Protecting Access to Spiritual Treatment and Organized Religion Act of 2026
About This Bill
Committee
Latest Action · July 22, 2026
Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
This bill would require Medicare providers, starting January 1, 2028, to allow patients to designate and receive visits from clergy members of their choice. The legislation applies to all healthcare providers that participate in Medicare, which includes hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical facilities serving Medicare beneficiaries. Patients could request access to clergy for spiritual support during their care, and providers must grant these requests as long as the clergy members follow safety and security protocols established by the Department of Health and Human Services in consultation with providers and religious organizations. The bill does not specify new funding for this requirement, instead treating it as a condition providers must meet to participate in the Medicare program. No timeline for implementation appears necessary beyond the January 1, 2028 effective date, as the requirement relies on existing Medicare enforcement mechanisms.
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