A bill that would repeal health reform laws that dictate how funds within health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts are used is gaining support from House GOP members.
Congressman Erik Paulsen (left), R-Minn., announced Thursday he received his 100th co-sponsor on H.R. 605, the Patients Freedom to Choose Act.
The bill would repeal a ban on the use of tax-free FSA and HSA funds to purchase over-the-counter medication without a prescription. The legislation also would abolish a federally mandated cap of $2,500 on FSA contributions.
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"As it stands now, the new health care law requires patients obtain a prescription from their doctors for such over-the-counter medications as Tylenol and Claritin Claritin – increasing burdensome paper work for doctors and raising the cost of care for hard working families," Paulsen said in a statement. "The Patients Freedom to Choose Act would restore patient's ability to use FSA and HSA funds for such OTC purchases – limiting the costs associated with visiting a health care professional. I am honored that so many of my colleagues stand with me in support of this common sense legislation."
The National Federation of Independent Business, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Retail Federation, and the Employers Council on Flexible Compensation have endorsed this legislation.
The bill has been referred to the House Ways and Means Committee.
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