House Bill No. 2516 amends the Texas Insurance Code to expand eligibility for Medicare supplement benefit plans to individuals under 65 years of age who are enrolled in Medicare due to disability or end-stage renal disease. The bill introduces two new sections, 1652.059 and 1652.060, which require entities offering Medicare supplement plans to provide the same coverage to these younger individuals as they do for those 65 and older. Additionally, it mandates that the premium rates for these plans must be the same for both age groups.

The bill also establishes specific enrollment periods for eligible individuals under 65, allowing them to enroll during a six-month period starting from their Medicare Part B enrollment, a 60-day open enrollment period each year on their birthday, or during a special enrollment period designated by the commissioner. During these enrollment periods, entities cannot deny coverage, impose medical underwriting, or exclude benefits based on preexisting conditions. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and individuals currently enrolled in Medicare Part B due to disability or end-stage renal disease will have a designated application period to apply for coverage under the new provisions.

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