NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY MEMORANDUM IN SUPPORT OF LEGISLATION submitted in accordance with Assembly Rule III, Sec 1(f)
BILL NUMBER: A1035B
SPONSOR: Bichotte Hermelyn TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the general business law, in relation to prohibiting the
use of social media platforms for the purposes of collecting debts
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
The purpose of this bill is to prevent debt collectors or from using
online contact information as a means to collect on a consumer debt.
Summary of Specific Provisions:
Section 1 amends the General Business Law by adding new subdivisions 12
to section 601 that would prohibit principal creditors or their agents
from using the social media platforms as a means to collect on a consum-
er claim.
Section 2 provides the effective date.
JUSTIFICATION:
The Internet has made it possible to interact with people in ways that
were previously unimaginable: While the benefits of technology are read-
ily apparent - communicating with loved ones, reconnecting with friends,
and granting access to a wealth of knowledge and resources there has
also been ample opportunities and occasions of abuse. Several news
reports have revealed that debt collectors use the internet, particular-
ly social media websites, as a means to communicate with debtors and to
try to collect on debts. This invasion of personal privacy should not be
allowed in New York.
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
2021-22: A08622; Referred to consumer affairs and protection.
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
None to the State.
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.
