Connecticut
Rosa DeLauro Proposes Health Coverage Reform with the Medicare for America Act 2026
Content Files PDF XML TEXT Metadata download Descriptive Metadata (MODS) Preservation Metadata (PREMIS) All Content and Metadata files, including granules ZIP
Last updated:
Key points
- Rep. Rosa DeLauro introduced H.R. 10924 to establish a national Medicare for America health program.
- The legislation automatically enrolls uninsured residents while capping out-of-pocket costs and premiums.
- Funding for the expanded federal coverage relies on a proposed 5 percent surtax on income over $500,000.
NewsWK — Lawmakers in Washington are considering a sweeping government health initiative that would restructure medical coverage across the country. Representative Rosa DeLauro, a Democrat from Connecticut, introduced the bill late last month during the 119th Congress. The proposal aims to establish a universal public healthcare option. expanded coverage
What Are the Key Medicare for America Act Provisions?
The legislation seeks to overhaul public benefits by adding dental, vision, and hearing coverage for all participants. Additionally, the plan allows government officials to negotiate prescription drug prices directly with pharmaceutical companies. It also eliminates the standard 24-month waiting period for individuals with disabilities who seek immediate federal insurance support.
- eliminates the waiting period for individuals on state Medicaid waiting lists
- It enforces strict network adequacy rules for private health plans.
- It limits how Medicare Advantage organizations remove contracted medical providers.
How Would HR 10924 Change Insurance Coverage?
Under HR 10924, uninsured American residents would face automatic enrollment into the new federal system. Meanwhile, workers with qualifying employer coverage could choose to remain on private plans or switch to government insurance. Employers must still contribute toward premiums if employees transition to Medicare.
How Does the Rosa DeLauro Medicare Bill Affect Taxpayers?
The Rosa DeLauro Medicare bill removes standard deductibles while capping annual out-of-pocket costs at $3,500 per individual and $5,000 per household. Household premiums cannot exceed 8 percent of income. Individuals earning below 200 percent of the federal poverty level pay zero premiums and out-of-pocket fees. Still, financing this Medicare expansion legislation requires a 5 percent surtax on income exceeding $500,000.
DeLauro introduced the legislation on October 29, 2026, without any initial cosponsors. House leaders then referred the proposal to six separate committees for further review.
This article was produced with the assistance of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
Sources
Related: Study Examines Women on Parole Mental Health and Reentry Crises Across the US
Related: House Resolution 1499 Clears Way for Critical Votes on Mining, Higher Education, and Maritime Rules
See a typo? Report it here.
