Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB2083

Introduced
1/8/24  

Caption

Making modifications to small loans under payday lending laws.

Impact

The modifications proposed in HB 2083 are expected to impact the way small loans are executed and managed in the state. It seeks to prevent predatory lending practices that often exploit vulnerable consumers, thus aiming to reduce the incidence of debt cycles associated with payday lending. As a result, potential borrowers might enjoy more favorable loan terms that are less financially burdensome, though it remains to be seen how lenders will adapt to these changes and what that means for overall access to credit.

Summary

House Bill 2083 focuses on making modifications to small loans under payday lending laws. The bill is aimed at regulating the payday loan industry by instituting stricter guidelines and limitations on lending practices. This includes changes in the maximum allowable interest rates, the term lengths of loans, and the fees associated with these loans. By establishing clearer regulations, the bill intends to create a more transparent lending process that better protects consumers while ensuring lenders can still operate viably within the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2083 appears to be mixed. Proponents of the bill, including consumer advocacy groups, view it as a necessary step toward protecting individuals from excessive loan costs and deem it a long-overdue reform. However, there are also detractors who argue that overly stringent regulations could restrict access to credit for those who genuinely need immediate financial assistance. This tension highlights the ongoing debate between consumer protection and the need for accessible financial services.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 2083 revolve around the balance between regulation and access to financial services. Critics argue that while consumer protection is important, lawmakers must also consider the potential impact of these regulations on lenders and their ability to serve customers. Some lawmakers express concern that limiting interest rates too harshly might lead to a reduction in the availability of small loans, consequently pushing consumers to seek more unregulated and potentially harmful borrowing avenues.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA SB5930

Making modifications to small loans under payday lending laws.

WA HB1918

Limiting the annual percentage rate for payday lending to 36 percent and making other modifications to small loans under the payday lending laws.

WA HB1292

Making modifications necessary to comply with federal regulations regarding dissemination of federal bureau of investigation criminal history record information.

WA SB5252

Making modifications necessary to comply with federal regulations regarding dissemination of federal bureau of investigation criminal history record information.

WA LB330

Change provisions relating to small estate affidavits under the Uniform Probate Code

WA LB134

Provide requirements under the Small Wireless Facilities Deployment Act

WA HB1805

Making robbery in the second degree a most serious offense under certain circumstances.

WA LB18

Require certain determinations prior to utility pole installations under the Small Wireless Facilities Deployment Act

WA SB5156

Concerning elevator standards in smaller apartment buildings.

WA LB214

Adopt changes to federal law regarding banking and finance and change provisions relating to digital asset depositories, loan brokers, mortgage loan originators, and installment loans

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.