LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is working with a nonprofit group to relieve the medical debts of some Michiganders in 10 counties.

On Thursday, Whitmer announced what she called the “first round of medical debt forgiveness.” The $144 million is earmarked for some 210,000 of Michigan’s 10 million residents. According to Whitmer, the state is partnering with Undue Medical Debt, a nonprofit that describes itself as “one of the leading charitable organizations that help pay medical bills,” according to its website. The group continues the statement by saying they work to “end medical debt” and “ensure a future where everyone can access healthcare without fear.”

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Whitmer made sure to throw in a jab at Republicans and President Trump in a press release which states, “As the cost of health care continues to skyrocket due to Republican cuts to Medicaid, Governor Whitmer remains committed to keeping costs low for Michiganders.”

The ten counties announced in this round of “medical debt forgiveness” are Macomb, Jackson, Kent, Genesee, Ingham, Monroe, St. Clair, Calhoun, Lenawee, and St. Joseph Counties. Whitmer said this comes after Wayne, Oakland, and Kalamazoo counties partnered with Undue during the same program with a 2024 budget allotment.

Additionally, Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs (D) announced a similar measure on Thursday which includes a partnership with Undue Medical Debt as well. Arizona and Michigan have strong Democratic ties. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and her Arizona counterpart, Kris Mayes, host a podcast together called “Pantsuits and Lawsuits.”