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How Virginia legislators seek to rein in debt collectors

The Virginia General Assembly is currently considering a bill that would impose stricter regulations on debt collectors, aiming to protect consumers from aggressive collection practices. The proposed legislation, championed by Del. Sally Hudson and Sen. Creigh Deeds, would limit the amount of interest and fees that can be charged on medical debt, cap the interest rate on other types of debt, and restrict the frequency and manner in which debt collectors can contact consumers. This comes in response to widespread complaints about harassment and the financial strain caused by high interest rates on debts. The bill has garnered support from consumer advocacy groups but faces opposition from the debt collection industry, which argues that such regulations could hinder their ability to recover legitimate debts. The debate highlights the tension between consumer protection and the operational needs of the debt collection sector.

Read the Full Richmond Article at:
[ https://richmond.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/virginia-general-assembly-debt-collectors-hernandez-coyner/article_1949fd4e-c17b-11ef-8f95-b38e33f05e60.html ]