Bill > H5499

This bill seeks to promote increased consumer access to Medicare supplement (Medigap) health insurance policies by making several key changes to existing Rhode Island insurance law. The legislation ensures that Rhode Island residents eligible for Medicare due to age or disability have continuous enrollment rights for Medigap policies, prohibiting insurers from using medical underwriting or other methods to deny coverage to eligible individuals. The bill mandates that premium rates for Medicare supplement policies be determined on a community-rated basis, meaning rates cannot be based on an individual's health status. Additionally, the bill empowers the Office of Health Insurance Commissioner (OHIC) to conduct annual reviews of Medigap policy premium rates, monitor compliance with the law, and impose administrative penalties on insurers for violations. The new provisions aim to protect consumers by ensuring more accessible and fair Medicare supplement insurance options, with potential penalties including fines, suspension of policy offerings, or corrective action orders. The bill will take effect on January 1, 2026, providing insurers time to adjust their practices to comply with the new requirements.

Health and Social Services

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