New stamp would let the public pay down veterans' medical debt

What does this do?

HR 5946 would create a "Veterans Medical Debt Relief Stamp" sold annually by the US Postal Service around Veterans Day. The stamp would be priced above a regular stamp, with the surplus revenue sent to the Department of Veterans Affairs to pay down veterans' unpaid medical copayments and coinsurance bills. Covered debts include those tied to VA care and care received through the VA's Community Care Program, which lets veterans see non-VA doctors.

Who does it affect?

Veterans who have outstanding medical debts owed to the VA would be directly affected. Any member of the public who purchases postage stamps would have the option to buy this stamp instead of a regular one.

Why does it matter?

Funds collected would be distributed to specific VA offices that handle billing and debt, including the Veterans Health Administration and the VA's Debt Management Center. Because no cap exists on how many stamps can be sold, the total amount of debt relief would depend entirely on voluntary public participation.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• No new government spending required
• Funded entirely by public stamp purchases
• Production cost is the only government expense

Where does it stand?