Fitness Industry Reacts to Exclusion of Physical Activity HSA Provision from Senate Bill
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
The Senate-passed reconciliation bill has moved forward without a key provision that would have allowed Americans to use health savings account funds for fitness and physical activity expenses. This development has prompted disappointment from advocates within the health and wellness sector.
Originally included in the House version of the bill, the provision was based on the Personal Health Investment Today Act, a bipartisan initiative that would have permitted individuals to use up to 500 dollars annually, or 1,000 dollars per household, in pre-tax HSA funds to pay for fitness-related costs. These expenses could have included gym memberships, group fitness classes, youth sports fees, and other qualifying physical activity programs.
Industry leaders and public health advocates viewed the measure as a targeted effort to improve health outcomes and lower long-term healthcare spending through prevention.
"This provision wasn’t just smart health policy. It was a targeted, bipartisan tax break for middle-class Americans," a statement from the Health and Fitness Association noted. "At a time when chronic disease is on the rise and families are feeling financial pressure, it would have made staying active and healthy more affordable for millions."
The PHIT Act has received bipartisan support over the years and is aligned with national efforts to promote preventive care. Supporters argue that access to physical activity should not be a luxury but a fundamental component of health strategy.
"This isn’t about subsidizing gym memberships. It’s about enabling preventive care and honoring the promise of Make America Healthy Again," the statement continued. "Physical activity is one of the most effective, low-cost tools to prevent disease, reduce healthcare spending, and improve quality of life."
While the Senate's decision to omit the provision is seen as a setback, advocates remain hopeful that the measure could be revived in future legislative efforts. The call to action is clear.
"We urge lawmakers to revisit and restore this provision in future legislation. Giving Americans the tools and the tax flexibility to invest in their own health is essential to building a stronger, more resilient nation."
The PHIT Act remains a central focus for industry groups pushing for policies that recognize physical activity as essential preventive care, not discretionary spending.
