Bill > H187

This bill aims to reduce unwanted communications from creditors by amending Chapter 93 of the General Laws. It establishes that a creditor must cease communications with a debtor about a debt if the debtor has notified the creditor, either in writing or orally, that they refuse to pay the debt or wish for communications to stop. However, creditors can still communicate in writing to inform the debtor that collection efforts are ending, that specific remedies may be invoked, or that a remedy is intended. An oral notice to cease communication is only valid for ten days unless confirmed in writing within seven days, and debtors can always rescind their cease communication request in writing. Creditors are required to inform debtors in writing, separate from regular statements, of their right to cease communications when an account is considered delinquent. Furthermore, if a debtor sends a written notice to a creditor to stop all communication regarding a bill or debt, the creditor must immediately comply and also forward a copy of this notice to any other creditor to whom the debt is subsequently assigned, ensuring the cease communication request remains in effect until rescinded by the debtor. For the purposes of this section, a "creditor" is defined as any person and their representatives involved in collecting a debt, but excludes those solely focused on repossessing collateral.