Bill > HR4096

This bill, called the "Financial Empowerment and Protection Act," requires a wide range of companies (referred to as "covered companies") to allow consenting cohabitating adults to open joint accounts for managing services and bills. These covered companies include utilities (electric, gas, water), internet and telephone service providers, landlords, mortgage lenders, childcare providers, and various other service providers. To open a joint account, both adults must agree, and the account will be in both of their names. Each adult will have the right to request and receive account information, including bills, electronic communications, and access to online portals. The company must provide a clear notice explaining what information will be shared between the account holders, and if required by privacy regulations, must also provide privacy notices to both adults. If a covered company fails to comply with these requirements, an individual can bring a civil action and potentially receive up to $1,000 in damages. The law defines "consenting cohabitating adults" broadly as adults who consent to live together, with a specific exception for childcare providers where it refers to custodial parents. The provisions will take effect 180 days after the bill's enactment.

Business and Industry

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4096/all-info