The People and Animals Well-being (PAW) Act is a bipartisan bill introduced by U.S. Representatives Deborah Ross (D-NC) and Claudia Tenney (R-NY). This bill aims to make veterinary care more affordable for pet owners by allowing the use of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for veterinary expenses. If passed, pet owners could use up to $1,000 from their HSA or FSA to cover essential vet costs or pet health insurance premiums.
Here’s what you need to know:
Expanded HSA/FSA Benefits: The PAW Act allows pet owners to apply pre-tax dollars towards veterinary expenses, reducing the out-of-pocket cost for routine care, emergencies, and even surgeries. This could significantly ease the financial burden for families and individuals who rely on pets for companionship and emotional support.
Support for Service Animals: The bill provides unlimited coverage from HSAs and FSAs for service animals, including those assisting individuals with mental and physical disabilities. This means veterans and people with service animals won’t have to worry about a cap on the expenses covered.
Why It Matters: Veterinary costs have increased dramatically—by nearly 60% over the past decade—making it challenging for many pet owners to afford necessary care. The PAW Act could provide crucial financial relief, helping more pet owners access preventive and emergency services without breaking the bank.
Backed by veterinary organizations like the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the PAW Act represents an important step toward promoting both animal and human well-being. Keep an eye on this legislation, as it could soon offer a practical way to manage your pet’s health expenses.
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