New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S04603

Introduced
2/10/25  

Caption

Establishes standards for the closure of bank accounts in the state of New York to include providing notice of closure and the return of funds to account owners.

Impact

The passage of S04603 would significantly impact consumer rights within the banking sector in New York. By formalizing the obligation for banks to provide notice and reasons for account closures, it enhances consumer protection measures. This change could empower account holders by giving them more control over their finances and ensuring they are adequately informed before banks take actions that affect their accounts. Moreover, the requirement for timely return of funds could also prevent delays that could harm consumers financially, fostering greater trust in financial institutions.

Summary

Bill S04603 proposes to amend the banking law in New York by establishing specific criteria for the closure of bank accounts. The bill mandates that banking organizations and out-of-state banks notify customers at least sixty days prior to closing any account, whether for personal or business use. Moreover, the institutions are required to provide a reason for the account closure and ensure that any remaining funds are returned to the account owner within that sixty-day period. This legislation emphasizes transparency and communication between banks and their customers regarding account management.

Contention

While the bill aims to protect consumers, some bankers and financial institutions may view these requirements as cumbersome or overly regulatory. They might argue that the ability to close accounts without extensive notice is necessary for business efficiency or in response to fraudulent activity. There may also be concerns about the logistics of implementing such changes, especially regarding compliance with existing federal banking laws which could preempt state regulations. Overall, the bill represents an intersection of consumer advocacy and regulatory considerations within the banking industry.

Companion Bills

NY A05031

Same As Establishes standards for the closure of bank accounts in the state of New York to include providing notice of closure and the return of funds to account owners.

Previously Filed As

NY A09210

Establishes standards for the closure of bank accounts in the state of New York to include providing notice of closure and the return of funds to account owners.

NY S09757

Establishes standards for the closure of bank accounts in the state of New York to include providing notice of closure and the return of funds to account owners.

NY A07794

Relates to establishing the banking bill of rights; includes due process requirements regarding applications for or closure of credit and deposit accounts and penalties for noncompliance.

NY S07583

Relates to establishing the banking bill of rights; includes due process requirements regarding applications for or closure of credit and deposit accounts and penalties for noncompliance.

NY S08933

Relates to notice requirement of adult care facility closures.

NY A09819

Institutes a moratorium on the closure of hospitals until the department of health completes a comprehensive analysis and report on the impact of such closures on healthcare access in New York state.

NY S08907

Direct the department of health to complete a report of the impact of hospital closures on healthcare access in the state.

NY A00956

Provides that school districts, including the city school district of the city of New York, are entitled to an apportionment of state aid for the closure of schools due in response to the novel coronavirus.

NY S01065

Relates to establishing limitations on bank accounts after such accounts have been closed including opening or re-opening such account, requesting a deposit or withdrawal or assessing certain fees.

NY A06320

Relates to establishing limitations on bank accounts after such accounts have been closed including opening or re-opening such account, requesting a deposit or withdrawal or assessing certain fees.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.