'Abusive' Debt Collection Bill Advances in N.J.

TRENTON, N.J. (AP)  -- Efforts to combat harassing consumer debt collection practices in New Jersey continue to advance in the state legislature.

In one of its last acts before approving the state budget late last month, the Assembly gave its approval to the New Jersey Fair Debt Collection Practices Act by a 60-18 vote. That sent the measure to the state Senate, where it initially will be considered by the Commerce Committee.

Supporters say the legislation would supplement existing federal protections and limit collectors' ability to contact a debtor at work or at "any time and place" known to be inconvenient.

It also will protect consumers from harassing, intimidating or abusive collection practices and give them a way to dispute and verify debt information to ensure its accuracy.