The start of the new year is also marking a new start for many Californians who struggle with medical debt. As of January 1st, a new state law will keep medical debt off your credit report, which lawmakers say will help protect credit scores and encourage people to seek medical treatment when they need it.

The law is being seen as a big win by consumer advocates in a state where nearly 40% of people carry some type of medical debt. That number climbs to more than half for low-income residents.

For more, KCBS Radio news anchors Patti Reising and Bret Burkhart spoke with State Senator Josh Becker, co-author of the bill.