WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator Susan Collins today announced her support for bipartisan legislation to waive the enrollment penalty for Medicare’s new prescription drug benefit titled; “The Medicare Late Enrollment Assistance Act.”
The first, six-month sign up period for Part D ended May 15th. Legislation, cosponsored by Senator Collins, would waive the penalty for eligible Medicare beneficiaries who choose to sign up during the next open enrollment period which ends November 15th. The legislation also provides more resources for state-based efforts to help seniors, especially those who qualify for low-income benefits, make informed decisions about participating in the drug program.
“It is important to waive the late enrollment penalty for seniors who qualify and wish to sign up during the next enrollment period,” said Senator Collins. “Seniors need time to make informed decisions about their prescription drug plan and waiving the penalty for those who missed the May 15th deadline will help encourage these seniors to enroll in this important program.”
###