Note8. Commitments and Contingencies Operating Leases We are obligated under non-cancellable lease agreements for certain facilities and equipment, which frequently include renewal options and escalation clauses. For leases that contain predetermined fixed escalations, we recognize the related rent expense on a straight-line basis and record the difference between the recognized rent expense and amounts payable under the lease as lease obligations. Lease obligations due within one year are included in accounts payable and accrued other expenses on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. We lease certain facilities and equipment under non-cancelable leases that expire at various points through 2026. Rent expense was $8,826 and $7,202 for the years ended December31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Future minimum payments under non-cancelable operating lease agreements as of December31, 2015 were as follows: Year ending December 31: 2016 $ 7,583 2017 7,170 2018 5,473 2019 2,585 2020 1,301 2021-2026 1,732 Total minimum lease payments $ 25,844 Legal and Other Matters We may be involved in various legal proceedings and litigation arising in the ordinary course of business. While any proceeding or litigation has an element of uncertainty, management believes the ultimate disposition of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or liquidity. Medicare RAC Contract Contingency In August 2014, CMS announced it would allow providers to remove all eligible claims currently pending in the appeals process by offering to pay hospitals 68% of the original claim amount. This settlement was offered to the providers and it was unknown what, if any, impact there would be for the Medicare RACs. On July1, 2015, CMS issued a Technical Direction Letter to the Medicare RACs, including ourselves, indicating that Medicare RACs will only be entitled to the contract contingency fee on the settled amounts of the claims, or 32% of the original inpatient claim amounts. Based