SB 1664 - This act establishes the "Honest Billing Act". Under this act, each off-campus outpatient department of a health care facility, as defined in the act, shall apply for, obtain, and use a unique national provider identifier (NPI) on all claims filed after December 31, 2026, in this state for reimbursement or payment for health care services provided in that department. No facility shall submit a claim for services to a health carrier or hold an enrollee liable for such services, unless those services are billed using a separate unique NPI for the department, as described in the act. A facility that holds an enrollee liable for services billed in violation of this act shall be subject to Missouri Merchandising Practice Act enforcement by the Attorney General. A facility applying for licensure or license renewal in this state shall demonstrate its compliance with the provisions of this act as a condition of licensure. The Department of Health and Senior Services may impose specified penalties on any licensee for violating the provisions of this act. The Department of Commerce and Insurance may refer any violation of this act to the Department of Health and Senior Services. This act is substantially similar to HB 502 (2025). SARAH HASKINS

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mary Elizabeth Coleman

Missouri bill regulates health care billing practices to increase transparency and patient protection against unclear or deceptive charges.

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Legislative bill overview

SB 1664, the "Honest Billing Act," aims to regulate billing practices for health care services in Missouri. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, such bills typically address transparency in medical billing, surprise billing, or requirements for clear itemization of charges to patients.

Why is this important

Medical billing is a significant source of consumer complaints and financial hardship, with patients often receiving unexpected bills or unclear charges. Legislation addressing billing practices can protect patients from predatory or deceptive billing while potentially affecting how healthcare providers and insurers manage administrative costs and revenue collection.

Potential points of contention

Defining "honest" billing: Different stakeholders may disagree on what constitutes transparent billing—providers may resist detailed cost breakdowns as administratively burdensome, while consumer advocates may demand comprehensive itemization.

Cost implications: Stricter billing requirements could increase administrative expenses for healthcare providers, potentially raising overall healthcare costs or reducing provider margins.

Scope and enforcement: Disputes may arise over which healthcare entities are covered (hospitals, clinics, insurers, etc.) and what penalties or enforcement mechanisms apply to violations.