Aging Well: News & Insights for Seniors and Caregivers
- HUD proposes weakening the Equal Access Rule, removing references to gender identity and allowing shelters to deny access to transgender individuals.
- Comments on HUD’s proposed rule due June 29, 2026; advocates can use the Equal Access Rule Advocacy Hub and Justice in Aging templates.
- SSA OIG audit found many enrollees overcharged Part B late penalties; errors in processing Special Enrollment Periods and immigrant status; enrollees can challenge.
From DC is Justice in Aging’s weekly roundup of national news and resources about issues impacting older adults. To receive From DC in your inbox as soon as its published, sign up for our mailing list.
Here’s what we’re watching in Washington:
HUD Proposes Rolling Back Equal Access Protections
This week, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) issued a proposed rule to weaken the agency’s Equal Access Rule, which ensures equal access to HUD programs regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
HUD’s proposal seeks to remove references to “gender identity,” “gender,” and “actual or perceived sexual orientation” throughout HUD’s regulations. It would also allow service providers who operate single-sex facilities, such as shelters, to deny access to transgender individuals.
Comments on HUD’s proposed rule are due June 29, 2026. Advocates can find more information at the Equal Access Rule Advocacy Hub. Justice in Aging will also share more resources in the coming weeks, including template comments for aging and disability organizations.
Audit Finds SSA Erroneously Charging Medicare Enrollees Part B Premium Penalties
A recent Social Security Administration (SSA) Office of Inspector General audit found that thousands of Medicare enrollees are likely being over-charged for incorrectly assessed Part B late enrollment penalties.
Late enrollment penalties can be assessed when a person enrolls in Medicare after they are initially eligible. These penalties can be avoided in certain circumstances, including when a person enrolls in a Medicare Savings Program or enrolls in Medicare during a Special Enrollment Period.
The audit found a number of errors in SSA’s processing of Medicare applications, including the treatment of Special Enrollment Periods and immigrants’ lawful presence and residency status.
The audit also found that enrollees were not given adequate notice of the penalties or their enrollment options. Medicare enrollees can challenge their premium penalty and access financial support through Medicaid, including Medicare Savings Programs.
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