New Jersey Assembly Bill A1831

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Requires Medicaid Fraud Division to enter into data sharing agreement upon request of county to provide access to third party insurance liability data regarding certain COVID-19 related health claims.

Impact

If passed, A1831 will facilitate the counties' efforts to examine health-related claims submitted by individuals for services linked to COVID-19. By providing access to accurate and timely insurance information, counties can ensure that they are not disproportionately bearing the costs of these services when reimbursement is possible. The act aims to utilize existing public funds efficiently and fortify local capabilities in dealing with the financial implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on health services.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1831 proposes a requirement for the Medicaid Fraud Division within the Office of the State Comptroller to establish a data sharing agreement with counties in New Jersey. This bill is designed to allow counties to access third-party insurance liability data that will help determine whether individuals who received COVID-19 related health services have other insurance coverage. The intent of the bill is to improve the identification of potential insurance coverage for individuals under these public health services, thereby allowing counties to seek reimbursement from insurance carriers where applicable.

Contention

While the bill has clear advantages aimed at protecting public funds, concerns may arise around data privacy and the management of sensitive health information. Some stakeholders may worry about the implications of data sharing between state entities and county governments, particularly regarding the security of personal health information and the adherence to both state and federal laws surrounding health data. Opponents of similar legislation may also argue that it could increase bureaucratic hurdles and complicate the relationship between insurance companies and public health services.