Issa introduces bill to protect TRICARE select Military Retiree Healthcare

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-50) introduced the TRICARE Retiree Protection Act to defend healthcare coverage for military retirees that may otherwise lose access due to policy changes that took effect Jan. 1.

“When it comes to our veterans, promises made must be promises kept. The TRICARE Retiree Protection Act is common-sense reform to extend a transition period so military retirees don’t lose health care coverage for themselves and their families,” Issa said. “I am proud to work with Senators Daines and Manchin to ensure that this consensus solution goes forward and protects those who served our country.”

Since Jan. 1, certain TRICARE retirees (who entered the military before Jan. 1, 2018) have 180 days to establish a payment plan for new enrollment fees. The Issa bill would extend the 180-day grace period to one year, to prevent these veterans from losing their health coverage. Retirees have earned this coverage and they have earned reasonable time to meet new requirements.

Senator Steve Daines (MT) and Senator Joe Manchin (WV) introduced the companion legislation in the Senate on Feb. 2. The two texts differ slightly, with the House bill requiring a beneficiary statement of assertion upon reenrollment that they did not previously receive notice of their change in status.

For information on the fee or to enroll, visit https://tricare.mil/.

Submitted by the office of Congressman Darrell Issa.