Boxing Therapy for Parkinson’s Access Act

119th Congress Introduced by Nikki Budzinski and 2 co-sponsors

The bill would require VA health care to cover boxing-based exercise classes for veterans with specified movement disorders.

Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

Summary of HR 9150 (119th Congress)

Purpose

HR 9150 aims to amend title 38 of the United States Code to require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide coverage for boxing-based exercise classes for veterans who have been diagnosed with certain movement disorders. The intent is to expand access to prescribed, movement-focused exercise as part of VA health benefits, potentially improving functional outcomes and quality of life for affected veterans.

Key provisions and changes

Coverage expansion for boxing-based exercise: The bill directs the VA to cover boxing-based exercise classes as a treatment option for eligible veterans diagnosed with specified movement disorders. While the exact list of disorders is not provided in the summary, it targets conditions that affect movement and motor function.

Inclusion under VA benefits: Boxing-based exercise would be included as a reimbursable or funded service under VA health care, rather than remaining out-of-pocket or solely exercise program options.

Implementation scope: The legislation authorizes coverage through VA health care programs, aligning boxing-based classes with other covered therapies, therapies, and rehabilitative services available to veterans.

Administrative alignment: The bill would require appropriate policy, regulatory, or administrative actions within the VA to implement coverage, including determining qualifying diagnoses and approved class formats or providers.

Who would be affected

Veterans diagnosed with qualifying movement disorders: Veterans who meet the specified medical criteria would gain eligibility for coverage of boxing-based exercise classes.

VA health care system and beneficiaries: The VA would implement coverage, billing, and reimbursement processes for these services, affecting how these programs are offered and paid for within VA facilities or through VA-contracted providers.

Providers of boxing-based exercise programs: Organizations or instructors offering boxing-based therapy or exercise that meet VA standards could participate as covered services.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduction and referral: Introduced in the House and referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs on June 4, 2026.

Legislative progress: As of the provided information, a committee referral is the current stage; no further actions (e.g., floor vote, passage, or Senate consideration) are listed.

Sponsors: The bill has two co-sponsors:

Darin LaHood
Nikki Budzinski

Potential impact and considerations

Clinical impact: By formalizing coverage, eligible veterans may have improved access to structured boxing-based exercise programs, which could support balance, coordination, neuromotor function, and overall physical activity.

Access and equity: Coverage could reduce out-of-pocket barriers and standardize access across VA facilities and programs.

Program administration: Successful implementation would require clear diagnostic criteria, qualified program providers, and monitoring of outcomes to ensure appropriate use and effectiveness.

Note: The summary reflects the bill’s stated objective to provide VA coverage for boxing-based exercise for defined movement disorders. Specific diagnostic criteria, program standards, cost estimates, and implementation timelines would be clarified in the bill’s text and any implementing regulations.