Assemblymember Yeager leads revision of healthcare regulations in Assembly Bill 343

On April 11, 2025, the Assembly Committee on Health and Human Services convened to discuss significant legislative measures impacting healthcare in Nevada. The meeting highlighted Assembly Bill 343, which aims to enhance hospital price transparency and address issues related to medical debt.

Assembly Bill 343, sponsored by Assemblymember Yeager, seeks to codify federal regulations concerning hospital pricing. This bill is particularly relevant as it responds to growing concerns about the transparency of healthcare costs, which have been a persistent issue for patients navigating medical expenses. During the meeting, Mr. Davis Florence presented the bill, outlining key amendments that could reshape how medical debt is defined and managed.

One notable amendment proposed by Martin Fitzgerald aims to revise the definition of medical debt and limits the authority of the Division of Public and Behavioral Health regarding license revocation for non-compliance with the bill's provisions. This change could significantly impact how hospitals operate and their accountability in financial practices.

Additionally, an amendment from Paul Morricon, representing the Vegas Chamber, introduces stricter penalties for hospitals that violate the Deceptive Trade Practices Act. This includes allowing patients to file complaints with the Bureau of Consumer Protection if they believe a hospital has acted unlawfully regarding their medical debt. The proposed regulations would prevent hospitals from pursuing collection actions while a dispute is ongoing, thereby offering patients greater protection against aggressive debt collection practices.

The committee's discussions underscored the importance of these amendments in fostering a more consumer-friendly healthcare environment. By enhancing transparency and protecting patients from unfair practices, the bill aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with medical care.

As the committee moved forward, they expressed support for the amendments and the overall direction of Assembly Bill 343. The next steps will involve further deliberation and potential adjustments before the bill progresses through the legislative process. The outcomes of these discussions could have lasting implications for healthcare accessibility and financial fairness in Nevada, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for reform in the healthcare system.