Policy Updates

California lawmakers have introduced legislation again that would provide "comprehensive universal single-payer" health coverage for all 39 million residents of the state under a program called CalCare.

CMS will delay implementation of new policies designed to heighten security around Medicare and Medicaid data that drew criticism from researchers. 

CMS issued its final 2025 Medicare Advantage and Part D rule April 4, setting new standards around marketing, broker payments, and prior authorization.

CMS finalized several proposed changes to regulations for the ACA marketplace in 2025. 

CMS has finalized a slight decrease in Medicare Advantage benchmark payments for 2025, despite large insurers reporting rising costs and utilization among MA members.

CMS finalized a slight decrease in Medicare Advantage benchmark payments for 2025. 

Proposed legislation in Kentucky to create a gold carding program for prior authorization requests has failed, the Winchester Sun reported March 29.

CMS will extend a special enrollment period for ACA coverage with the goal of getting more people losing Medicaid insured. 

The Biden administration is cracking down on short-term 'junk' health plans that can leave members with poor coverage and large medical expenses.

CMS finalized new rules that are intended to eliminate barriers to Medicaid and CHIP access.