I am writing to bring attention to an issue affecting thousands of federal employees who also serve as military reservists: the current ineligibility for TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS). This policy forces reservists employed by the federal government to pay double for insurance coverage, a burden that compromises both financial stability and morale.
TRS is an essential program designed to support the health and readiness of reservists and their families. However, under the 2008 law that established TRS, federal employees eligible for the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program are prohibited from enrolling in TRS. This outdated regulation means that even though I serve my country as both a federal employee and a military reservist, I am denied the same health benefit that would be available to me if I were employed by a private sector company. The inconsistency is evident: if I were to leave my federal job and find employment elsewhere, I would instantly qualify for TRS.
The financial strain of maintaining separate, often more expensive, health insurance policies undermines the very spirit of supporting those who wear the uniform. Many reservists like myself are dedicated public servants who balance civilian duties and military commitments to safeguard our nation’s security and values. Ensuring that we have equitable access to TRS would alleviate an unnecessary financial burden and better align with the principles of supporting military readiness and family well-being.
I urge you to advocate for legislative changes that would make TRICARE Reserve Select accessible to all military reservists, including those employed by the federal government. Expediting access to TRS for federal employees would be a meaningful step in recognizing and addressing the challenges that reservists face.
Thank you for considering this request to support our nation’s service members and their families by ensuring fair access to TRICARE Reserve Select.