Despite the federal uncertainty, California residents have additional protections.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — As people head into 2026 and take a fresh look at their finances, the impact of medical debt remains a concern for many households.
Sacramento-based financial advisor and coach Maureen Paley said medical debt can still show up on credit reports and affect credit scores, creating long-term financial strain.
“It’s really a burden for consumers, and it’s consumers that have to pay figuratively, for that being on their credit report,” Paley said.
At the federal…

