Iowa House Bill HF2348

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/24
• Refer: 2/7/24

Caption

A bill for an act regulating litigation financing contracts, and including effective date and applicability provisions.

Impact

The implementation of HF2348 will significantly alter the landscape of litigation financing in the state. It introduces foundational changes, including strict limitations on the conduct of litigation financers. For instance, litigation financers are prohibited from charging interest beyond the legal rate and from receiving payments exceeding a set percentage of any financial award obtained through litigation. The bill will hold litigation financers jointly liable for any monetary sanctions or costs imposed on consumers, enhancing financial protection for individuals pursuing legal claims.

Summary

House File 2348, known as the Litigation Financing Transparency and Consumer Protection Act, aims to regulate the practice of litigation financing within the state. This bill mandates the registration of litigation financers with the Secretary of State, establishing clear registration procedures and requirements. All information filed under this registration will be classified as public records, ensuring transparency in the operations of litigation financers. By requiring registrants to comply with designated standards, the bill seeks to foster a more secure environment for consumers engaging with litigation finances.

Contention

The proposed bill has sparked debate regarding the implications of such regulations on access to justice. Proponents argue that the bill will shield consumers from predatory lending practices associated with litigation financing, which can lead to excessive debts and unfavorable financial outcomes. Conversely, opponents raise concerns that over-regulation may hinder the availability of crucial funding for individuals unable to afford legal representation upfront. There are fears that reducing the flexibility of litigation financing could inadvertently limit access to justice for less affluent individuals who rely on these financial options.

Enforcement

HF2348 also empowers the Secretary of State to establish regulatory oversight and create rules pertaining to the practice of litigation financing. This allows for periodic review and adaptation of the regulations as necessary to ensure continued consumer protection. The legislation is set to take effect on January 1, 2025, applying to any civil actions or administrative proceedings initiated from that date onward, signalling a critical step in defining and clarifying the state's stance on litigation financing.