AR
Arkansas House Bill HB1204

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

Arkansas House Bill HB1204

Introduced
1/22/25  
Refer
1/22/25  
Report Pass
1/28/25  
Engrossed
1/29/25  
Refer
1/29/25  
Report Pass
2/5/25  
Enrolled
2/6/25  
Chaptered
2/11/25  

Caption

To Establish Recovery Of Damages For Necessary Medical Care, Treatment, Or Services Rendered.

Impact

The introduction of HB1204 could potentially transform the current legal landscape surrounding personal injury and medical malpractice claims in Arkansas. By clarifying the rules associated with the recovery of damages, the bill is expected to reduce ambiguity in how medical expenses can be claimed and potentially make it easier for plaintiffs to navigate the legal system. This change might also influence how insurance companies approach settlements, potentially leading to quicker resolutions in medical claims.

Summary

House Bill 1204 aims to establish the recovery of damages for necessary medical care, treatment, or services rendered. The legislation seeks to amend existing laws to ensure that plaintiffs in legal actions can claim damages corresponding to their costs for medical care that has been necessary and provided. This includes only those costs that have been paid by or are legally owed by the plaintiff or any third party. As such, the bill focuses on streamlining the recovery process for individuals seeking to be compensated for their medical expenses due to injury or negligence.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1204 appears to be largely supportive, particularly among advocates for patient rights and legal reform. Proponents argue that these changes are necessary to protect individuals who have incurred unexpected medical expenses due to the actions of others. However, there may be some concerns about the implications of such legislation, particularly regarding how it might affect healthcare providers and the medical malpractice insurance market.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the definitions used throughout the bill, particularly what constitutes 'necessary' medical care and the extent of liability for damages. Critics might express concerns that the bill could lead to increased litigation around medical claims or challenge the thresholds for determining the necessity of treatment. These debates underscore the importance of balancing the rights of plaintiffs with the operational realities faced by healthcare providers.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HB1418

To Establish Recovery Of Damages For Necessary Medical Care, Treatment, Or Services Rendered.

AR HB1765

To Authorize The Arkansas Towing And Recovery Board To Establish Rules Necessary For The Towing, Recovery, And Storage Of Electric Vehicles.

AR SB137

To Mandate Coverage For Necessary Maxillofacial Services.

AR HB1126

To Expand The List Of Medications For Conditions Or Treatments That Are Not Counted Towards The Prescription Benefit Cap Within The Arkansas Medicaid Program.

AR SB53

An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Division Of Medical Services Appropriation For The 2023-2024 Fiscal Year.

AR SB19

An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Division Of Medical Services Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1574

To Support Positive Mental Health For Families With Young Children Through The Arkansas Medicaid Program; And To Establish Supplemental Reimbursement Rates For Preventive Services For Children.

AR HB1445

To Establish Cost-reporting For Assisted Living Facilities To The Department Of Human Services As A Condition Of Participation In The Arkansas Medicaid Program.

AR SB348

To Amend The Liability Of Third Parties To The Department Of Human Services For Arkansas Medicaid Program Claims.

AR HB1614

To Establish The Water And Sewer Treatment Facilities Grant Program; To Transfer Funding From The Securities Reserve Fund; And To Declare An Emergency.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.