S4907A

The New York State Senate passed legislation to amend the Public Health Law and General Business Law on a 50-8 vote, with the bill sponsored by Sen. Rivera. The measure aims to protect consumers from aggressive medical debt collection practices and prevent damage to credit records. Sen. Krueger, speaking in support, highlighted that medical debt is the largest debt burden for American citizens and can devastate their financial lives, including through bank account seizures and home liens. She noted the paradox that despite high health insurance coverage in New York, residents continue to face severe medical debt problems. Eight senators voted against the bill: Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Gallivan, Griffo, Oberacker, Stec, Walczyk, and Weber. The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment.