“Medical debt is a tremendous weight keeping so many families from financial security, and unlike most other forms of debt, it’s not a choice,” said Governor Stein. “Today’s announcement will free people from financial stress so they can focus on getting healthy.”

Wright, 61, now faces up to 20 years in prison and fines after admitting he abused his elected position to siphon money from the sheriff’s office Benevolence Fund — a charitable account meant to help employees in need — and used the stolen funds to buy pain medication.

Rickey Lyn Messer, 59, of Marion, was arrested on October 29, 2025, by the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office. Court filings show Messer faces three counts of third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, all felonies. 

Mayor Daniel Thomas presided over his last full public meeting as the Mayor of Boiling Springs Tuesday night. The November meeting for The Town of Boiling Springs was held Tuesday Oct. 28 due to municipal elections next Tuesday, Nov. 4.

An April survey had found that walk-in customers were waiting more than three hours. Meanwhile, the number of in-office transactions has risen 7% this fiscal year to 643,000.