This bill aims to restrict billing practices for health care providers offering services under the early intervention services program in New Jersey. Specifically, it prohibits providers from issuing bills to patients for services rendered more than one year after the service date and from attempting to collect on such bills. Additionally, if a health benefits plan denies a claim or provides partial reimbursement, the provider cannot bill the patient for the remaining balance if the claim was submitted more than one year after the service or if it was submitted within one year but more than 18 months have passed since the service was provided.

The intent of the bill is to alleviate the financial burden on families who may receive unexpected medical bills long after their child has exited the early intervention services program. This program is designed to support infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities, and the bill seeks to streamline the billing process to prevent administrative complications for parents already managing the challenges of caring for a child with special needs. The Commissioner of Health is authorized to adopt regulations to implement the provisions of this act, which will take effect immediately upon passage.