Tenney’s ‘PAW Act’ would make veterinary care more affordable

Press Release, Congresswoman Claudia Tenney

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) alongside Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02), introduced the People and Animals Well-being (PAW) Act to expand eligibility to include veterinary care expenses under tax-advantaged health care spending accounts, specifically Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) by amending Internal Revenue Code Section 213(d).

The PAW Act would allow pet owners to use their HSA or FSA accounts to pay for up to $1,000 for veterinary care or a pet health insurance plan, while permitting an unlimited amount of these funds for service animals.

It aims to assist veterans with PTSD and individuals with disabilities by ensuring the IRS relies on an up-to-date Federal definition of “service animal,” which includes animals trained to assist with both physical and mental disabilities. Additionally, the bill maintains current HSA and FSA contribution limits, ensuring that there will be little to no impact on federal expenditures.

“Our pets and service animals are cherished members of our families, and it’s essential that owners have the ability to pay for quality care,” Tenney said. “The PAW Act offers greater flexibility to pet owners by allowing them to use HSAs and FSAs for pet care expenses. This legislation will help veterans, and all pet owners afford veterinary care for their beloved pets and service animals.”

“MetLife strongly supports the PAW Act, which helps pet parents address unexpected veterinary expenses resulting from a pet’s illness or accident,” said Brian Jorgensen, Head of Pet Insurance, MetLife. “This bill is a critical step towards promoting the health and well-being of pets by helping pet parents access the care their pets need while protecting their financial wellness. We are proud to support a bill that aligns with MetLife’s purpose of helping people care for their loved ones, both human and animal.”