Reference No. CB-105-2004    Draft No. 1
Type: Council Bill Status: Failed
Meeting Body County Council
Meeting Date 10/5/2004
Introduced Date Public Hearing Date
Effective date:    
Title: An Act providing for the licensing of businesses that advance money in anticipation of receiving income tax refunds, providing standards for operation, and providing penalties for violations
Proposers/Sponsors: Thomas R. Hendershot
Code sections: 05-2601 - , 05-2602 - , 05-2603 - , 05-2604 - , 05-2605 - , 05-2606 - , 05-2607 - , 05-2608 - , 05-2609 - , 05-2610 - , 05-2611 - , 05-2612 - , 05-2613 - , 05-2614 -
Attachments: 1. ACTION SUMMARY S2004105, 2. B2004105.pdf
Contact: Ralph E. Grutzmacher Legislative Officer
Title An Act providing for the licensing of businesses that advance money in anticipation of receiving income tax refunds, providing standards for operation, and providing penalties for violations Background Certain tax preparation businesses engage in predatory practices that encourage taxpayers to take out unnecessary loans in advance of receiving a tax refund. These practices are especially harmful to lower income persons, persons with limited English skills, and persons with limited business experience. These loans are associated with high fees, high rates of interest, and waivers of legal rights to obtain relief when justified. The proposed legislation will establish a business-licensing program for persons who make or arrange loans associated with income tax refunds, will provide restrictions on the most egregious practices, and provide for disclosures and notices designed to give unsophisticated consumers an opportunity to make an informed decision prior to entering into such loans.



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