Answer:
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates issued a statement that says the TRICARE military health plan meets the standards set by the newly signed health care reform law. The law won't have a negative effect on TRICARE, which "already meets the bill's quality and minimum benefit standards."
Just to be extra certain that TRICARE beneficiaries are protected from any unintended adverse consequences of the national health care reform law, House lawmakers voted 403-0 this week to pass an exemption (HR 4887) for the health care coverage provided by the Defense Department to military service-members, retirees and their families. It would clarify the tax code to stipulate that TRICARE coverage provided by Defense is treated as minimal essential coverage, ensuring that servicemembers and their families will not need to purchase additional coverage or pay any penalty fees to meet the new health insurance requirements.
It's unknown what action the Senate may take on the House-passed exemption, but Sen. Jim Webb (D-VA) introduced a companion bill and the White House has stated the new health care reform law will not adversely affect TRICARE and VA health care. But lawmakers fear that without explicit language, such assurances leave room for doubt.