H.R. 6157 — FORCE Act of 2025

This section establishes Medicare eligibility under a new section 1899C for first responders aged 57 to 64 (i.e., attained 57 years of age but not 65) who have worked 10 or more years in specified occupations under the Standard Occupational Classification System (SOC codes 33-1010, 33-1020, 33-2000, 33-3000 excluding 33-3040, or 33-9092) and who would otherwise qualify for Medicare but for age. Eligible individuals receive the same Part A and B benefits and protections as standard enrollees (including access to Part D and Medicare Advantage plans), may enroll one month prior to eligibility or anytime thereafter, and receive coverage beginning the first day of the first month after enrollment until termination or standard Medicare eligibility at age 65. Premiums equal the standard Part B amount plus Part A (if applicable), are paid to the Secretary and deposited into a new Medicare First Responder Trust Fund (modeled on the Federal Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund), and coverage counts as minimum essential coverage under the Affordable Care Act; states may not buy this coverage for Medicaid beneficiaries aged 57-64 eligible for it.