FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | July 16, 2025
Contact: Sarah Fulton (302) 401-1114
ELSMERE — This week, a Trump-appointed federal judge in Texas overturned a consumer protection rule that banned medical debt from appearing on consumer credit reports. But thanks to legislation passed in the General Assembly this year, this practice will be upheld in the First State.
Sponsored by Sen. Spiros Mantzavinos and Rep. Kim Williams, Senate Bill 156 (S) prohibits medical debt from being used as a negative factor against one’s credit score, employment status, or housing eligibility.
“Nobody knows when they’re going to get sick. Nobody knows when they’re going to get hurt. Nobody knows when they’re going to be diagnosed with cancer or have a catastrophic health event happen. We’re all just one accident away from being in a life-changing financial situation,” said Sen. Mantzavinos, who has sponsored multiple bills tackling medical debt during his tenure in the Senate. “Given the rollbacks on protections we’re seeing across the board at the federal level, it has never been more important for us in the state legislature to pass meaningful consumer protection laws. I am grateful to my colleagues for helping us pass SB 156 this session, and I look forward to Governor Meyer signing it into law soon.”
The bill passed both chambers with unanimous support. Delaware joins at least 9 other states who have passed laws to shield medical debt from credit reports.
“The reality is that medical care can be extremely expensive and a large obstacle for families. Far too many Delawareans have chronic illnesses or long-term medical issues, their healthcare bills add up,” said Rep. Williams. “This legislation ensures that those are not unfairly burdened or punished simply for having medical debt – something that many people can’t control.”
SB 156 awaits the Governor’s signature.
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