H.R. 4333: Qualified to Serve Act

This bill, named the **Qualified to Serve Act**, aims to amend how medical evaluations are conducted for individuals seeking to join the U.S. Armed Forces. Here’s a breakdown of the main provisions:

Uniform Medical Standards

The bill mandates that the Secretaries of the Armed Forces establish consistent medical accession standards that apply equally to all members, whether commissioned officers or enlisted personnel, across different occupational specialties. These standards must be clear and accessible to prospective service members.

Prohibition on Certain Disqualifications

Individuals cannot be disqualified from joining the Armed Forces solely based on a prior medical diagnosis if they meet the following criteria:

• The diagnosis occurred before the individual turned 13 years old.
• The medical condition did not require treatment in the five years leading up to their application.
• A licensed medical professional confirms that the individual is currently fit for service and does not meet the diagnostic criteria for the condition.
• The Secretary of the relevant Armed Force decides that the prior diagnosis is unlikely to affect the health and readiness of the service.

Review Process for Medical Disqualifications

The bill requires the Secretary concerned to set up a review process for medical disqualifications faced by applicants. Additionally, the Secretary can approve a person’s accession into the Armed Forces even if they have a disqualifying medical diagnosis, provided it aligns with national security interests.

Annual Reporting Requirement

The Secretary of Defense must submit an annual report to Congress that includes:

• The number of individuals disqualified from service due to medical history in the previous year.
• The number and type of medical waivers granted in the preceding year.
• Any updates to the medical standards and review processes since the last report.

Relevant Companies

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