Texas Senate Bill SB866

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to unconscionable prices charged by certain health care facilities for medical care.

Impact

With the implementation of SB866, consumers will have a legal framework to challenge emergency care pricing that is considered exorbitant. The consumer protection division would be responsible for enforcing this provision although the bill stipulates that it does not create a private right of action for consumers. This legal avenue aims to discourage emergency facilities from engaging in deceptive pricing practices, thereby promoting fair and transparent medical billing for emergency services. The enforcement mechanism includes provisions to allow the recovery of legal fees and expenses for investigations made by the consumer protection division.

Summary

Senate Bill 866 aims to address the issue of unconscionable pricing by emergency healthcare facilities. The legislation introduces a new section to the Business & Commerce Code, specifically targeting prices charged for emergency care. Under this law, if an emergency facility charges more than 200 percent of the average price for similar emergency services, such practices can be deemed unconscionable. The bill intends to protect consumers from exorbitant charges that can often accompany emergency medical situations, where individuals have limited bargaining power due to the urgent nature of their medical needs.

Contention

Notably, while the intent of the bill is to protect consumers, there could be various contentions surrounding its implications. Critics may raise concerns regarding how facilities will be evaluated for pricing and whether the thresholds set forth are sufficient to genuinely protect consumers. Additionally, there are potential concerns that emergency care facilities might respond to the legislation by increasing prices elsewhere or limiting services which could negatively impact access to care, particularly in unserved or underserved areas. The balance between preventing unconscionable prices and ensuring access to essential emergency services will be a critical aspect of the discussions surrounding this legislation.