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politics19h ago
Mike Johnson works in secret to strip IVF health coverage from defense bill
- Johnson is reportedly pressuring to remove TRICARE IVF coverage from the NDAA, signaling a behind-the-scenes clash over benefits for service members.
- Sen. Tammy Duckworth says Johnson is acting behind closed doors to strip the IVF provision, despite bipartisan negotiations.
- The provision would mandate TRICARE to cover IVF services for all enrollees, expanding access beyond current limits.
- The debate occurs as lawmakers expect NDAA text to be released this week, with compromise efforts ongoing in both chambers.
- Supporters argue expanding IVF access benefits military families, with critics tying coverage to abortion debates.
- The Congressional Budget Office estimated high costs for implementing IVF coverage under TRICARE in 2025–2029.
- President Trump remains a central figure in the IVF coverage debate, with renewed talk of expanding IVF access.
- Some lawmakers had previously opposed similar IVF language in the NDAA, complicating negotiations.
- White House and party leaders did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the NDAA IVF language.
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