Bill · H.R. 9851· House(119-HR-9851)
Protecting Access to Spiritual Treatment and Organized Religion Act of 2026
- Introduced
- 7/22/2026
- Last activity
- 7/22/2026 — 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.
- Sponsored by
- Mike Flood
- Cosponsors
- None
- Introduced
- In Committee
What this bill would do
This bill, known as the "PASTOR Act of 2026," aims to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act. It would require service providers to allow patients access to a member of clergy. This access must be granted upon the request of an individual receiving items and services. The requirement is set to begin on January 1, 2028. Clergy members must adhere to safety measures and protocols specified by the Secretary.
Yes· 3 of 7
Does this protect the freedom to practise a religion?+5
The bill protects the right of individuals to have spiritual support during medical care.
Would people over 65 be better off under this?+3
The bill benefits seniors by ensuring they can have designated clergy access while receiving Medicare services.
Would retired people be better off under this?+3
The bill supports retirees by guaranteeing them the right to religious access during their medical care.
The opposite
No question was scored the opposite.
Who it would affect, and how
Potential Positive Impacts for People
-
Access to Spiritual Support: The bill would allow individuals receiving services to have access to a member of clergy designated by them, which could provide spiritual support during treatment. (Section 2, subparagraph Z)
-
Patient Autonomy: An individual receiving items and services can personally designate the specific member of clergy they wish to have access to them. (Section 2, subparagraph Z)
Potential Negative Impacts for People
- Compliance Requirements: Clergy members would be required to adhere to specific safety measures and other protocols as specified by the Secretary. (Section 2, subparagraph Z)
Groups and Interests Ranking
Every group the model scored this bill for, from -10 to +10. Hover a score for the reason it gave.
- Demographic And Interest Groups
- Good For Retirees+3Good For Seniors+3Good For Low Income Households+2Good For Middle Class Households+2
- Social Issues And Justice
- Improves Religious Freedom+5
- Healthcare
- Improves Healthcare Access+3Increases Medicare Funding+1
- 7/22/2026
- 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.
- Introduced in House