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SB 1199

Medicare supplement policies; annual open enrollment period, individual Medicare policies, etc.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Creigh Deeds

SB 1199 establishes annual open enrollment for Virginia Medicare supplement policies, effective July 2025, affecting seniors' ability to purchase and switch supplemental coverage.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0540)
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Bill Summary · SB 1199

Legislative bill overview

SB 1199 modifies Virginia's regulations governing Medicare supplement (Medigap) insurance policies by establishing an annual open enrollment period for individual policies and adjusting requirements for insurers offering these plans. The bill affects how seniors can purchase and switch between supplemental Medicare coverage in Virginia.

Why is this important

Medicare supplement policies help seniors pay out-of-pocket costs not covered by traditional Medicare, making healthcare more affordable. Changes to enrollment periods and policy availability directly impact seniors' ability to access affordable supplemental coverage and switch plans when their needs change or rates increase.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurer participation burden: Requiring insurers to offer certain plans during specific enrollment periods may increase administrative costs or discourage some carriers from serving Virginia's market
  • Consumer access vs. market flexibility: While annual open enrollment protects seniors, it may limit their ability to change plans outside the window if circumstances change unexpectedly
  • Rate regulation balance: The bill's requirements must balance consumer protections against insurers' ability to manage risk and pricing, which could affect availability and affordability long-term

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

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