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A 9166

Creates a private right of action for improper debt collection procedures

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Claire Valdez

A 9166 - Creates a Private Right of Action for Improper Debt Collection Procedures OverviewBill Number: A 9166 Title: Creates a private right of action for improper debt collectio

REFERRED TO JUDICIARY
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Bill Summary · A 9166

A 9166 - Creates a Private Right of Action for Improper Debt Collection Procedures

Overview

Bill Number: A 9166
Title: Creates a private right of action for improper debt collection procedures
Status: REFERRED TO JUDICIARY
Introduced: October 17, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of this bill is to establish a private right of action for individuals who have been subjected to improper or abusive debt collection practices. The legislation aims to provide consumers with additional legal recourse and strengthen protections against unfair debt collection methods.

Key Provisions

  • Allows individuals to file civil lawsuits against debt collectors for violations of state and federal debt collection laws
  • Enables consumers to recover actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000 per violation, and attorney's fees
  • Prohibits debt collectors from engaging in a range of abusive practices, including:
    • Calling consumers repeatedly with the intent to annoy, abuse, or harass
    • Threatening violence or other criminal action
    • Falsely representing the character, amount, or legal status of a debt
    • Communicating with consumers at inconvenient times or places
  • Requires debt collectors to provide consumers with detailed information about the debt, including the original creditor and the amount owed
  • Establishes a statute of limitations of 1 year for filing claims against debt collectors

Affected Parties and Impacts

This bill would primarily impact individual consumers who have been subjected to improper debt collection tactics. By creating a private right of action, the legislation empowers consumers to take legal action and seek compensation for violations of their rights.

Debt collection agencies and companies would also be affected, as they would face increased liability and the potential for costly lawsuits if they engage in unlawful practices. The bill may incentivize debt collectors to improve their compliance with consumer protection laws.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

The bill has been referred to the Judiciary Committee for further consideration. If it passes the committee, it will then proceed to a full vote in the state legislature. If enacted, the new private right of action and consumer protections would take effect 90 days after the bill becomes law.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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