Next week, the House Energy & Commerce Committee is expected to consider legislation that would impose new statutory restrictions on Medicare agent and broker compensation.
NABIP strongly opposes this proposal and needs agents in Energy & Commerce Committee districts to act now.
The reality is simple: Medicare agent compensation is already regulated and capped by CMS through Fair Market Value guidelines. Additional federal restrictions are unnecessary and miss the mark in protecting Medicare beneficiaries.
The biggest challenge facing agents and beneficiaries today is not excessive compensation. It is the growing number of carrier decisions that limit beneficiary access to assistance through zero-commission products, reduced compensation, market exits, and ongoing plan disruptions. These actions make it harder for beneficiaries to access the personalized guidance they need when making critical healthcare decisions.
Licensed Medicare agents are often the first call beneficiaries make when they have questions about coverage, provider networks, prescription drug costs, enrollment issues, or changes to their health plans. We provide ongoing service and support long after enrollment is complete.
If enacted, this legislation could further reduce beneficiary access to local, licensed professionals who help seniors navigate an increasingly complex Medicare system.
We need Energy & Commerce Committee members to hear directly from the agents serving their constituents.