Hawley Drops Surprise in Senate Hearing: “Make All Health Care Tax-Free”
Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) raised a new idea during a Senate hearing on Tuesday, suggesting that Congress should consider making all health care in the United States tax-free.
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The remark came as lawmakers discussed health-care affordability and recent federal tax changes. Hawley pointed to bipartisan support earlier this year for eliminating taxes on tips and overtime pay, arguing that similar relief should apply to medical costs.
“Why shouldn’t we make health care tax free in this country?” Hawley asked during the hearing. “Why shouldn’t we just exempt all health care from taxes?”
Hawley did not outline specific legislation, and no bill has been introduced to enact the proposal. The comments appeared to signal an early-stage policy idea as Republicans and Democrats continue debating the future of federal health-care subsidies and tax incentives.
Health-care costs remain a major concern for families nationwide, and members of both parties have pushed competing plans to lower premiums and expand access. Hawley’s suggestion adds a new tax-focused angle to the broader debate, though it’s unclear how much support the idea may receive in Congress.
The proposal comes as lawmakers prepare for further negotiations over health-care funding heading into 2026.