Dant Chesser celebrates signing of her bill creating Medicare savings for seniors

Today, Aug. 27, a bill authored by State Rep. Wendy Dant Chesser (D-Jeffersonville), House Enrolled Act 1226, was ceremonially signed into law. The bill creates cost-saving opportunities for seniors through “The Birthday Rule.” This rule means Medigap enrollees can switch providers without medical underwriting within 60 days of their birthday. This provision protects their options as long as they maintain the same type of lettered Medicare Supplement insurance plan. The bill passed with overwhelming support in both the House and Senate. 

“I was excited to see this bill signed into law for our seniors today," Dant Chesser said. "Avoiding medical underwriting when switching plans is a huge weight off their shoulders. It lowers the risk of our seniors being denied due to their past insurance claims or pre-existing conditions. 

“Indiana is getting with the program by adopting ‘The Birthday Rule.’ We’re joining almost a dozen other states that offer this policy, and it’s worked wonders for our southern neighbors in Kentucky. Seniors have saved as much as $800. HEA 1226 cuts some regulatory red tape and puts some extra money in seniors' pockets. 

“Thank you to those in the community and at the Statehouse who got this bill across the finish line.”