Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H8053

Introduced
2/27/26  

Caption

Provides that for purposes of all civil actions, the fair and reasonable charge for certain medical and dental services is the amount billed by the licensed healthcare provider.

Impact

The introduction of this bill could lead to changes in state laws regarding evidence admissibility in civil litigation. By specifying that the billed amount by the healthcare provider is the sole standard for what constitutes a fair and reasonable charge, the bill could limit the ability of defendants to argue against healthcare service charges based on insurance payments or other factors. This may result in increased financial responsibility for those facing civil claims, as the actual charges could now be easier to enforce in court.

Summary

House Bill 8053 aims to establish the fair and reasonable charge for medical and healthcare services in civil actions. The bill stipulates that in cases concerning personal injury or wrongful death, the appropriate charge should be the amount billed by the licensed healthcare provider. This represents a significant shift in how charges can be presented in court, particularly in cases involving medical, dental, or professional malpractice.

Contention

There are potential points of contention surrounding H8053, particularly concerning the implications for liability and the legal strategies available to plaintiffs and defendants in civil cases. Advocates argue that it creates clarity and fairness in litigation related to medical costs. However, opponents may raise concerns regarding its fairness to defendants, as it removes nuanced considerations of how medical costs are settled through various payment methods like insurance. Addressing these concerns is critical as the bill progresses through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5912

Provides for fair and reasonable charges for certain medical and health care services in civil actions.

RI H5256

Provides for equal pay for healthcare providers.

RI H6353

Authorizes a physician practice to charge a practice support contribution; provided that, the amount does not exceed $120 per year, per patient, enrolled in a healthcare insurance plan, (excluding Medicaid and traditional Medicare).

RI S0305

Establishes the right of a medical practitioner, healthcare institution, or healthcare payer not to participate in or pay for any medical procedure or service this violates their conscience.

RI S0846

Prohibits healthcare providers and health plans from denying the payment of a medical bill, solely because the bill may have arisen from a third-party claim.

RI H5561

Prohibits healthcare providers and health plans from denying the payment of a medical bill, solely because the bill may have arisen from a third-party claim.

RI S0874

Provides that licensed independent clinical social workers be able to enroll and bill Medicaid directly for covered services provided to adults with Medicaid fee-for-service coverage.

RI H5078

Provides that licensed independent clinical social workers be able to enroll and bill Medicaid directly for covered services provided to adults with Medicaid fee-for-service coverage.

RI S0306

Criminalizes the knowing and intentional failure of a physician, nurse, or other licensed medical person to provide reasonable medical care and treatment to an infant born alive as a felony.

RI H5295

Criminalizes the knowing and intentional failure of a physician, nurse, or other licensed medical person to provide reasonable medical care and treatment to an infant born alive as a felony.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.