Equal Access to Contraception for Veterans Act

# Equal Access to Contraception for Veterans Act Summary **What the bill would do:** This bill would require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide contraceptive items and services to veterans at no cost. Currently, the VA can charge veterans for some birth control methods. The bill aligns VA coverage with rules that apply to other health insurance plans, which are required to cover contraception without patient cost-sharing (meaning no copays or deductibles). **Who it affects:** The bill would primarily benefit veterans, particularly women veterans, who use contraception.

It would also apply to VA healthcare providers and budgets, as the department would absorb the full cost of contraceptive coverage. **Current status:** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Julia Brownley (D-CA) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. No action has been taken to advance it further at this time.