On page 1, line 1, of the Introduced bill, after "the" delete " collecting and"
On page 1, line 1, of the Introduced bill, delete " in certain situations" and insert " to a consumer reporting agency"
On page 1, line 17, of the Introduced bill, after "debts." delete "Section 2. That a NEW SECTION be added to chapter 54-1:
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On page 1, line 18, of the Introduced bill, after "54-1:" delete "A hospital, as defined in § 34-12-1. 1, is prohibited from pursuing the collection of medical debt, as defined in section 1 of this Act, against an individual:
(1) If the individual informs the hospital of an appeal pertaining to a denial of coverage by the individual's insurance provider, provided the prohibition terminates when the individual receives a final determination from the insurance provider;
(2) Before the hospital has made reasonable efforts to determine whether the individual is eligible for assistance under the hospital's financial assistance program and, if eligible, before a decision is made by the hospital on the individual's application for financial assistance;
(3) Before the hospital has provided the individual with an itemized statement;
(4) For thirty days after notifying the individual in writing, by certified mail, or by other traceable delivery method, that a collection action will commence, absent additional action by the individual;
(5) While the individual negotiates, in good faith, with the hospital on the final amount of a bill for services or treatments provided; or
(6) While the individual is in compliance with all terms of a payment plan entered into with the hospital."