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Protecting Consumers from Government Debt Collection and Emergency Aid Debt

This act extends consumer protections against unfair debt collection practices to debts owed to state and local governments. It also introduces a mechanism to adjust damage awards for inflation and allows courts to issue injunctions to stop illegal collection activities. Additionally, it prohibits referring emergency assistance debts (e.g., FEMA) to private debt collectors unless fraud is involved.
Key points
Debt collectors must follow the same rules when collecting debts for state or local governments as they do for private debts.
The amounts of damages that can be awarded for violations of consumer rights by debt collectors will be regularly adjusted for inflation.
Courts can now order debt collection companies to stop illegal practices, providing greater protection against harassment.
Debts from overpaid emergency assistance (e.g., after natural disasters) cannot be referred to private debt collectors unless fraud occurred.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_2628
Sponsor: Rep. Meeks, Gregory W. [D-NY-5]
Process start date: 2021-04-16
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Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Debt Collection Practices Harmonization Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_2628.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-04-16.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Debt collectors must follow the same rules when collecting debts for state or local governments as they do for private debts.
  • The amounts of damages that can be awarded for violations of consumer rights by debt collectors will be regularly adjusted for inflation.
  • Courts can now order debt collection companies to stop illegal practices, providing greater protection against harassment.
  • Debts from overpaid emergency assistance (e.g., after natural disasters) cannot be referred to private debt collectors unless fraud occurred.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Meeks, Gregory W. [D-NY-5].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-27.

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