Content Manager posted on June 18, 2008 21:22
H.R. 6185 allows retired members of National Guard and Reserve Units with 20 or more years of faithful and honorable service to purchase healthcare that was available to them during their time in active service or after they reach 60 years of age. Currently, members who have retired but are not yet 60 years of age are not eligible for TRICARE health insurance, and are referred to as being in the "gray area." Right now there are approximately 220,000 retirees that fall within the "gray area", with an additional 12,100 service members retiring and entering this status each year. This legislation allows those members who are in the "gray area" to purchase TRICARE Standard healthcare coverage for 100% of the premium.
H.R. 6185 is an important piece of legislation. This bill addresses a lack of continuity in healthcare coverage for members of our military who have served our country by providing access to the healthcare they deserve. As more of our National Guard reserve troops are called to duty overseas, even after retirement, they should not suffer a gap in healthcare coverage.