Nevada Appeal Capitol Bureau
Tuesday, March 16, 2021
Sen. Marilyn Dondero Loop, D-Las Vegas, on Monday introduced a bill that would sharply restrict some practices of agencies that collect medical debt.
SB248 would first require a collection agency to provide written notice to the person who owes medical debt at least 60 days before any action is taken to try to collect the debt. That notice must include the name of the provider, what services were provided and when and whether a third party has been billed.
It would also ask for any information about possible financial help to pay the debt.
SB248 would also prohibit collection agencies from commencing any civil action to collect medical debt of $10,000 or less excluding interest, late fees, collection costs or attorney’s fees.
Finally, it would limit a collection fee by any agency or attorney to no more than 5 percent of the original debt excluding interest and any other costs.
SB248 was referred to the Committee on Commerce and Labor for review.
