This bill amends various sections of the Minnesota Statutes concerning Medicare supplement insurance policies, particularly focusing on preexisting condition limitations. It removes certain subdivisions that previously defined conditions for policy issuance and introduces new provisions that enhance protections for individuals with preexisting conditions. Notably, the bill prohibits health carriers from imposing preexisting condition limitations or discriminating in pricing based on health status or age during specified enrollment periods. It also requires that any limitations related to preexisting conditions be clearly labeled in policy documentation. Additionally, the bill establishes guidelines for the suspension and reinstatement of Medicare supplement policies when individuals qualify for medical assistance, ensuring no waiting period for treatment of preexisting conditions upon reinstatement.

Moreover, the bill clarifies the rights of individuals who lose coverage and the obligations of issuers, specifying entitlement to certain Medicare supplement policies based on prior enrollment and outlining notification requirements for organizations that terminate contracts. It prohibits Medicare supplement policies from duplicating benefits provided by Medicare and restricts the use of waivers for preexisting conditions, except under specific circumstances. Significant changes include the repeal of certain statutes related to open enrollment periods and the introduction of new language regarding the replacement of Medicare supplement policies, allowing for the omission of certain clauses in replacement notices if no new preexisting condition limitations are involved. The act is set to take effect the day after its final enactment, with provisions for the repeal of previous laws and the effective date for new policies.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 62A.31, 62A.44