Tennessee House Bill HB2669

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24
• Refer: 2/5/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 45 and Title 47, Chapter 18, relative to financial services.

Impact

The proposed changes under HB2669 could significantly impact how financial institutions operate in Tennessee, especially those with considerable market influence. By prohibiting practices that could result in discrimination based on social credit evaluations, the bill aims to safeguard various personal rights, including those related to free speech and religious exercise. If enacted, the legislation would mandate financial institutions to provide detailed explanations if they restrict or terminate services and establish penalties for violations, thus introducing accountability into the financial service sector. This might create a more inclusive banking environment, although broader implications for how financial risk is assessed may also need consideration.

Summary

House Bill 2669, titled the 'Equality in Financial Services Act,' aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning financial services. The legislation seeks to prohibit financial institutions from discriminating against individuals based on social credit scores, which can limit access to banking services. By establishing clear definitions and prohibitions in this area, the bill intends to provide protection for consumers, ensuring they receive equal financial services regardless of their personal or business practices that may be evaluated through a social credit score. This act emphasizes the importance of equality in access to financial services in Tennessee.

Contention

Despite its intentions, HB2669 has created discussions regarding the balance between financial inclusion and the legitimate assessment of risk by financial institutions. Some critics may argue that the ban on using social credit scores could hinder banks' ability to evaluate creditworthiness or manage risk effectively. There may be concerns about the impact of this legislation on small businesses and lenders, who often rely on such assessments to determine their exposures. Proponents of the bill, however, stress the need for existing protections to be strengthened against practices that infringe upon individual rights and liberties related to financial access.