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HB 1848

Insurance, Health, Accident - As introduced, prohibits an insurer from denying, conditioning the issuance or effectiveness of, or discriminating in the pricing of a medicare supplement policy if an applicant meets certain listed requirements, including a non-age eligible person who submits an application for enrollment in a medicare supplement policy with a different insurer within 60 days of such person's birthday and makes other related changes. - Amends TCA Title 56.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Ed Butler

Bill prevents Medicare supplement insurers from denying or overcharging applicants who switch providers within 60 days of their birthday if they meet eligibility criteria.

Intro., P1C.
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Bill Summary · HB 1848

Legislative bill overview

HB 1848 prohibits Medicare supplement insurers from denying coverage, conditioning policy issuance, or charging higher premiums to applicants who switch insurers within 60 days of their birthday, provided they meet specified eligibility requirements. The bill amends Tennessee's insurance code (Title 56) to protect consumers during this critical enrollment window.

Why is this important

Medicare supplement policies are crucial for covering costs that Original Medicare doesn't pay. Without these protections, individuals shopping for better rates or coverage near their birthday could face denial or excessive charges, potentially leaving them underinsured during vulnerable health periods. This addresses a real gap where consumers face disadvantages when attempting to switch providers at optimal times.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurer concerns: Insurance companies may argue that restricting underwriting flexibility during enrollment windows increases their risk of adverse selection (sicker individuals switching in), potentially raising costs for other policyholders
  • Age verification complexity: Implementation may require new administrative processes to verify applicant age and enrollment timing, creating compliance burdens and potential disputes
  • Scope ambiguity: The phrase "certain listed requirements" is vague in this summary—the actual bill language may create disputes about which applicants qualify, potentially leading to litigation over coverage denials

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

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