HARRISBURG – A new task force dedicated to the health of women veterans in Pennsylvania will be created following unanimous Senate approval of a measure sponsored by Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R-24), Sen. Frank Farry (R-6), and Sen. Lisa Boscola (D-18).
The Task Force on Women Veterans’ Health Care in Pennsylvania, to be established under adoption of Senate Resolution 46, will study the unique health care and access issues facing women veterans and make recommendations to the governor and General Assembly for action. The panel will be composed of individuals with relevant specialties, including the chair of the State Veterans’ Commission and health care providers.
“As a veteran, I understand the health care challenges of women in uniform, such as having fewer available options and having to travel greater distance for adequate care,” Pennycuick said. “My daughters are now proudly serving their country in the U.S. Army, and I want them and all Pennsylvania women in the military to receive the health care they deserve.”
There are more than 63,000 women veterans in Pennsylvania. By 2045, it is estimated that women will make up approximately 18% of our nation’s veterans. Enactment of Senate Resolution 46 will also pave the way for Pennsylvania to potentially receive additional federal funding to address women veterans’ health care issues.
“This task force is a crucial step in ensuring female veterans have access to health care designed to support their specific needs,” Farry said. “I am proud to support this resolution and will continue to be an advocate for those that risk everything in service to our country.”
“These brave women served our country and now it is up to us to ensure that we serve them the best we can as they convert to civilian life,” Boscola said. “I am grateful for the Senate’s unanimous support for this bipartisan effort and more importantly, the positive attention this issue is receiving.”
Senate Resolution 46 directs the task force to be established by the Joint State Government Commission. The commission will report the task force’s findings and recommendations to the General Assembly and governor within 18 months.
The resolution is part of the Pennsylvania Agenda for Women’s Health, a comprehensive proposal to address health issues affecting Pennsylvania women veterans.
Pennycuick spoke on the Senate Floor in support of the Resolution.
CONTACT: Lidia DiFiore