Connecticut 2016 Regular Session

Connecticut Senate Bill SB00173

Introduced
2/18/16  
Refer
2/18/16  
Report Pass
3/17/16  
Report Pass
3/17/16  
Refer
3/28/16  
Refer
3/28/16  
Report Pass
4/4/16  
Report Pass
4/4/16  
Refer
4/13/16  
Refer
4/13/16  
Report Pass
4/18/16  
Report Pass
4/18/16  
Report Pass
4/19/16  

Caption

An Act Concerning Connecticut Financial Institutions, Martin Luther King, Jr. Corridors, Money Transmission In The State And Fiduciary Duties Of Mortgage Servicers, Lead Generators, Technical Revisions To The Connecticut Uniform Securities Act, Retail Installment Sales Financing, Advance Rental Payments, Protecting Tenants In Foreclosure, Assessments And Technical Changes To The Mortgage Servicing Statutes.

Impact

The impact of SB00173 on state law is significant, as it amends various provisions related to the Connecticut Uniform Securities Act and mortgage servicing laws. One of the key changes includes imposing stricter standards on mortgage servicers, particularly concerning disclosures and handling of loan transactions. Such revisions are intended to elevate transparency and accountability within the mortgage servicing industry, thereby enhancing consumer protection against predatory practices. The law also enables the Banking Commissioner to conduct more rigorous oversight and impose sanctions on entities that do not comply with established regulations.

Summary

SB00173, also known as the Connecticut Financial Institutions Act, addresses multiple aspects of financial services regulation in the state. The bill introduces revisions to existing laws concerning mortgage servicing, fiduciary responsibilities of servicers, and regulations around lead generators. By enhancing oversight and setting clearer guidelines, the bill aims to protect consumers from potential misconduct in the mortgage industry, while also revising certain operational parameters for financial institutions in Connecticut. The legislation reflects a commitment to reforming how financial services are managed and regulated in the state.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding SB00173 appears to be supportive among consumer advocacy groups who argue that the changes promote greater accountability in the financial sector. However, some financial institutions express concern about the increased regulatory burden that could result from the expanded oversight powers granted to the commissioner. This tension reflects broader discussions about how best to balance consumer protection with the operational flexibility of financial entities. Overall, the bill has garnered attention as a proactive measure aimed at addressing ongoing issues in the mortgage servicing and financial regulations landscape.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB00173 stem from concerns about its potential impact on operational compliance costs for mortgage servicers and financial institutions. Opponents argue that the increased regulatory requirements might complicate existing business practices and impose financial strain on smaller entities. Additionally, there are discussions about the efficacy of lead generation regulations and how they may affect the competition and availability of services for consumers seeking financial products. The debate surrounding these provisions illustrates the challenges in navigating between consumer rights and maintaining a vibrant, competitive market for financial services.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

CT SB00067

An Act Concerning Revisions To The Banking Statutes.

CT HB05353

An Act Concerning Mortgage Servicers, Connecticut Financial Institutions, Consumer Credit Licenses, The Foreclosure Mediation Program, Minor Revisions To The Banking Statutes, The Modernization Of Corporation Law And Reverse Mortgage Transactions.

CT SB01110

An Act Concerning Consumer Credit Licenses And The Connecticut Uniform Securities Act.

CT HB07141

An Act Concerning Secured And Unsecured Lending.

CT HB05571

An Act Concerning Banking And Consumer Protections.

CT SB00412

An Act Concerning Lead Generators.

CT HB05490

An Act Concerning Consumer Credit Licenses.

CT SB00906

An Act Concerning Lead Generators Of Residential Mortgage Loans.