Bill > A00057

This bill replaces the term "consumer credit transaction" with "consumer debt" across multiple sections of New York state law, providing a comprehensive definition of consumer debt. The bill defines consumer debt as any obligation of a natural person to pay money arising from a transaction primarily for personal, family, or household purposes, which can include credit transactions and medical debt, but explicitly excludes debts secured by real property and rent arrears. The legislation makes numerous technical amendments to civil procedure laws, affecting how consumer debt cases are filed, processed, and litigated in New York courts. Key changes include requiring more detailed documentation in debt-related lawsuits, such as providing information about the original creditor, account details, and the chain of debt ownership, and mandating bilingual notices in certain legal proceedings. The bill aims to provide more transparency and protection for consumers in debt-related legal actions by standardizing and clarifying the legal terminology and procedural requirements. The changes will take effect 90 days after the bill becomes law, with immediate authorization for courts to prepare necessary rule and form updates.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A57