The bill amends Section 48-305 of the Idaho Code, which pertains to fees and costs associated with extraordinary collection actions against patients. It establishes specific limitations on the costs, expenses, and attorney's fees that can be awarded in both uncontested and contested judgments. For uncontested judgments, the court may award up to $350 or 100% of the outstanding principal, while for contested judgments, the award can be up to $750 or 100% of the principal. Additionally, the bill allows for the recovery of costs related to postjudgment motions and writs, and it provides a mechanism for parties to petition for supplemental awards if their incurred costs are grossly disproportionate to the awarded amounts.

A significant insertion in the bill clarifies that the limitations on costs, expenses, and fees apply to all actions, proceedings, or judgments related to the original judgment, including new causes of action or judgments sold or assigned by the original creditor. This means that all subsequent actions stemming from the original judgment will be treated as a single action for the purpose of applying these limitations. The bill also declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 48-305