Bill > A09166

This bill amends the New York General Business Law to create a new private right of action for debtors who experience improper debt collection procedures. Specifically, the bill allows debtors to sue debt collectors in court if they violate existing debt collection regulations, with the potential to recover three types of damages: actual damages sustained as a result of the violation, punitive damages (which are additional monetary penalties intended to punish the offender), and reasonable attorney's fees. This means that if a debt collector engages in prohibited practices, an individual can now pursue legal action and potentially be compensated for their losses, with the added deterrent of potential punitive damages. The law will go into effect 30 days after it is signed, providing a new legal mechanism for consumers to protect themselves against unfair debt collection practices.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A9166