Oklahoma House Bill HB1543

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23
• Report Pass: 2/22/23
• Engrossed: 3/7/23
• Refer: 3/23/23
• Report Pass: 4/10/23
• Enrolled: 4/24/23
• Passed: 5/1/23

Caption

Uniform Consumer Credit Code; dollar amounts; reverting to a previous year's Consumer Price Index; removing the Advisory Committee; emergency.

Impact

The amendments proposed by HB 1543 are designed to establish more stable conditions for how dollar amounts related to consumer credit are calculated. The initiative to revert to a prior year's Consumer Price Index may lead to less frequent adjustments in these amounts, thereby impacting the cost of credit for consumers. However, the removal of the advisory committee could centralize regulatory power and reduce stakeholder representation in decision-making processes regarding consumer protections in credit matters.

Summary

House Bill 1543 amends various sections of the Uniform Consumer Credit Code in Oklahoma, specifically focusing on the changes in dollar amounts related to consumer credit transactions. This bill comes with an emphasis on reverting back to a previous year's Consumer Price Index for determining these amounts, which has implications for financial regulations affecting consumers and lenders alike. It also removes provisions regarding the Consumer Credit Advisory Committee, indicating a significant shift in the administrative management of consumer credit oversight within the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the passage of HB 1543 appears to have been notably mixed among legislators and advocacy groups involved in consumer protection. Supporters argue that stabilizing the dollar amounts and simplifying the administrative processes can lead to better business conditions for financial entities. On the other hand, critics express concern over the elimination of the advisory committee, suggesting it could hinder consumer advocacy and reduce the input from various stakeholders affected by these regulations.

Contention

Notable points of contention in the discussions around HB 1543 included the debate over the necessity of the Consumer Credit Advisory Committee. Detractors of the bill highlighted that removing this body could diminish consumer voices in regulatory changes that significantly affect lending practices. Moreover, the potential for backlash from consumer advocacy groups was a concern as stakeholders fear that the balance of power in regulating consumer credit may tip unfavorably, disadvantaging the needs and protections of borrowers.