Wisconsin Senate Bill SB832

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/19/23
• Refer: 12/19/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Payday loans. (FE)

Impact

The bill introduces several key regulations aimed at preventing predatory lending practices. Payday lenders will be prohibited from offering loans that mature in less than 90 days and must apply a portion of each periodic payment directly to the loan principal. Additionally, lenders are required to ensure that the loan amounts do not exceed what a borrower can reasonably repay based on their financial situation, as verified through an underwriting process. This could potentially lead to a decrease in the number of loans issued, but also aims to reduce the burden of excessive debt on consumers.

Summary

Senate Bill 832 aims to revise the structure and regulation of payday lending in Wisconsin. The bill redefines what constitutes a payday loan, establishing that such loans must have a maturity date not more than six months after origination, require repayment in equal periodic payments, and cannot be secured against real property or other collateral. This shift is intended to provide clearer guidelines for both lenders and consumers regarding payday loan agreements and the terms of repayment, ultimately aiming to protect consumers from unclear lending practices.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB832 include concerns about its potential impact on lending availability. Supporters argue that these regulations will shield borrowers from the cycle of debt often associated with payday loans, while critics claim that stricter regulations may limit access to quick credit options for consumers who rely on such loans in emergencies. This debate touches on the broader issue of balancing consumer protection with the need for accessible financial services, particularly for low-income individuals.

Further_details

The bill emphasizes the importance of consumer education by mandating that payday lenders disclose information about the payment plan and interest rates in a clear manner. It also requires lenders to inform borrowers about a financial literacy course developed by the state to help them better understand financial products. The implications of SB832 extend beyond regulatory compliance; they touch upon the financial health of Wisconsin residents and reflect a growing trend towards responsible lending practices.