State Rep. Angela Rigas (R-Caledonia) today expressed enthusiasm for Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s expected call for strong protections against medical debt. Rigas has been working on a plan introduced last year to shield Michigan families from the devastating impacts of medical debt, including her efforts to collaborate with Senate partners.

In November 2025, Rep. Rigas introduced House Bill 5254, which slashes the maximum interest rate allowed on medical debt under Michigan’s consumer credit laws. This bill is part of a broader bipartisan package in the House that aims to cap interest and late fees, limit aggressive collection practices, prohibit medical debt from appearing on credit reports, prevent liens or foreclosures on homes due to medical debt, and require hospitals to offer standardized financial assistance programs.

“I brought this important legislation forward and worked closely with my colleague Rep. Laurie Pohutsky (D-Livonia) to ensure strong, balanced protections,” said Rigas. “I recognized the need for bipartisan momentum, and I reached out to Senate colleagues, including Sen. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing), to align our efforts and build support across chambers. Medical debt can ruin lives, and this legislation will protect families who have already suffered enough.”

Senate companion bills, introduced by Sen. Anthony and Sen. Jonathan Lindsey (R-Coldwater), include measures such as the Medical Debt Protection Act, which limits interest charges after a grace period, restricts extraordinary collection actions (like wage garnishment or liens) without proper notice, and ensures refunds for overpayments. These efforts address the reality that hundreds of thousands of Michiganders, even those with insurance, face financial hardship from medical bills.

“I’m thrilled that Governor Whitmer is highlighting these protections in her final State of the State address,” Rigas said. “Medical debt shouldn’t ruin families or deter people from seeking necessary care. By capping predatory practices, easing burdens on working families, and promoting fair hospital assistance without overbearing mandates, we can make meaningful progress. This is a common-sense, bipartisan solution that puts Michiganders first”.

Rigas noted that the legislation has advanced through the senate committee process and enjoys support from many people concerned about affordability. She called on colleagues in both chambers to build on this momentum and deliver relief to families across the state.