Schmidt Holds Press Conference on Ohio Medical Debt Fairness Act

COLUMBUS—State Representative Jean Schmidt (R-Loveland) Tuesday held a press conference on the Ohio Medical Debt Fairness Act, recently introduced legislation to provide Ohioans relief from the devastating impact of medical debt. Schmidt is sponsoring the legislation alongside State Representative Michele Grim (D-Toledo).

Key provisions of House Bill 257 are as follows: 

• Lowers the maximum interest rate for medical debt to 3% per year, protecting patients from excessive and predatory charges.
• Prohibits hospitals, medical providers, and third-party collectors from reporting medical debt to credit agencies, ensuring patients receive necessary care while protecting their financial futures.
• Prohibits wage garnishment for medical debt collections, keeping families from spiraling into deeper financial hardship.

“This is a commonsense bill that will give Ohioans added safeguards so that they can continue to get well without fear of unexpected, excessive financial burden,” said Schmidt. “This is not a partisan issue; this is a people issue.”

House Bill 257 awaits a House committee assignment.