Connecticut House Bill HB05351

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/11
• Refer: 1/19/11

Caption

An Act Concerning Payment Of Finance Charges Incurred As A Result Of Fraudulent Use Of A Credit Card Account By A Third Party.

Impact

Should HB05351 be enacted, it would lead to significant changes in how banks manage fraudulent credit card claims and associated finance charges. Consumers would find relief from immediate financial repercussions while an investigation is ongoing, thus promoting fairness in banking practices. This amendment would likely lead to revisions in banking policies, particularly for institutions operating in the state's jurisdiction, ensuring that they align with the legislative changes established by this bill. As such, consumers might experience improved trust in credit card protections.

Summary

House Bill 05351 seeks to amend Title 36a of the general statutes, focusing on consumer protection with regard to credit card use. Specifically, the bill proposes to prevent banks from requiring customers to pay finance charges that accumulate on their credit card accounts during the investigation of fraudulent use by a third party. This expectation aligns with the aim to protect consumers from being penalized while their fraudulent claims are under review. By doing so, the bill attempts to enhance consumer rights and ease financial burdens in situations of fraud, placing greater accountability on financial institutions.

Contention

While HB05351 appears to be a consumer-friendly bill, it could face contention from banking institutions concerned about the potential financial implications and added operational responsibilities. Banks might argue that placing a moratorium on finance charges during investigations could lead to reputational risks and loss of revenue. Furthermore, opponents might raise concerns regarding the balance between consumer protections and the financial sustainability of banking operations. The measure could spark discussions surrounding the responsibilities of consumers in fraud prevention and how banks can mitigate risk without compromising consumer protections.