Texas House Bill HB3337

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/11/11
• Out of House Committee: 5/2/11
• Voted on by House: 5/6/11
• Refer: 3/18/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/19/11
• Report Pass: 4/26/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/24/11
• Engrossed: 5/6/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 5/9/11
• Report Pass: 5/19/11
• Enrolled: 5/25/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to the emergency medical services that give rise to an emergency medical services lien.

Impact

The implementation of HB3337 is expected to clarify the legal framework surrounding the recovery of medical costs related to EMS provided due to accidents. By defining the timeline for invoking a lien and the conditions required, this bill could potentially assist EMS providers in recovering costs incurred in providing necessary medical services. The lien serves as a financial safeguard for these providers, ensuring they are compensated when individuals are deemed negligent and receive subsequent care following an incident.

Summary

House Bill 3337 focuses on the emergency medical services (EMS) that can lead to an emergency medical services lien against individuals who have received these services. Specifically, this bill amends Section 55.002(c) of the Property Code to establish the conditions under which such a lien will attach to a cause of action or claim. The bill explicitly states that the lien may apply if the recipient received emergency medical services within 72 hours following an accident caused by another person's negligence, provided that the individual is located in a county with a population of 800,000 or less.

Contention

While the bill aims to support EMS providers financially, it may raise concerns regarding the burden placed on individuals who may be liable due to negligence. Critics of such measures often highlight potential inequities in how medical debt could affect individuals, especially in lower-income communities where medical costs related to EMS can be burdensome. The debate around these liens often centers on the balance between ensuring provider compensation and protecting the financial rights of individuals involved in accidents.