Pritzker, Preckwinkle seek to protect credit scores from medical debt

CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker and Cook County Board President Tony Preckwinkle are spearheading efforts to address medical debt.

A proposed bill in Springfield aims to shield individuals from having their credit scores adversely affected by medical bills they are unable to afford.

The governor says people should not have to keep worrying about healthcare bills just to stay alive.

"As many of you know, healthcare debt is a uniquely American issue. Across our nation, individuals and their families are forced to reckon with near impossible financial choices as the price tag on healthcare continues to increase," Pritzker said.

The governor commended Preckwinkle for her efforts in connecting people with available resources.