Bill > HB1754

This bill modifies existing law to expand guaranteed issue provisions for Medicare supplemental insurance (Medigap), ensuring that insurance companies cannot deny, condition, or discriminate in pricing policies based on an individual's health status during two specific enrollment periods. First, insurers cannot deny coverage during the six-month period when an individual turns 65 and enrolls in Medicare Part B. Second, the bill introduces a new provision allowing guaranteed issue during any annual open enrollment period for Medicare Part B or Medicare Advantage. The bill also maintains existing protections related to preexisting condition waiting periods: if an applicant has had continuous creditable health coverage for at least three months, the insurer cannot exclude benefits based on preexisting conditions. For applicants with less than three months of prior coverage, insurers must proportionally reduce the preexisting condition exclusion period. These changes aim to make Medicare supplemental insurance more accessible and affordable for seniors by preventing health-based discrimination and ensuring more opportunities to obtain coverage. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Health and Social Services

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1754&Year=2025&Initiative=false