Las Vegas, Nev. – U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) introduced the Independent Broker Relief and Oversight of Knowingly Egregious and Repetitive Sales Tactics in Medicare Enrollment (BROKERS TIME) Act of 2025. This legislation seeks to protect seniors and simplify the regulatory landscape for local, licensed, independent agents and brokers
This bipartisan legislation would require Medicare regulators to update the definition of a third-party marketing organization to distinguish between call centers and an independent agent or broker, making it easier to regulate misleading advertising and predatory high-volume call centers that can take advantage of seniors trying to navigate the Medicare enrollment process.
“Nevada seniors rely on independent agents and trusted brokers to help them enroll in the Medicare coverage that is right for them,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This commonsense, bipartisan bill would cut red tape for small insurance businesses that help seniors, while cracking down on misleading marketing and predatory call centers.”
“Seniors rely on local, independent brokers to navigate them through the complicated process of Medicare enrollment,” said Senator Rounds. “These are our neighbors that are operating businesses in our hometowns, a far cry from the predatory offshore call centers that use a confusing process to charge exorbitant fees.”
Medicare, including Medicare Advantage (MA) and Part D, is an increasingly complex program for which seniors and disabled individuals need access to a broad array of options for information and advice. Today, more than 33 million Americans are enrolled in MA plans, and enrollment continues to grow as beneficiaries weigh their options between MA and traditional Medicare. Licensed agents and brokers play a significant role by offering tailored advice that complements government resources. This bill would provide additional support to prevent bad actors from taking advantage of the complicated system.
Senator Cortez Masto is a leader in the Senate in ensuring older Nevadans can access quality, affordable health care, including through Medicare. She has led efforts to lower drug costs for seniors, hold Big Pharma accountable, and expand Medicare drug price negotiation. She has also championed legislation to strengthen Medicare-funded behavioral health services and telehealth services, as well as protect access to ambulance services in rural and underserved areas.
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