This bill aims to prohibit medical professionals from soliciting individuals who have been injured in accidents or disasters for the purpose of providing healthcare services. It introduces a new section, 17-80-123, to the Arkansas Code, defining "medical professional" and "solicitation," and establishes that such solicitation is not allowed unless there is a prior relationship with the individual or it occurs more than 30 days after the incident. Violations of this prohibition are classified as a Class D felony, and any agreements made as a result of such solicitation are deemed invalid.
Additionally, the bill outlines penalties for violations, including the requirement for refunds to individuals or insurance companies who paid for services obtained through illegal solicitation, along with reasonable attorney fees. It also allows for private causes of action for those suffering financial losses due to violations, with specified recovery amounts. The bill clarifies that traditional advertising methods, such as direct mail or media advertising, are not prohibited as long as they do not involve coercion or misleading information. Overall, the legislation seeks to protect injured individuals from aggressive solicitation practices by medical professionals.