Bill > S1194

This bill prevents hospitals and community health centers from pursuing legal actions to seize a patient's primary motor vehicle or principal residence as a means of collecting medical debt. Specifically, the legislation prohibits these healthcare facilities from seeking legal execution (a court-ordered seizure of property to satisfy a debt) against a patient's or guarantor's primary vehicle or home, regardless of whether a homestead declaration has been filed. The bill requires the department of public health to develop regulations implementing these protections within 180 days of the law's effective date. This proposed legislation aims to protect patients from potentially devastating financial consequences by preventing medical providers from taking away a person's primary transportation or home as a method of debt recovery. By safeguarding these essential assets, the bill seeks to provide additional financial security for individuals who may be struggling with medical expenses.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1194