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Senate approves amendments allowing first-class mail and limited email for health-care debt notices
Summary
House Bill 445 adds first-class mail and restricted email as allowable delivery methods for healthcare collection notices; sponsors said HIPAA concerns around text messaging were resolved and the bill passed 25–0 with four absent.
Senator Milner presented House Bill 445 on the Senate floor as an amendment that adds two methods for delivering healthcare debt collection notices: first-class mail and e-mail, with e-mail limited to individuals not on Medicare and who are under 65.
Senator Henderson asked whether the bill addressed past problems that had required registered or certified mail—an expensive method for facilities—and raised concerns from some providers about text messages and potential HIPAA implications. Senator Milner said the HIPAA concern had been resolved and noted the bill previously passed the House with minimal opposition.
Supporters argued the change reflects practical problems providers face when notices are not picked up at certified-mail locations and that limited email delivery will improve notice efficacy while protecting older beneficiaries. The Senate approved HB445 by roll call (25 yeas, 0 nays, 4 absent) and the bill will be returned to the House for the Speaker’s signature.
