NJ A3849

Establishes the "Louisa Carman Medical Billing and Medical Debt Relief Act" to provide protections for patients facing medical debt in New Jersey

Requires healthcare facilities and providers to offer financial assistance policies and payment plans to eligible patients before pursuing debt collection actions

Prohibits certain aggressive debt collection practices for medical debt, including wage garnishment and property liens against primary residences for qualifying low-income patients

Mandates clear, itemized billing statements and requires providers to inform patients of available financial assistance programs before billing

Creates transparency requirements for hospital pricing and charity care eligibility to help patients understand their options for reducing medical costs