Medical debt will no longer be reported on consumer credit reports in the state of New York. Specifically, charges from ambulance companies, hospitals, and healthcare professionals can no longer be divulged to credit agencies.
“As costs and inflation continue to creep up, consumer protection is one of the ways that our state is giving New Yorkers more purchasing power and keeping hard-earned money in their pockets,” Governor Hochul said.
The new law takes effect immediately, but there are exceptions to the legislation. Debt from credit cards and out-of-state providers can still be shared with credit agencies.
The law could potentially mean good news for low-income and Black families, as they are more likely to have debt totaling over $500 than white families, according to an Urban Institute report.
Credit agencies agreed to ignore debt under $500 earlier this year.