Mo. Rev. Stat. § 197.1045: Collection action by hospital prohibited when materially out of compliance with hospital price transparency laws.

On and after August 28, 2026, a hospital shall not initiate or pursue a collection action against a patient or patient guarantor for a debt owed for items and services furnished on dates of service that occur during a period of time the hospital was materially out of compliance with hospital price transparency laws as evidenced by either:

(1) An assessment of a civil monetary penalty by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for noncompliance with price transparency requirements under 45 CFR 180.90; or

(2) An official notification by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that the hospital has failed to remedy material deficiencies through warning letters or corrective action plans.