The bill H. 3120 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 44-7-55, which mandates that hospitals accepting Medicaid collect data on the immigration status of their patients. Specifically, hospitals must include a question on their admission forms asking whether the patient is a U.S. citizen, lawfully present, or not lawfully present in the U.S. Importantly, the inquiry must clarify that the response will not affect the patient's care or be reported to immigration authorities. Additionally, hospitals are required to submit quarterly reports to the Department of Public Health detailing the number of admissions or emergency visits categorized by immigration status.

Furthermore, the Department of Public Health is tasked with compiling an annual report for the Governor and the General Assembly, summarizing the data collected, including the total number of admissions and visits, and providing insights into the costs of uncompensated care for patients not lawfully present. The bill also allows the department to create regulations regarding the reporting format and the information required on admission forms, ensuring that no personal identifying information is disclosed. This act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 44-7-55
02/04/2025: 44-7-55
Latest Version: 44-7-55
12/06/2024: 44-7-55