HOUSE  BILL  ANALYSIS

                 ON

             HB 2140

Brief Description: Regulating the costs and fees of collection agencies.

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BACKGROUND:  Washington collection agencies and out-of-state collection agencies operating in Washington are regulated by state law and the Department of Licensing. A collection agency cannot collect any sum other than the principal and allowable interest and collection costs specifically authorize by statute.     

SUMMARY:  The provision limiting collection agencies to statutorily authorized collection costs applies to consumer claims only.  A consumer claim is a claim incurred by an individual primarily for personal, family, or household purposes. 

     Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of the session in which the bill passes.

Rulemaking: Not addressed.