SACSS Applauds Governor Hochul for Signing The Fair Medical Debt Reporting Act

On Wednesday, December 13, SACSS, along with a coalition of nonprofits and consumer advocacy groups, applauded Governor Kathy Hochul for signing a historic bill into law to remove medical debt from credit reports that would protect patients from the impacts of healthcare bills.

“This legislation will help to protect individuals struggling with medical debt, unwanted subscriptions, and confusion over prices at the register. No one should have to jump through hoops to protect their finances and today we’re taking steps to help New Yorkers on their journeys toward financial freedom,” Hochul said.

The Fair Medical Debt Reporting Act (S.4907A/A.6275A) prohibits hospitals, healthcare professionals and ambulances from reporting an individual’s medical debt charged to a medical card to credit agencies. A medical card is a credit card offered by providers specifically for the payment of health care services, products, or devices. By prohibiting hospitals, health care professionals, and certified ambulances from reporting medical debt to credit agencies, this legislation will make it easier for New Yorkers to get jobs, secure credit, rent an apartment, pay for their children’s education and build long-term wealth.

This is a huge win for patients and those with medical debt. SACSS congratulates everyone who worked tirelessly to #EndMedicalDebt and make healthcare a right for all.