Special Announcement -- Legislation was introduced in the HOuse to create new standards regarding Medicare Set-Asides.  H.R. 2549, sponsored by Rep. John Tanner (D-TN), Rep. Phil English (R-PA), Rep. Thomas M. Reynolds (R-NY), and Rep. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), was introduced on May 24, 2007.  The bill aims to create consistent standards and achieve a more efficient review process that currently poses a burden on injured workers as well as states and workers' compensation payers.

The bill revolves around regulations created by CMS to enforce the Medicare Secondary Payer (MSP) Act, which was set in place to prevent workers' compensation settlements from shifting the financial burden of claims to Medicare.  Supporters of the legislation say that CMS' current review process lacks consistency, requires too much time, and provides no avenue to appeal decisions.  A legislative solution is thought to be the best solution.

Several organizations strongly support the proposed legislation, including American Insurance Association (AIA), the Coalition for Medicare Secondary Payer Reform, the Workers Injury Law and Advocacy Group (WILG), and Strategic Services on Unemployment and Workers' Compensation (UWC).

We will continue to track this bill and distribute updates accordingly.  To read the full text of the bill, click here.