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HB 147

Prohibited Practices in Consumer Debt Collection

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Peggy Gossett-Seidman and 1 co-sponsor

Florida law prohibits abusive debt collection practices to protect consumers from harassment while establishing collection industry standards and enforcement mechanisms.

Laid on Table, companion bill(s) passed, see CS/CS/SB 232 (Ch. 2025-23)
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Bill Summary · HB 147

Legislative bill overview

HB 147 establishes prohibited practices for consumer debt collection in Florida, setting standards for how debt collectors can interact with consumers. The bill was ultimately laid on the table after its companion bill, CS/CS/SB 232, passed and was enacted into law (Chapter 2025-23).

Why is this important

Debt collection practices directly affect millions of Florida consumers who carry outstanding debts. Clear legal prohibitions protect vulnerable populations from harassment, deception, and abusive collection tactics while also establishing industry standards that legitimate collectors must follow.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and enforceability: Defining which practices are "prohibited" versus permissible requires precise language; overly broad prohibitions could hinder legitimate debt recovery, while narrow definitions may fail to protect consumers
  • Impact on creditor recovery: Stricter collection rules may increase costs for lenders or reduce collection rates, potentially affecting credit availability or interest rates for consumers
  • Federal vs. state standards: Florida's regulations must align with the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act; conflicts or duplicative requirements could create compliance confusion

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

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