Niagara Leader

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney from New York's 24th District has reintroduced the People and Animals Well-being (PAW) Act. This legislation seeks to amend Section 213(d) of the Internal Revenue Code to allow veterinary care expenses to be covered under Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).

The PAW Act proposes that pet owners could use their HSA or FSA accounts to pay up to $1,000 for veterinary care or a pet health insurance plan. Additionally, it allows an unlimited amount of these funds for service animals. The bill also aims to support individuals with disabilities by ensuring the IRS uses an updated definition of "service animal," which includes those trained for both physical and mental disabilities. Importantly, this proposal maintains current HSA and FSA contribution limits, suggesting minimal impact on federal expenditures.

“Pets and service animals are valued members of our families and lives, with many benefits including increasing our lifespan, reducing stress, and promoting physical activity. It is important we ensure pet owners can afford quality care. The PAW Act allows pet owners to use HSAs and FSAs for veterinary care, ensuring all pet owners can keep their beloved pets and service animals healthy,” said Congresswoman Tenney.

Congresswoman Ross also commented on the initiative: “Pets are more than just animals – in many households, they’re family members. While household costs continue to rise, paying for pet insurance can become a financial burden that people can’t afford. As a dog owner, I’m proud to introduce our bipartisan PAW Act, which will ensure animal lovers can afford care for their pets by including veterinary care and pet insurance as eligible expenses under HSAs and FSAs. I’m grateful for Congresswoman Tenney’s continued partnership to make sure all families can afford insurance for their furry friends.”

Dr. Sandra Faeh, President of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), endorsed the act stating: “The AVMA-endorsed People and Animals Well-being (PAW) Act supports both animal and human health by highlighting the benefits of pet ownership and expanding access to pet care.” She added that making veterinary care eligible under HSAs and FSAs would help make such services more affordable while improving access for service animals.

The PAW Act awaits further consideration in Congress.