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 or registration 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 patient 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 the patients' immigration status. The Department is then tasked with compiling an annual report for the Governor and the General Assembly, which will include statistics on hospital admissions, the costs of uncompensated care for undocumented aliens, and the overall impact on hospital services. The Department may also establish regulations regarding the reporting format, ensuring that no personal identifying information is disclosed.

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