West Virginia 2022 Regular Session

West Virginia House Bill HB4334

Introduced
1/21/22  
Refer
1/21/22  

Caption

Relating to the bond required of license services by increasing the bond amount to one hundred thousand dollars

Impact

The increased bond requirement serves to strengthen consumer protection regulations within the state by ensuring that license services are financially accountable for their actions. By raising the bond amount, the state seeks to deter fraudulent behavior and enhance the financial security of customers engaging with these services. This measure aligns with the broader trend in legislative efforts to protect consumer rights and maintain trust in private service providers operating in the financial and licensing sectors.

Summary

House Bill 4334 aims to amend the existing statutes regarding bonding requirements for license services in West Virginia. The bill proposes increasing the bond amount from $25,000 to $100,000, which must be posted by operators of license services to ensure that they conduct their business without fraudulent representations. This change is intended to provide greater protection to consumers and financial institutions against the potential financial loss that could arise from dishonest practices by these operators.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 4334 appears largely positive among consumer advocacy groups and lawmakers concerned with consumer protection. Supporters argue that the bill addresses a critical gap in the current legislation that could leave consumers vulnerable. The proposal indicates a proactive approach to safeguarding public interests, which has been well received. However, there may be concerns regarding the impact of increased bonding costs on smaller license service providers, leading to potential discussions about the feasibility of such an increase.

Contention

While the bill has gained support, there may be discussions about how the increased bond requirement could pose challenges for smaller operators in the licensing sector. Critics might argue that such a significant increase could act as a barrier to entry, potentially affecting competition within the market. The key debate hinges on finding the right balance between consumer protection and maintaining an open, competitive environment for license services in West Virginia.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WV HB2677

Relating to increasing the amount of money for which a purchase may be made without obtaining three bids to ten thousand dollars

WV HB2126

Relating to increasing the amount of money for which a purchase may be made without obtaining three bids to ten thousand dollars

WV H6386

Authorizing The Stone Bridge Fire District To Issue General Obligation Bonds And/or Notes In An Amount Not To Exceed One Million Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars

WV S0982

Authorizing The Stone Bridge Fire District To Issue General Obligation Bonds And/or Notes In An Amount Not To Exceed One Million Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars

WV H5607

Redefines “farm” by reducing the amount of revenue from farm products required to be sold from ten thousand ($10,000) to two thousand five hundred dollars ($2500).

WV S0781

Redefines “farm” by reducing the amount of revenue from farm products required to be sold from ten thousand ($10,000) to two thousand five hundred dollars ($2500).

WV H7669

Increases the department's standard, burial allowance payment from nine hundred dollars ($900) to one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500).

WV SB792

Bail bondsmen; stating requirements for accepting collateral, exception to bondsman licensing prohibitions and exoneration of bonds for cash bondsman; providing for state of emergency; requiring cash deposits within certain time. Effective date.

WV HB5419

Relating to the licensure and regulation of mortgage brokers, lenders, and loan originators

WV HB2922

Relating to bonding requirements for persons licensed by the Construction Contractors Board; and prescribing an effective date.

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