TRICARE Equality Act

The TRICARE Equality Act (HR 254) requires the Defense Secretary to treat Puerto Rico similarly to the 50 states for TRICARE Prime service area designations, expand travel benefits for eligible military beneficiaries there, and coordinate health information sharing with Puerto Rico's health department. It mandates a congressional report on implementation within 180 days and includes a sunset provision ending these changes if Puerto Rico becomes a U.S. state. The bill directly affects military personnel, veterans, and their families residing in Puerto Rico by aligning their TRICARE access with standard state benefits. These provisions aim to address historical disparities in military health care administration for Puerto Rico.