“Senate Bills 61 and 62 enact revisions to the regulations under which Blue Cross Blue Shield operates. Some of these revisions are necessary in light of the passage of the Affordable Care Act. Democrats are concerned, however, that the bills will phase out the subsidy that makes Medicare Supplemental Insurance, commonly known as Medigap coverage, more affordable. That will likely result in higher health care premiums for seniors. Democrats offered an amendment to address this problem, but Republicans refused to allow a vote on it. We are disappointed that Republicans have chosen to close the door to greater health care affordability for seniors. Despite that fact, a number of the other provisions in the bills are necessary and warranted support.”
