EACH Act of 2023
1/4/2025, 11:17 AMSummary of Bill HR 561
Bill 118 hr 561, also known as the Expanding Access to Comprehensive Healthcare (EACH) Act of 2023, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main goal of this bill is to improve access to comprehensive healthcare services for all Americans, regardless of their income or insurance status.One of the key provisions of the EACH Act is the expansion of Medicaid coverage to include more low-income individuals and families. This would help ensure that those who are most in need of healthcare services are able to receive the care they require without facing financial barriers.
Additionally, the EACH Act aims to increase funding for community health centers, which play a crucial role in providing primary care services to underserved populations. By investing in these centers, the bill seeks to improve access to preventive care and reduce the burden on emergency rooms. Furthermore, the EACH Act includes provisions to address disparities in healthcare access and outcomes among different racial and ethnic groups. This includes measures to improve cultural competency training for healthcare providers and increase funding for programs that target health disparities. Overall, the EACH Act of 2023 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that seeks to expand access to healthcare services for all Americans, with a particular focus on those who are most vulnerable. If passed, this bill has the potential to improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare disparities across the country.
Congressional Summary of HR 561
Equal Access to Abortion Coverage in Health Insurance Act of 2023 or the EACH Act of 2023
This bill requires federal health care programs (e.g., Medicaid, Medicare, and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)) to provide coverage for abortion services and requires federal facilities to provide access to those services. Currently, coverage for such services under federal programs is generally only available in the case of rape, incest, or life endangerment.
Additionally, the bill repeals certain provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act that permit states to prohibit coverage of abortion services in plans offered through a health insurance exchange in the state.
The bill also permits qualified health plans to use funds attributable to premium tax credits and reduced cost sharing assistance to pay for abortion services.
The bill is not subject to the Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 1993, which generally prohibits the federal government from substantially burdening a person's exercise of religion even if the burden results from a generally applicable law.
