hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Medicare to cover home resiliency items for disaster-vulnerable individuals.
Sen. Markey, D-MA.
Introduced in Senate, referred to Committee on Finance.
This bill, the Survival Aid For Emergencies through Medicare Act (SAFE through Medicare Act), proposes that Medicare begin covering certain "home resiliency services" for individuals at medical risk during climate or manmade disasters. These services could include items like heat pumps or solar batteries for medical equipment. Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) introduced the bill, meaning it has been formally presented to the Senate but has not yet advanced through committees or received a vote.
Introduced Apr 21, 2026
This bill was introduced in the Senate on April 21, 2026, and referred to the Committee on Finance. For it to become law, it must pass both the Senate (potentially through committee review and a full Senate vote) and the House of Representatives, and then be signed by the President.
If this bill becomes law, certain Medicare beneficiaries who are determined to be medically at-risk during climate or manmade disasters could receive coverage for items that make their homes safer. For example, if you are vulnerable to extreme temperatures, Medicare might cover a heat pump. If your medical equipment requires electricity, solar batteries could be covered to prevent power loss. Additionally, special energy-efficient cold storage might be covered for medications sensitive to heat. These services would be covered starting January 1, 2027.
Supporters Say
Supporters would argue this bill protects vulnerable Medicare beneficiaries during disasters by covering crucial safety items.
Critics Say
Critics might raise concerns about the costs of expanding Medicare benefits for home improvements and the administration of such a program.
Proponents could highlight the potential to save lives and reduce healthcare costs by preventing disaster-related health emergencies for at-risk individuals. Opponents might point to the financial implications for Medicare, questioning the scope and administration of what constitutes a "medically necessary home resiliency service" and how eligibility would be managed.