HSB 288: Relating to civil procedure, including disclosures that may be made to the jury and the availability of certain medical records

What it does

This bill relates to civil procedure, including disclosures that may be made to a jury and the availability of certain medical records. The bill allows the adverse party to present evidence of the plaintiff’s medical expenses if the plaintiff fails to offer evidence to prove the medical expenses. The bill allows mental and physical condition records held in a professional capacity to be discoverable by the adverse party by written request to the plaintiff. The plaintiff cannot refuse to waive confidentiality of those records if the plaintiff is claiming physical pain and suffering, mental pain and suffering, loss of full body and mind, or emotional distress.

House subcommittee · named March 4, 2025

• Rep. Charley Thomson (R) · charley.thomson@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Brian K. Lohse (R) · brian.lohse@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Rick L. Olson (D) · rick.olson@legis.iowa.gov

Lobbying · 2 for, 7 against

For: Iowa Defense Counsel Association; Iowa Insurance Associates

Against: Iowa Association for Justice; Iowa Coalition Against Sexual Assault; Iowa Medical Society; Iowa Mental Health Counselors Association; Iowa Psychiatric Physicians Society; Iowa Psychological Association; National Association of Social Workers, Iowa Chapter

In plain words

1. March 4, 2025Filed in the House and sent to the Judiciary committee
2. March 4, 2025House subcommittee named: Thomson, C., Lohse and Olson