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 that patients are not liable for costs, expenses, and fees, including attorney's fees, unless the party taking such actions has complied with Section 48-304. The bill outlines specific limitations on the amounts that can be awarded in uncontested and contested judgments, as well as for postjudgment motions and writs. Additionally, it allows for the possibility of supplemental awards for costs and fees if they are grossly disproportionate to the amounts specified, provided that the patient has willfully attempted to avoid paying a legitimate debt.

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 those involving transferred judgments. This means that all related actions will be treated as a single entity 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