Today, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08) delivered the following remarks on the House floor during debate on the Chronic Disease Flexible Coverage Act.

As prepared for delivery.

“I rise today in support of the Chronic Disease Flexible Coverage Act introduced by Ways and Means Health Subcommittee Chairman Vern Buchanan and our Ways and Means colleague Representative Jimmy Panetta.

“This legislation provides employers and their employees with greater flexibility to design health care coverage options that expand access to treatments for chronic diseases. The chronic disease epidemic has unfortunately impacted nearly every family in America and represents a significant share of our health care spending. In fact, 90 percent of the $4.1 trillion this country spends each year on health care goes toward chronic disease. 

“This is not surprising when you realize that 60 percent of Americans suffer from some form of chronic disease – whether it be heart disease, diabetes, or cancer. So many Americans would benefit from having health care coverage that is not only more affordable but more responsive to their needs so they can better manage their health.

“Last Congress, the House of Representatives approved a version of this legislation, but unfortunately, we were not able to get the bill across the finish line. However, with President Trump back in the White House we are moving this bill once again – a bill that further strengthens a policy put in place during the first Trump Administration. 

“For the 53 percent of employers that offer high-deductible health plans to their employees, they would now be able to improve those options by allowing pre-deductible coverage of critical chronic care management services – including beta-blockers, blood pressure monitors and glucometers, inhalers, and medications and testing to help individuals with high cholesterol. While the bill includes 14 specific services that could be covered, it leaves the door open for that list to be expanded later as well. 

“By providing flexible coverage options for more people living with chronic health conditions, we can help lower their costs and improve their health and well-being.

“I want to thank Representatives Buchanan and Panetta for their leadership on this issue as well as recognize the work of our Ways and Means Health Subcommittee that held its first hearing this Congress on creating healthier options for families and raising awareness about the chronic disease epidemic we have in this country.

“As HHS Secretary Kennedy is shining a light on the chronic disease epidemic, the Ways and Means Committee is leading the charge in Congress to examine the root causes and deliver on solutions – including this bill before us today.

“I encourage all of my colleagues to once again provide strong bipartisan support for this effort to address chronic disease.

“I reserve the balance of my time.”