SJR79 Alabama 2015 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Tim MelsonSenator

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2015

Title

ICD-10, Congress urged to delay implementation

Summary

SJR79 is Alabama's resolution urging Congress to delay ICD-10 implementation or provide a two-year grace period to reduce burden on medical practices and patients.

What This Bill Does

It urges the U.S. Congress to delay the mandated switch to ICD-10 due to costs, training, testing, and potential coding errors. It asks Congress to create an impartial committee to study the issues and recommend solutions. If a delay isn't possible, it asks for a two-year grace period during which physicians won't be penalized for ICD-10 mistakes and payments won't be withheld.

Who It Affects

• Alabama private medical practices and their staff would face significant transition costs and administrative burdens with ICD-10, without government funding or support.
• Alabama patients and the general public receiving medical care could be affected by potential disruptions or reduced access if ICD-10 goes into effect without adequate preparation.

Key Provisions

• Urge Congress to delay ICD-10 implementation and form an impartial committee to study the problems and recommend solutions.
• If a delay is not feasible, advocate a two-year grace period during which physicians are not penalized for ICD-10 errors and payments are not withheld for coding mistakes.
• Ask Congress to appropriate funds to cover the costs and administrative burden of the unfunded mandate on medical practices.
• Distribute copies of the resolution to Alabama's Congressional delegation and all members of Congress.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Resolutions, Legislative