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2019 SESSION

19103969D
HOUSE BILL NO. 2771
Offered January 18, 2019
A BILL to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 38.2-3605.1, relating to Medicare supplement policies; switching plans.
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Patron-- Bell, Robert B.
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Referred to Committee on Commerce and Labor
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Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. That the Code of Virginia is amended by adding a section numbered 38.2-3605.1 as follows:

§ 38.2-3605.1. Switching plans.

An individual covered by a Medicare supplement policy or contract issued in the Commonwealth shall be entitled to an annual open enrollment period lasting 30 days or more, commencing with the individual's birthday, during which time that person may purchase any Medicare supplement policy or contract, of any plan type, that offers benefits equal to or lesser than those provided by the current supplemental policy or contract. During this open enrollment period, no issuer that falls under this provision shall deny or condition the issuance or effectiveness of Medicare supplement coverage, nor discriminate in the pricing of coverage, because of the health status, claims experience, receipt of health care, or medical condition of the individual if, at the time of the open enrollment period, the individual is covered under another Medicare supplement policy or contract. An issuer shall notify a policyholder of his rights under this section at least 30 and no more than 60 days before the beginning of the open enrollment period.