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HF 70

A bill for an act relating to Medicare supplement policies and an annual open enrollment period.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Barb Kniff McCulla and 1 co-sponsor

HF 70 establishes an annual open enrollment for Medicare supplement policies, enhancing access and flexibility for beneficiaries, including those under 65 with disabilities.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 308.
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Bill Summary · HF 70

Summary of HF 70 - Medicare Supplement Policies and Annual Open Enrollment

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HF 70
Title: A bill for an act relating to Medicare supplement policies and an annual open enrollment period.
Status: Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 308.
Introduced: January 16, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Medicare, Medicare supplement insurance

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HF 70 is to establish an annual open enrollment period for Medicare supplement policies. This legislation aims to enhance access to supplemental insurance for individuals covered by Medicare, particularly benefiting those who may be newly eligible due to age or disability.

Key Provisions

  • Definition of Terms: The bill introduces specific definitions relevant to Medicare supplement policies, including:

    • Applicant: An individual covered under a Medicare supplement policy, including those under 65 who qualify due to disability or other specific conditions.
    • Certificate: A document of coverage issued under a group Medicare supplement policy.
    • Issuer: Entities such as insurance companies or health maintenance organizations that provide Medicare supplement policies.
    • Medicare Supplement Policy: Insurance designed to cover costs not fully paid by Medicare, excluding Medicare Advantage plans and certain other types of coverage.

  • Annual Open Enrollment Period: The bill mandates an annual open enrollment period for individuals seeking to enroll in or switch Medicare supplement policies. This provision is intended to provide greater flexibility and options for beneficiaries.

Impact

  • Beneficiaries: The bill will primarily affect individuals who are covered by Medicare, including those under 65 who qualify due to disability or other conditions. It aims to simplify the process of obtaining supplemental insurance and ensure that beneficiaries have access to necessary coverage.

  • Insurance Providers: Insurance companies and other entities that issue Medicare supplement policies will need to comply with the new regulations regarding the open enrollment period.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 16, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Health and Human Services Committee.
  • January 22, 2025: Subcommittee meeting held; recommended amendments and passage.
  • February 6, 2025: Committee report recommending amendment and passage; committee vote resulted in 23 yeas and 0 nays.
  • February 10, 2025: Committee report approving the bill, which was subsequently renumbered as HF 308.

Conclusion

HF 70 represents a significant step towards improving access to Medicare supplement insurance for eligible individuals. By establishing an annual open enrollment period, the bill seeks to empower beneficiaries with more choices and better coverage options, ultimately enhancing their healthcare security.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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