The bill, HR 7430, introduced by Representatives Stewart, Fogarty, Cotter, Tanzi, Ajello, Carson, and Giraldo on January 30, has been referred to the House Health & Human Services Committee. It urges the United States Congress to take action to protect patients and traditional Medicare from the negative impacts of Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. The bill highlights the historical context of Medicare's establishment in 1965 and the subsequent introduction of private MA plans, which have faced criticism for aggressive marketing tactics and a lack of transparency regarding costs and benefits compared to traditional Medicare.

The bill notes that a significant portion of Medicare beneficiaries are enrolled in MA plans, which may provide inferior coverage and care, particularly for disadvantaged populations. It asserts that MA plans have not resulted in cost savings for the Medicare program and have been associated with practices that prioritize corporate profits over patient care.

The bill calls for specific legislative and administrative actions to enhance the accountability and transparency of MA plans, including stricter regulations on marketing practices, audits to identify fraud, and measures to ensure that beneficiaries can choose traditional Medicare without facing barriers. It emphasizes the need for Congress to prioritize patient welfare over corporate interests and to redirect funds currently benefiting MA plans towards strengthening traditional Medicare. The bill concludes by directing the Secretary of State to transmit certified copies to relevant congressional leaders and members of the Rhode Island delegation.