The bill amends various sections of the Iowa Code related to civil procedure, specifically focusing on the admissibility of medical expenses and the disclosure of medical records in civil actions. It stipulates that evidence for past medical expenses must be limited to the amounts actually paid or necessary to satisfy incurred bills, without imposing an obligation on parties to seek reductions in billed charges. Additionally, if a claimant does not provide evidence of their medical expenses, the opposing party is permitted to introduce such evidence. The bill also clarifies that if a plaintiff claims physical or mental pain and suffering, they cannot refuse to waive confidentiality regarding their medical records, which can be requested by the adverse party.

Furthermore, the bill expands the types of economic losses that can be presented to a jury in personal injury cases to include past lost wages, future loss of earning capacity, workers' compensation, and disability benefits. It places the burden of proof on the plaintiff to demonstrate that the requested medical records are not relevant to the case. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the process of presenting medical evidence and enhance the transparency of economic losses in civil litigation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 622.4, 622.10