Bill > S07167

This bill prohibits consumer reporting agencies from recording debt arrears for individuals experiencing COVID-19 related financial hardships. Specifically, the bill defines "COVID-19 related hardship" as situations including significant loss of household income, increased out-of-pocket expenses related to essential work or health impacts, childcare or family care responsibilities that negatively affect employment or income, and other pandemic-related circumstances that reduce income or increase expenses. If debt arrears are reported in violation of this prohibition, an individual can dispute the information, which must then be expunged from their file. The bill amends the New York general business law by adding a new section that prevents businesses, firms, partnerships, associations, and corporations from reporting such COVID-19 related debt arrears to consumer reporting agencies. The law will go into effect 30 days after it is signed, providing a protective measure for individuals whose financial difficulties were directly caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Business and Industry

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7167