LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – A group of bipartisan lawmakers in Lansing want to ease medical debt for Michiganders.

State Representatives Angela Rigas (R-Caledonia) and Laurie Pohutsky (D-Livonia) are joining forces with State Senators Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing) and Jonathan Lindsey (R-Coldwater). They introduced a package of bills that aims to shield families from aggressive medical debt collection practices. In addition, the lawmakers said the bills ensure fair treatment under the Michigan Consumer Protection Act.

MORE NEWS: Court Deal Hands NPR $36M in Federal Money After Clash With Trump Administration

“Medical debt affects millions of Michiganders, often leading to bankruptcy, denied care, or ruined credit,” Rigas said. “By curbing predatory practices, we can ease burdens on working families without undue strain on providers.” She continued, “People who are paying their debt should not be living in fear of foreclosure or bankruptcy.”

Senator Lindsey echoed Rigas, saying it is important that Lansing address the “out-of-control cost of healthcare.” He added, “We must also confront the stark reality that too many Michiganders are failed by the current system and saddled with extraordinary medical debt.”

Caps on fees and aggressive collection actions are also a target of the bills. Rep. Pohutsky explained that the legislation would “restrict and properly regulate the sale of medical debt and require that any overpayments are refunded within 60 days.”

In testimony before a Michigan Senate committee earlier this month, Sen. Anthony said, “For many, medical debt is not just a one-time expense. It can often lead to the beginning of a cycle of poverty.”

The Senate version of the bills are awaiting a vote on the floor. Both the Michigan House and Senate will be back in session in December.