S. 2625: Independent Broker Relief and Oversight of Knowingly Egregious and Repetitive Sales Tactics In Medicare Enrollment Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Independent Broker Relief and Oversight of Knowingly Egregious and Repetitive Sales Tactics In Medicare Enrollment Act of 2025, aims to regulate how independent agents and brokers interact with beneficiaries in the Medicare program.

Key Provisions

• Definition Updates: The Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) is required to update the definition of third-party marketing organizations (TPMOs) to differentiate them from independent agents and brokers. This includes determining regulatory factors that should apply to these entities.
• Oversight of Call Centers: The bill mandates regulation of call centers that may engage in fraudulent practices related to Medicare. It includes a provision for monetary rewards to individuals who provide information on such call centers.
• Standardized Registration Process: It calls for a standardized process for independent agents and brokers registering with Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) sponsors and Medicare Advantage (MA) organizations. This process aims to distinguish independent agents from TPMOs and reduce regulatory burdens for existing clients versus new business.
• Waiting Period Requirement Nullification: The legislation seeks to eliminate the 48-hour waiting period currently required before independent agents and brokers can meet with Medicare beneficiaries after an appointment agreement is signed.
• Inspection of Marketing Practices: The Inspector General of HHS will conduct a review of marketing practices by potentially fraudulent call centers and report findings to Congress, along with recommendations for further action.

Rulemaking Process

The bill stipulates that HHS must conduct rulemaking to implement these provisions. The Secretary is required to:

• Publish notices in the Federal Register for public comment.
• Establish a 90-day comment period for stakeholder feedback.
• Complete the rulemaking process within one year of the bill’s enactment.

Goals of the Legislation

The main goals of the bill are to enhance regulatory oversight of sales practices in Medicare enrollment, protect beneficiaries from potentially harmful marketing practices, and streamline processes for independent agents and brokers. By clarifying definitions and reducing unnecessary regulations, the aim is to improve the overall experience for Medicare beneficiaries during enrollment.

Relevant Companies

• CNC (Centene Corporation) - As a major player in the Medicare Advantage market, changes in regulatory oversight and marketing practices could directly impact their business operations and practices.
• MUFG (Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group) - As a potential financing partner for marketing organizations, changes in regulations could affect their risk assessment strategies and partnerships.