Bill > S0267

This bill seeks to enhance consumer access to Medicare supplement (Medigap) health insurance policies by modifying existing state insurance regulations. The key provisions include guaranteeing continuous enrollment rights for Rhode Island residents who are eligible for Medicare due to age, disability, or end-stage renal disease, and explicitly prohibiting insurers from using medical underwriting or other methods to deny Medigap coverage to eligible individuals. The bill requires Medicare supplement policy premium rates to be determined on a community-rated basis, meaning rates cannot vary based on an individual's health status. Additionally, the bill empowers the Office of Health Insurance Commissioner (OHIC) to conduct annual premium rate reviews, monitor compliance with the new regulations, and impose administrative penalties on insurers for violations, which may include fines, suspension of policy offerings, or corrective action orders. The bill also includes a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the legislation is found invalid, the remaining provisions will remain in effect. The new regulations are set to take effect on January 1, 2026, giving insurers time to adapt to the new requirements.

Health and Social Services

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