Bill > HB1632

This bill aims to protect consumers by implementing significant restrictions on how medical debt can be reported and collected. Specifically, the bill prohibits hospitals, medical providers, and collection agencies from reporting medical debt to consumer credit reporting agencies, making any such debt void and unenforceable if reported. The bill expands the definition of medical debt to include not only health care services but also a wide range of medical products and devices like wheelchairs, hospital beds, hearing aids, and various medical monitoring devices. Medical debt incurred through credit cards specifically issued for health care expenses is also included. The legislation requires that any medical debt contract must include language explicitly stating that the debt cannot be reported to credit agencies, and if this language is not present, the debt becomes unenforceable. Additionally, the bill mandates that collection agencies provide detailed, itemized statements when requesting payment, including information such as the name of the medical creditor, dates of service, specific health care services provided, and whether the patient was eligible for charity care. The bill applies consumer protection act principles to these provisions, meaning violations could be considered unfair or deceptive business practices. Overall, the legislation seeks to reduce the negative financial impact of medical debt on consumers by limiting its potential long-term consequences on credit reporting.

Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1632&Year=2025&Initiative=false