In the near future, I will be introducing legislation to amend the Medicare Supplement Insurance Act to allow seniors a new, fair, and predictable opportunity each year to switch Medicare Supplement (“Medigap”) plans without penalty — commonly referred to as the “Birthday Rule.”

Background
Under current law, seniors who want to change their Medigap policy outside of their initial six-month enrollment window may face medical underwriting, higher premiums, or even denial of coverage based on pre-existing conditions or past claims. This creates a barrier for older Pennsylvanians who simply wish to seek a better premium, switch insurers, or take advantage of improved customer service options.

Summary of Legislation
My legislation would create a 60-day “Birthday Rule” enrollment window for Pennsylvanians age 65 and older who already have a Medigap plan. Within 60 days of their birthday, they would be guaranteed the right to:

•  Switch to any insurer’s Medigap policy of the same lettered plan type (including any variation of the plan)
• Without medical underwriting, premium surcharges, or denial of coverage based on health status or claims history
• Have the new plan take effect on the first day of the month at least 30 days after the application is signed

This bill aligns Pennsylvania with other states, such as California and Oregon, that have already implemented similar consumer protections.

Benefits of This Legislation

• Protects Seniors from Penalties: Ensures older Pennsylvanians are not locked into a plan due to health status or fear of higher premiums.
• Encourages Competition: Gives insurers an incentive to keep premiums reasonable and service high, knowing seniors can switch plans annually.
• Simplifies the Process: Creates a predictable, uniform timeframe every year for beneficiaries to make changes.
• Supports Aging with Dignity: Promotes financial stability and access to care by preventing seniors from being priced out of needed coverage.

I invite you to join me in co-sponsoring this important consumer-protection measure that will give seniors more freedom, choice, and peace of mind when managing their health care coverage.