An Act relative to fairness in debt collection
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill, the Debt Collection Fairness Act, aims to improve the practices of debt collectors in Massachusetts. It seeks to protect consumers from abusive and harassing debt collection tactics, ensuring they are treated fairly and with respect. The legislation establishes specific rules and regulations for debt collectors to follow, focusing on transparency and limiting the ways they can contact debtors. Ultimately, the goal is to balance the needs of creditors with the rights of individuals facing debt.
Key provisions
- Debt collectors must provide clear and conspicuous disclosures about the debt.
- Restrictions on communication times and methods to minimize harassment.
- Limitations on the use of automated calls and texts.
- Prohibitions against false or misleading representations about the debt.
- Requirements for debt collectors to verify the debt's validity before pursuing collection.
- Protection against wage garnishment without proper court authorization.
- Establishment of a process for consumers to dispute debts.
- Increased penalties for violations of the Act.
Who is affected
- Debt collectors
- Consumers in Massachusetts
- Creditors
- Financial Services industry
- Legal professionals
Notable changes
- The bill establishes a comprehensive framework for regulating debt collection practices.
Bill text
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Text extraction is in progress. View the official source.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
5 on record
Primary sponsor
James B. Eldridge
Cosponsors
Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell
James B. Eldridge
Michael J. Barrett
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