HB 565 improves health insurance for the National Guard
ByHB 565, sponsored by Rep. Tim Furey (D-Milltown) was heard Monday before the House Business and Labor committee. HB 565, titled “Implement Montana Veterans Supplemental Health Insurance Program” will provide supplemental funds for qualified National Guard and U.S. reserve members to cover certain, additional costs associated to the federal TRICARE health insurance program.
According to Rep. Furey, “this bill recognizes both the service of the individual and their family, giving them a helping hand once they return from duty.”
HB 565 adds an additional layer of protection, for both individuals and the families of those who have served our nation in the National Guard or Army Reserve. This bill is targeted towards those who do not have other private sector health coverage, and at the moment would provide assistance to roughly 200 service members here in Montana.
There was strong support from veterans for passage of this bill, making clear that HB 565 promotes individuals to stay active in the guard since many guard members do not receive health insurance through their public sector work.
HB 565 has been rereferred to House Appropriations.
"I think that it’s going to all work out, with the changes that we have agreed to. It’s not as much (spending for some programs) as I would’ve hoped, but apparently it’s more than other people wanted. As usual, we are trying to find the middle.” 
"[On term limits:] You empower the executive, you empower the lobbyists and that's not good for the system because then we lose what the citizen Legislature brings.” 