Somos Votantes to Eliminate $133 Million in Medical Debt in Nevada
URGENT UPDATE: The Somos Votantes Education Fund has just announced a groundbreaking initiative to eliminate over $133 million in medical debt affecting tens of thousands of residents in Nevada. This major relief effort, unveiled on Wednesday, is set to impact approximately 128,000 people, primarily in Clark County, with additional assistance in Washoe County.
This program, developed in collaboration with Undue Medical Debt, aims to provide immediate financial relief to those who need it most. Importantly, eligible community members do not need to apply for this benefit—there is no application process. Those who qualify will receive a notification by the end of the month detailing the medical debt that has been forgiven.
The assistance targets individuals whose medical debt constitutes 5% or more of their annual income, as well as families earning at or below four times the federal poverty level—approximately just over $100,000 for a family of three.
Melissa Morales, President and Founder of Somos Votantes, expressed the significance of this initiative:
“This much-needed economic relief will allow entire families to focus on building a good life instead of choosing between paying for care or covering rent and groceries.”
Morales emphasized that this announcement is part of a broader commitment to advocating for affordable solutions for families in need.
Allison Sesso, President and CEO of Undue Medical Debt, stated that this partnership aims to assist those “least able to pay these burdensome debts of necessity.” She added, “We hope recipients feel encouraged to re-engage with the health care system without fear of the cost.”
Recent polling indicates a pressing need for such initiatives, with 45% of respondents struggling to afford common medical expenses and 35% carrying medical debt. This announcement comes at a crucial time as many families face the dual challenges of healthcare costs and rising living expenses.
As this initiative rolls out, those in affected areas should keep an eye on their mail for information regarding their specific debt relief. With ongoing efforts to address economic hardships, Somos Votantes is paving the way for a more financially secure future for countless Nevadans.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the organization works to ensure that financial burdens do not prevent families from accessing necessary healthcare services.
