H.R.2744 - Medicare Enrollment Protection Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2744, the Medicare Enrollment Protection Act of 2025, aims to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act, focusing on Medicare enrollment for individuals transitioning from COBRA continuation coverage. The bill introduces a special enrollment period for these individuals, ensuring they can enroll in Medicare Part B without penalty. It also coordinates benefits between COBRA and Medicare, preventing reduction or termination of COBRA benefits based on Medicare eligibility.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely increase Medicare enrollment among individuals leaving COBRA coverage. It will also provide a more seamless transition between COBRA and Medicare, reducing potential gaps in coverage. This will require updates to COBRA notification procedures to inform individuals about Medicare secondary payer rules.
Potential Benefits
- Provides a special enrollment period for individuals transitioning from COBRA to Medicare, preventing coverage gaps.
- Prevents COBRA benefits from being reduced or terminated based on Medicare eligibility.
- Updates COBRA notification procedures to include information about Medicare secondary payer rules.
- Ensures individuals have a one-time opportunity to enroll during the special enrollment period.
- Simplifies the coordination of benefits between COBRA and Medicare.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May increase administrative burden for employers and insurers to coordinate benefits.
- Could potentially increase Medicare enrollment and associated costs.
- Requires individuals to proactively enroll during the special enrollment period, potentially leading to missed opportunities if not well-informed.
- The one-time enrollment opportunity may disadvantage individuals who initially decline Medicare but later need it.
- The bill's effectiveness depends on the clarity and reach of updated COBRA notifications.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it seeks to improve healthcare access and coverage for individuals transitioning from COBRA to Medicare. Specifically, it amends Title XVIII of the Social Security Act, which falls under Congress's power to provide for the general welfare through social safety net programs. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).