Dant Chesser bill creating Medicare savings for seniors heads to governor’s desk

Today, March 25, House Bill 1226 passed a vote in the Senate and heads to the governor’s desk. Authored by State Rep. Wendy Dant Chesser (D-Jeffersonville), this 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 as long as they maintain the same type of lettered Medicare Supplement plan.

“As a freshman legislator, I’m excited for my first bill to head to the governor’s desk,” Dant Chesser said.  “HB 1226 will save our senior citizens money and give them some options for their Medigap coverage. Not having to undergo underwriting to switch plans could be life changing. Our seniors won’t have to answer any questions and will be approved. There’s no risk of being denied.” 

After passing unanimously in the House last month, HB 1226 passed in the Senate with a vote of 45 to 2. 

“Nine other states have already passed a birthday rule, and Indiana is one of seven states considering it this year,” Dant Chesser said. “Seniors have saved close to $800, which is huge in our current economy. Thank you to those who brought this idea forward and thank you to those who were part of the legislative process. I hope HB 1226 provides our seniors on Medicare some much-needed relief.”