Healthcare

HR 6945 clarifies that states may use federal grants under Section 403 of the Social Security Act to support pregnancy centers meeting specific criteria. These centers must promote protecting both mother and unborn child life while providing services like counseling, pregnancy testing, and material support (e.g., diapers, baby clothes). The bill explicitly prohibits interpreting existing law as barring such funding for eligible centers. It does not create new funding but defines which pregnancy resource organizations qualify for existing grants.

This bill requires colleges receiving federal student aid to provide clear information about pregnancy-related accommodations and resources to all students annually. It mandates institutions to send emails to enrolled students each academic year, include details in student handbooks and orientations, and display the information at health centers and on websites. The disclosure must cover campus/community resources for pregnant students, available accommodations, and how to file complaints under Title IX regarding pregnancy discrimination. The bill does not create new rights but ensures existing protections and resources are communicated to students. It directly affects all participating colleges and pregnant students enrolled in higher education programs.

The Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act (HR 6703) requires large health plans (with at least 100 average participants) and pharmacy benefit managers to submit detailed reports every six months on drug spending, rebates, and out-of-pocket costs. These reports include specific information on drug costs, rebates received, pricing structures, and spending patterns, making this information available to plan sponsors and participants. The bill also establishes new rules for association health plans and health reimbursement arrangements to expand affordable coverage options for workers and self-employed individuals. The primary goal of these reporting requirements is to increase transparency around health care costs, allowing consumers and employers to make more informed decisions about health coverage. The bill does not directly set or reduce premiums but provides data that could inform future premium negotiations and decisions.