MS HB278

Requires disputes between health care providers and insureds regarding assignment of benefits and billing to be resolved through binding arbitration rather than litigation.

Designates the Office of Attorney General, Consumer Protection Division, to enforce provisions related to assignment of benefits and billing disputes.

Prohibits health insurance policies from limiting or restricting an insured's ability to assign benefits to a licensed health care provider, with assignments valid for one year from the initial date.

Establishes administrative penalties for insurers failing to pay clean claims timely, ranging from $10,000 to $200,000 depending on the percentage of claims paid during the calendar year.

Takes effect July 1, 2019.