Larson, Houlahan Introduce Legislation To Help Stabilize Costs For Medicare Advantage Beneficiaries During Coronavirus Pandemic

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives John B. Larson (D-CT) and Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) introduced legislation establishing a risk corridor program for Medicare Advantage plans during the COVID-19 Emergency. This critical bill would help manage risk in the Medicare Advantage marketplace during this time of national crisis while helping to lower premiums for seniors, a population particularly vulnerable to COVID-19. This mechanism would be in place temporarily to help offer greater certainty during an uncertain time.

"I'm proud to introduce this bill today with Rep. Houlahan to ensure that health care costs for seniors do not rise as plans cover testing and treatment for COVID-19," said Larson. "In Connecticut's First District, thousands of seniors rely on Medicare Advantage plans. They shouldn't have to worry about rising health care costs during this difficult time. This critical legislation will ensure they don't have to."

"In Berks and Chester Counties, nearly 60,000 people are enrolled in Medicare Advantage. During this crisis, I have talked with many seniors – particularly those on a fixed income – who are worried about how they will manage their health care costs," Houlahan said. "I'm proud to work with Rep. Larson on this important bill which will help keep the MA market stable during this crisis and keep care affordable for our seniors."

Full text of the bill can be found here.