Summary of HR 4381: Pilot Program for TRICARE Select Enrollment

Purpose and Intent

HR 4381 aims to direct the Secretary of Defense to establish a pilot program that treats pregnancy as a qualifying event for enrollment in TRICARE Select, a health care program for military personnel and their families. The bill seeks to enhance access to health care for eligible beneficiaries during pregnancy, thereby addressing a significant life event that impacts health care needs.

Key Provisions

• Pilot Program Establishment: The Secretary of Defense is required to initiate a five-year pilot program within 180 days of the bill's enactment. This program will allow eligible beneficiaries to enroll in TRICARE Select based on pregnancy as a qualifying event.

• Reporting Requirements:

  • A briefing on the pilot program's status must be provided to the appropriate congressional committees within one year of enactment.
  • Annual reports must be submitted for the duration of the pilot program, detailing:
  • The number of enrollment changes due to pregnancy.
  • Disaggregation of changes by month, starting January 2027.
  • Reasons for enrollment changes, including separations and returns to active duty among service members and their dependents.

• Definitions:

  • Covered Enrollment Change: Refers to any change made by an eligible beneficiary regarding their enrollment in TRICARE Select.
  • Eligible Beneficiary: Individuals eligible to enroll in TRICARE Select under existing laws.
  • TRICARE Program and TRICARE Select: Defined as per existing statutes in Title 10 of the United States Code.

Affected Parties

• Eligible Beneficiaries: This includes active duty service members, their dependents, and individuals who have separated from active duty. The pilot program specifically targets those who are pregnant, allowing them to adjust their health care enrollment accordingly.

Procedural Aspects

• Introduced Date: The bill was introduced in the House on July 14, 2025.
• Committee Referral: It has been referred to the House Committee on Armed Services for further consideration.

Conclusion

HR 4381 represents a significant step toward improving health care access for military families during pregnancy. By recognizing pregnancy as a qualifying event for TRICARE Select enrollment, the bill aims to provide necessary support and flexibility for eligible beneficiaries, ensuring they receive appropriate health care during this critical time.