Federal health official would guide people on reproductive care

The Department of Health and Human Services would have a reproductive and sexual health official called an ombuds. The official would report directly to the health secretary, who would ensure independence from staff handling related issues and sufficient staff and resources. The appointee would need relevant expertise and demonstrated commitment to care, including abortion and care for LGBTQ+ people, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and people with low incomes. Reports to Congress would be due by June 30, 2026, and each June 30 afterward.

The official would share health information, explain how people can connect with care, and address misinformation. Connection information would cover federally funded Title X providers, abortion funds, and other reproductive and sexual health clinics. Educational materials and information about abortion pills used outside formal medical settings would need to be based on evidence and medically accurate.

The official would analyze federal health department data on access to care and review gaps in health coverage. Reviews would cover reproductive and sexual health services, including abortion, across federal health programs, individual insurance, and employer health plans, including those that pay claims themselves. Coverage reviews would involve coordination with federal labor and treasury officials and state insurance officials.

The official would work with the Federal Trade Commission to gather information and address consumer protection and data privacy concerns. This work would cover services relating to reproductive and sexual health. The official would have to follow applicable federal privacy laws. The bill would not authorize collecting information that identifies individual patients or require other entities to provide it.