility to the age of 26, regardless of marital status.
The bill makes an exception for children already covered under section 101(4)(A)(ii) of Title 38, which pertains to those incapable of self-support due to a mental or physical disability. The amendment would apply to medical care provided on or after the date of the bill's enactment.
The bill was introduced in the Senate on February 18, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill, if enacted, would be to expand healthcare access for adult children of veterans under the CHAMPVA program. This would allow more young adults up to age 26 to receive medical benefits, potentially improving their health outcomes and financial stability.
It could also increase the financial burden on the CHAMPVA program, requiring additional resources to cover the expanded pool of eligible beneficiaries. The change would align CHAMPVA eligibility more closely with that of the Affordable Care Act, which also allows children to remain on their parents' health insurance until age 26.
Potential Benefits
- Increased healthcare access for adult children of veterans, potentially leading to improved health outcomes.
- Financial relief for families of veterans by reducing healthcare costs for their adult children.
- Alignment with the Affordable Care Act's dependent coverage provisions, simplifying healthcare access for young adults.
- Potential for increased preventative care among young adults, leading to long-term health benefits.
- May reduce the number of uninsured young adults, improving overall public health.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased costs for the CHAMPVA program, potentially requiring additional funding or reallocation of resources.
- Potential for longer wait times or reduced service quality due to increased demand.
- Possible administrative challenges in implementing the expanded eligibility criteria.
- May create a disincentive for young adults to seek independent health insurance coverage.
- Could lead to increased utilization of healthcare services, potentially straining the healthcare system.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve the health and well-being of veterans' families. The Constitution grants Congress the power to provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States.
Specifically, this bill falls under Congress's authority to legislate for the military and veterans, as outlined in Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to raise and support armies, and to provide and maintain a navy. Providing healthcare benefits to veterans and their families is a recognized aspect of supporting those who have served in the military.
There are no apparent conflicts with individual liberties or rights outlined in the Constitution or its amendments. The bill expands access to healthcare, which does not infringe upon any constitutionally protected rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).