(INDIANAPOLIS) - Two bills aimed at strengthening protections for Hoosiers facing medical debt are moving forward at the Statehouse following a coordinated advocacy effort earlier this month.
The Indiana Capital Chronicle reports the state senate this week passed Senate Bills 85 and 197, legislation supporters say would provide additional safeguards for people struggling with overwhelming medical bills. The votes come shortly after the Hoosier Healthcare Day of Action on January 20, when more than 100 residents from across the state gathered at the Capitol to share personal stories and press lawmakers for reform.
Organizers say the timing is critical. Nearly one in five Hoosiers currently has medical debt in collections, while health insurance premiums have risen an average of more than 20 percent statewide.
"Nobody should have to choose between their financial health and their physical health," said Dr. Lauren Murfree, a policy analyst with the Indiana Community Action Poverty Institute and one of the event's organizers. She said rising healthcare costs are forcing families to delay or avoid necessary care.
Advocates met directly with lawmakers during the Day of Action, and several Hoosiers spoke publicly about their experiences during a press conference at the Statehouse.
Institute Director Erin Macey said the legislation reflects growing recognition of the problem.
"This is about more than policy," Macey said. "It's about people from different backgrounds coming together to push for solutions that make healthcare more affordable and accessible."
Policy fellow Rebecca Freeman said the experience showed the impact of grassroots advocacy. "The fact that these bills passed the Senate shows that showing up matters," she said.
Both SB 85 and SB 197 now move to the Indiana House for consideration. Supporters say continued momentum will be key as lawmakers debate how to address medical debt during the remainder of the legislative session.
The Indiana Community Action Poverty Institute is a program of the Indiana Community Action Association and focuses on research and policy efforts to improve financial stability for Hoosier families.