Sen. Murray’s Effort to Reimburse Washington State Taxpayers For Child Vaccinations Clears Key Hurdle in Senate

WASHINGTON, Sept. 18 -- The office of Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., issued the following news release:

Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) announced the Senate has approved her amendment as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to require a major health insurer to reimburse 11 states, including Washington state, for children's vaccines. The problem arose more than seven years ago when Tricare, which provides health insurance to military families, refused to pay for children's vaccines provided by Washington state. Refusing to reimburse the state has cost Washington taxpayers over $10 million. Senator Murray's amendment, which passed the full Senate today, would make vaccine reimbursements mandatory.

"Our state is doing the right thing by keeping kids healthy and making sure all children have access to critical vaccines, but it's past time for Tricare to fulfill its obligation and stop expecting Washington state taxpayers to pick up the tab," Senator Murray said. "I'm proud to be a voice for our state in Congress and fight for common sense fixes that affect the families I represent."

After passing the full Senate, the NDAA now moves to a conference committee. Sen. Murray will fight to ensure her amendment is kept intact and signed into law.