The bill amends section 395.3011 of the Florida Statutes to revise the definition of "extraordinary collection action" and introduces new terms such as "furnisher of medical debt information" and "medical debt." It specifies that extraordinary collection actions include selling an individual's debt, reporting adverse information to credit agencies, and actions requiring legal processes, among others. Notably, it stipulates that if a debt is sold, it must not accrue interest or fees and must be returned to the facility if it qualifies for charity care.

Additionally, the bill allows for the furnishing of information regarding paid or settled medical debts to consumer reporting agencies and outlines conditions under which information about payment plans can also be reported. It mandates that consumer reporting agencies and credit scoring service providers adopt procedures to ensure that positive consumer credit information related to medical debts is included in consumer reports and used fairly. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 656 Filed: 395.3011