WASHINGTON   –  U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) has introduced legislation to prevent premium cost increases in the military retiree system of health care, known as TRICARE.  Past proposals to increase the share of the premium paid by military retirees and their spouses have threatened the ability of veterans and their families to participate in the program.

“The men and women who have served our country in uniform have earned and deserve this critical benefit.  It keeps them connected to a standard of care, where they can easily see a doctor when they need one.  In no way should Congress allow an action that will prevent access to health care,” Emerson said.

Emerson also stated that one of her continuing goals is to continue to improve access to VA facilities in Southern Missouri and the quality of care there. 

“Among other improvements we can make at the federal level, the new outpatient facility in Sikeston is also going to improve the availability of care for veterans in our part of the state.  And, as always, my door is always open to veterans and their families if they encounter any difficulty in obtaining their benefits or the care they need from a VA facility,” Emerson added.