AZ HB2581

Establishes a Health Care Claims Consumer Assistance Program within the Department of Insurance to help consumers file complaints, appeals, and settle disputed claims with health insurers.

Imposes civil penalties of at least $25,000 per violation when health insurers repeatedly and wrongfully deny or insufficiently pay valid consumer insurance claims after receiving notice and opportunity to remedy.

Requires health insurers found to have wrongfully denied claims to pay double the amount wrongfully denied or insufficiently covered, plus attorney fees.

Mandates health insurers disclose claims denial data to the department, including the number, percentage, and types of denied and wrongfully denied claims.

Appropriates $250,000 from the state general fund in fiscal year 2026-2027 to establish the program, with annual reporting requirements beginning May 1, 2027.