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Bill

SB 1945

Relating to the eligibility of certain individuals younger than 65 years of age to purchase Medicare supplement benefit plans.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Donna Campbell and 2 co-sponsors

SB 1945 would permit Texans under 65 to purchase Medicare supplement insurance plans currently restricted to seniors, expanding coverage access but risking premium increases in supplemental insurance markets.

Co-author authorized
#health--otherdiseases&medicalconditions(i0383) #insurance #commissionerof(v0396) #insurance--health&accident(i0422) #medicare(s6016)
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Bill Summary · SB 1945

Legislative bill overview

SB 1945 would allow Texans under age 65 to purchase Medicare supplement (Medigap) insurance plans, which are currently restricted to Medicare-eligible seniors. This change would create a new insurance product category for younger individuals who may have chronic conditions or other health needs but don't yet qualify for Medicare based on age.

Why is this important

Currently, individuals under 65 without employer coverage or government programs face limited supplemental insurance options. This bill could expand access to standardized health coverage for vulnerable populations, though it would likely increase costs for this younger group and may affect insurance market dynamics by introducing higher-risk populations into plans designed for seniors.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance market impact: Younger, sicker individuals purchasing Medigap plans could increase premiums across the entire supplemental insurance market, potentially raising costs for existing senior customers
  • Federal regulatory conflicts: Medicare supplement plans are federally regulated; Texas implementation would need to navigate or potentially conflict with federal insurance law and CMS requirements
  • Alternative coverage pathways: Questions about why this approach is preferable to expanding Medicaid or ACA marketplace options, which already serve non-elderly, non-Medicare-eligible populations

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

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