The House Health Policy Committee this week advanced a bipartisan package of bills aimed at providing meaningful protections for Michigan families struggling with medical debt. State Representative Angela Rigas (R-Caledonia), lead sponsor of House Bill 5254, celebrated the committee’s action as a critical step forward in delivering relief to hardworking Michiganders.

House Bills 5254 and 5255, part of a coordinated effort with Senate companions, seek to cap interest rates on medical debt, prohibit aggressive collection tactics such as wage garnishment and home foreclosures tied to medical bills, and implement other consumer protections. These measures build on bipartisan momentum to ensure that medical debt does not derail families’ financial stability or prevent them from seeking necessary care.

“I’m proud that the House Health Policy Committee has moved our bipartisan medical debt bills forward,” said Rep. Rigas. “No one should face financial ruin because of a medical bill. This package takes practical steps to limit predatory interest, protect families’ homes and wages, and promote fairness in how medical debt is handled. I want to thank Chair Vanderwall and all committee members for their work on this important issue.”

The legislation complements Senate efforts led by Sen. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing) and Sen. Jonathan Lindsey (R-Coldwater).

“No one should be forced to forego essential expenses or put their life on hold just for seeking the medical care they need,” said Sen. Anthony. “By putting a stop to aggressive debt collection practices that continue to trap families in a cycle of poverty, we can offer a crucial lifeline to help Michiganders get back on their feet. I’m encouraged to see these bills advance in the House, and I look forward to seeing the full package cross the finish line so we can start delivering the relief and protections Michigan families need.”

These bills address the reality that thousands of Michigan residents—many with insurance—still face overwhelming medical debt. By modifying interest rate caps under consumer credit laws, restricting certain collection practices, and supporting stronger hospital financial assistance standards, the package aims to reduce long-term financial harm while encouraging access to care.
Rep. Rigas urged continued bipartisan collaboration as the bills move through the legislative process.

“The committee passage shows what we can achieve when we put politics aside and focus on solutions that help real families,” Rep. Rigas added. “I look forward to continued work with my House and Senate colleagues to get these protections across the finish line for the people of Michigan.”

Rep. Rigas and her office can be reached at (517) 373-1403 or AngelaRigas@house.mi.gov.