Bill will eliminate copays for veterans’ first three mental health appointments per year
Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff’s bipartisan bill to help Georgia veterans afford mental health care treatment passed the U.S. Senate today.
Sen. Ossoff’s REMOVE Copays Act will eliminate copays for veterans’ first three outpatient mental health care visits each year, helping more veterans get the help they need.
Some veterans are currently required to pay out-of-pocket for outpatient mental health services when seeking treatment through the VA, an unnecessary obstacle for veterans seeking help.
Sen. Ossoff introduced the bipartisan bill earlier this year with Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-ND). Sen. John Thune (R-SD) co-sponsored the bill.
“My bipartisan bill will eliminate copays for three mental health appointments per year for veterans. I brought Republicans and Democrats together to get this done,” Sen. Ossoff said. “My office is standing by to assist Georgia’s veterans at ossoff.senate.gov.”
“Every veteran was willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy every day. We should ensure they have access to care they need. Removing copays for veterans for three mental health appointments annually prioritizes both their mental and physical health. It is a key way to support them as they adjust to civilian life,” said Sen. Cramer.
Rep. Mark Takano (D-CA-41) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House.
Sen. Ossoff’s bipartisan bill passed as part of this year’s government funding bill.
Veterans in need can always seek assistance 24/7 from the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing “1” or by visiting https://www.veteranscrisisline.net
