House approves HB 258 to let some Medicare supplemental enrollees change plans without underwriting
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Summary
First substitute House Bill 258 passed the Utah House 73-0. Sponsors said the bill permits Medicare supplemental enrollees to switch to an equal or lower tier within the same carrier without medical underwriting, expanding flexibility for seniors on fixed incomes.
The Utah House passed first substitute House Bill 258, Medicare Supplement Insurance Amendments, by voice and recorded a 73-0 final vote sending the measure to the Senate.
Representative Fitzsimani, the bill sponsor, said the bill addresses a problem faced by seniors on Medicare supplemental plans: changes to supplemental coverage can require medical underwriting that may lead to denials for preexisting conditions. Fitzsimani told the House the bill would “allow changes to be made, for seniors, especially many who are on fixed incomes” by permitting moves to an equal or lesser tier within the same carrier without subjecting them to underwriting.
Sponsor remarks framed the change as giving “more flexibility so they can make choices that are appropriate to their own financial situations.” No amendments or substantive floor debate were recorded; Representative Fitzsimani waived summation and the bill passed 73-0.
Votes at a glance: First substitute House Bill 258 (Medicare Supplement Insurance Amendments) — Final passage: 73 yes, 0 no.
The bill was transmitted to the Utah Senate for further consideration.