by The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has unveiled a proposal to significantly scale back abortion access within its healthcare programs, signalling a reversal of the policy adopted in 2022 following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.
Background
The 2022 rule change—put in place by the Biden administration—allowed VA healthcare to cover abortions in cases of rape, incest, and when a pregnancy endangered the life or health of the mother. It marked a historic shift, as federal law previously barred the VA from providing or funding abortion services.
Now, the VA plans to reinstate its pre-2022 policy, eliminating coverage for abortions except in cases where the mother’s life is at risk. According to a notice published on Monday, the updated rule would apply to all medical benefits packages offered to veterans and their eligible dependents.
VA Statement
A VA spokesperson said that the proposal aims to restore “the pre-Biden bipartisan policy,” emphasizing that the department’s prior restrictions had broad support under both Democratic and Republican administrations. The spokesperson added:
“VA’s proposed rule will reinstate the pre-Biden bipartisan policy, bringing the department back in line with historical norms.”
Reactions from Both Sides
The proposed rollback has drawn sharp criticism from abortion-rights advocates, who argue the change would leave veterans—especially those living in states with strict abortion bans—with few or no reproductive care options.
“This is a dangerous denial of care,” said one advocate. “It strips veterans of basic bodily autonomy and could endanger lives.”
Conversely, conservative lawmakers and anti-abortion groups have praised the VA’s move. They argue the 2022 policy change violated the Hyde Amendment, which restricts the use of federal funds for abortion services except in cases where the mother’s life is in danger.
Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) called the proposed rollback “a victory for taxpayers and the sanctity of life.”
Scope of Coverage
While the VA plans to narrow abortion access, it will continue to provide care for veterans experiencing miscarriages and ectopic pregnancies. The department emphasized that it remains committed to offering “needed medical services to our nation’s heroes and their families.”
What’s Next
The VA’s proposed rule is now open for public comment until September 3, 2025. During this 30-day period, individuals and advocacy groups can submit feedback, which the agency will review before finalizing the regulation.
The outcome of this proposal could have sweeping implications for reproductive healthcare access among the nation’s veteran population, particularly women and dependents who rely solely on VA healthcare.
