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SB 469

Insurance: health insurers; prohibition on denying or conditioning coverage of a Medicare supplement policy; expand. Amends sec. 3829 of 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.3829).

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rosemary Bayer and 2 co-sponsors

Michigan bill prohibits health insurers from denying Medicare supplement coverage based on health status, expanding access for seniors with pre-existing conditions.

REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON HEALTH POLICY
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Bill Summary · SB 469

Legislative bill overview

SB 469 amends Michigan's insurance code to prohibit health insurers from denying or conditioning coverage of Medicare supplement (Medigap) policies based on an individual's health status or claims history. The bill expands protections for seniors seeking supplemental coverage to fill gaps in their Medicare benefits.

Why is this important

Medicare supplement policies help seniors cover out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and coinsurance that original Medicare doesn't pay. Without protections, insurers could deny coverage or impose conditions on high-risk applicants, leaving vulnerable seniors with significant uncovered medical expenses. This directly affects healthcare accessibility and financial security for Michigan's elderly population.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurer profitability concerns: Prohibiting health status underwriting may increase costs for insurers, potentially leading to higher premiums for all Medigap purchasers or reduced insurer participation in the market
  • Premium impact: Guaranteed issue requirements could drive up Medigap premiums generally, affecting younger or healthier seniors' affordability
  • Scope of expansion: The amendment language is vague about what specific expansions are intended, raising questions about unintended consequences or implementation challenges

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

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