February 2022 Compliance Updates

Effective State Changes

ARKANSAS

On December 17, 2021, the Division of Workforce Services in the Arkansas Department of Commerce adopted the Forgiveness of Student Loan Program Rule. The program assists eligible employees with the repayment of qualifying student loans. Effective January 1, 2022.

NEW JERSEY

Signed into law on January 18, 2022, Assembly Bill 5033 authorizes motor vehicle dealers to sell motor vehicles online provided they meet certain physical requirements for their business premises. In addition, it allows dealers to obtain electronic signatures for motor vehicle purchases and leases. Effective immediately.

Assembly Bill 6162 established new building requirements for new and used motor vehicle dealers in regard to the size and signage of their business premises. Effective immediately.

NEW YORK

Senate Bill 2767 was signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul on December 22, 2021. The new law establishes the private student loan refinance task force. Effective immediately.

WISCONSIN

Signed into law on December 3, 2021, Senate Bill 437 eliminated the state of emergency exception for an unregistered vehicle to operate on a highway unless the registration has been mailed or delivered to the Department of Transportation or the vehicle displayed a temporary plate. The new law creates an exception for operating an unregistered vehicle due to an imminent public disaster, imminent death, or great bodily harm. Effective December 5, 2021.

2021 Year in Review – Compliance Updates

Review of State Changes Effective in 2021

ARIZONA

HB 2721 required Arizona motor vehicle dealers to disclose any Document Fee they charge in advertisements. Effective September 28, 2021.

SB 1463 made technical changes and established new fees for Premium Finance Companies and Advance Fee Loan Brokers. Effective retroactively to June 30, 2020.

ARKANSAS

HB 1893 exempted certain electric and hybrid vehicles from registration fees. Effective retroactively to October 1, 2019.

CALIFORNIA

AB 1864 enacted the California Consumer Financial Protection Law. Effective January 1, 2021.

COLORADO

SB 21-076 imposed a per-transaction fee up to $3, set by the Department of Revenue, on third-party providers to issue titles, registrations, and liens. Effective July 7, 2021.

CONNECTICUT

HB 6100 modernized the motor vehicle Lemon Law. Effective October 1, 2021.

FLORIDA

SB 50 required internet marketplace providers and persons outside of Florida to remit discretionary sales surtax. Effective, in part, on July 1, 2021.

GEORGIA

HB 111 clarified language around credit unions and banks and established the right for a hardship or convenience deferment of an installment loan. Effective July 1, 2021.

HAWAII

HB 1192 created a new small dollar installment loan scheme for loans up to $1,500. Bill effective July 1, 2021; licensing requirements effective January 1, 2022.

ILLINOIS

The State of Illinois increased its document preparation fee to $303.60. Effective January 1, 2021.

SB 1792 a maximum charge of 36% APR computed like the MAPR for consumer loans, motor vehicle sales, and retail installment sales. Effective March 23, 2021.

INDIANA

Indiana published dollar adjustments under the consumer credit code for sales, supervised loans, and small loans. Effective January 1, 2021 – December 31, 2023.

IOWA

HF 235 removed requirements to collect a service charge for loans and also prohibited a creditor from collecting a minimum charge upon prepayment. Effective July 1, 2021.

LOUISIANA

SB 67 raised the Documentary Service Fee for the sale of a motor vehicle from $200 to $425. Effective August 1, 2021.

MAINE

LD 522 granted to Maine consumers the right to void a loan that is fraudulently procured under Maine finance law. Effective June 28, 2021.

MARYLAND

SB 281 extended the statutory and regulatory authority of Office of the Commissioner of Financial Regulation’s through July 1, 2032. Effective April 13, 2021.

MICHIGAN

Bulletin 2021-04 adjusted the documentary preparation fee cap to $230. The fee is the lesser of $230 or 5% of the cash price of the motor vehicle. Effective January 15, 2021.

MISSISSIPPI

HB 1075 reenacted the Mississippi Credit Availability Act through July 2026. Effective July 1, 2021.

NEBRASKA

LB 363 defined licensing requirements for sales financing companies who offer installment sales contracts. Effective immediately, March 17, 2021.

NEW HAMPSHIRE

HB 610 required retail sellers, sale finance companies, small loan lenders, debt adjusters, and money transmitters to license with the NMLS. Effective October 9, 2021.

NEW YORK

A10118-A/ S05470B required certain disclosures for commercial financing transactions. Effective June 21, 2021. (Effective date updated to January 1, 2022 per SB 898.)

NORTH DAKOTA

SB 2103 amended money broker loan charges, expanded licensing exemptions, and changed deferred presentment service transaction procedures. Effective August 1, 2021.

OKLAHOMA

The Department of Consumer Credit published the changes in dollar brackets for §2-201, § 3-508(B). The dollar amounts for § 3-508(A) are the same. Effective July 1, 2021.

SB 796 amended the Oklahoma Uniform Commercial Code, specifically changing the brackets, rates, and ceilings of Section 3-508A. Effective November 1, 2021.

PENNSYLVANIA

Pennsylvania’s maximum allowed document preparation fee for 2021 is either $328 or $394 (if electronically filed). Effective January 1, 2021.

SOUTH CAROLINA

Orders 2020-03, 2020-04, and 2020-05 confirmed Prima Facie Credit A&H and Credit Property rates for 2021. Effective January 1, 2021 – December 31, 2021.

SOUTH DAKOTA

SB 8 defined supervised banks, credit unions, foreign banks, and trusts as subject to examination and enforcement. Effective July 1, 2021.

TENNESSEE

HB 421 increased fees and added new fees an industrial loan entity may charge under Tennessee law. Effective July 1, 2021.

TEXAS

The Texas OCCC released the dollar brackets and ceilings for Consumer Loans and Retail Installment Sales. Effective July 1, 2021.

VIRGINIA

HB 789 set a maximum interest rate of 36% for Installment Loans, Open-End Credit Plans, Short Term Lenders, and Motor Vehicle Title Loans. Effective January 1, 2021.

WISCONSIN

Revised Prima Facie Credit Life and Credit Accident and Sickness Insurance rates were released on October 15, 2020. Effective January 1, 2021 – December 31, 2024.

WYOMING

HB 8 capped a consumer loan finance charge at 36% per year on the principal that is equal or less than $1,000, and 21% on the principal above $1,000. Effective July 1, 2021.

Review of State Changes Effective in 2022 & 2023

ARKANSAS

SB 225 updates registration fees for plug-in electric vehicle to $100 and hybrid electric vehicle to $50. Effective January 1, 2022.

HB 1042 repeals the long-term rental vehicle excise tax. Effective January 13, 2022.

SB 184 repeals the Arkansas Pawnbroker Act. Effective January 13, 2022.

HB 1912 provides a reduced sales and use tax rate for certain used motor vehicles, trailers, and semitrailers. Effective January 1, 2022.

CALIFORNIA

SB 908 enacts the Debt Collection Act (“DCLA”). Effective January 1, 2022.

AB 1221 specifies that a service contract may be offered on a month-to-month or other periodic basis and continued until canceled by the buyer. Effective January 1, 2022.

AB 424 enacts the Private Student Loan Collections Reform Act. Effective July 1, 2022.

Proposition 24 passed and expands consumer privacy protections. Effective January 1, 2023.

GEORGIA

HB 63 alters the alternative ad valorem tax on motor vehicles. Effective January 1, 2022.

ILLINOIS

The document preparation fee in the State of Illinois rises from $303.60 to $324.24. Effective January 1, 2022.

HB 3940 amends the Motor Vehicle Franchise Act. Effective January 1, 2022.

SB 58 restores the full sales tax trade-in credit on vehicle trade-ins. Effective January 1, 2022.

INDIANA

HB 1285 sets up a statewide electronic titling and lien system. Effective, in part, on January 1, 2022.

Bulletin 262 adjusts the credit life rates. Effective January 1, 2022.

IOWA

Iowa released new regulations increasing the special annual registration fees for electric vehicles. Effective January 1, 2021, and January 1, 2022.

HF 719 creates the Insurance Data Security Act which enacts standards for data security and data breach investigations. Effective January 1, 2022.

MICHIGAN

HB 4117 allows the Secretary of State to issue vehicle registrations for two years if requested by the vehicle owner. Effective October 1, 2022.

NEW JERSEY

SB 324 directs the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission to promulgate rules for electronic registration certificates. Effective May 1, 2023.

NEW MEXICO

Prima Facie Credit Insurance Rates were updated by Bulletin 2021-0028 and will go into effect on February 1, 2022.

NEW YORK

SB 898 amends A10118-A/S05470B and exempts transactions of at least $50,000 for auto dealers from commercial financing disclosures. Effective January 1, 2022.

NORTH CAROLINA

SB 425 makes changes to the current statutes governing Guaranteed Asset Protection Waivers. Effective January 1, 2022.

OREGON

SB 485 declares a student loan emergency and creates new procedures in Oregon for student loan lenders. Effective July 1, 2022.

PENNSYLVANIA

Pennsylvania’s maximum allowed document preparation fee for 2022 is either $351 or $422 (if electronically filed). Effective January 1, 2022.

SOUTH CAROLINA

Orders 2021-02, 2021-03, and 2021-04 were adopted by the Department of Insurance for Prima Facie Credit A&H and Credit Property rates. Effective January 1, 2022.

VIRGINIA

The Virginia Consumer Data Protection Act establishes rights for Virginia consumers to control how companies use their personal data. Effective January 1, 2023.

The Order Adopting Adjusted Prima Facie Rates for the Triennium Commencing January 1, 2022, enacts new rates for a 3-year period. Effective January 1, 2022.

WASHINGTON

SB 5000 reduces taxes 50% on fuel-cell powered passenger cars, light duty trucks, and medium duty passenger vehicles powered by a fuel cell. Effective July 1, 2022.

Review of Federal Changes Effective in 2021

CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION BUREAU

Dollar threshold adjustments announced for the Ability to Repay/ Qualified Mortgage Rule and HOEPA. Effective January 1, 2021.

The CFPB published its annual TILA threshold adjustment, as required by the Dodd-Frank. Effective January 1, 2021.

The CFPB released a notice to collect and report on credit applications made by small businesses. Comments were accepted until November 29, 2021.

On October 30, 2020, the CFPB released the Final Rule for Debt Collection Practices—Regulation F. Effective November 30, 2021.

Review of Federal Changes Effective in 2022

CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION BUREAU

Dollar threshold adjustments were announced for the Ability to Repay/ Qualified Mortgage Rule and HOEPA. Effective January 1, 2022.

The CFPB published its annual TILA threshold adjustment, as required by the Dodd-Frank. Effective January 1, 2022.

The CFPB delayed the mandatory compliance date for the new qualified mortgage (QM) final rule. New effective date is October 1, 2022.

November & December 2021 Compliance Updates

Effective State Changes

ILLINOIS

House Bill 1796 was signed into law by Governor J B Pritzker on November 16, 2021. This new law introduces the Reimagining Electric Vehicles in Illinois Act. Among other provisions, the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity shall provide financial incentives and tax credits to eligible manufacturers of electric vehicles, component parts, and power supply equipment. Effective immediately.

The document preparation fee in the State of Illinois rises from $303.60 to $324.24. Effective January 1, 2022.

INDIANA

Published in Bulletin 262 on November 30, 2021, the Indiana Insurance Commissioner adjusted credit life rates effective January 1, 2022. The discount rate used for credit life is 1.82%. The discount rate used for accident and health is 1.42%.

Credit life prima facie rates for monthly outstanding balance are increased to:

  • $0.81 per month per $1000 of outstanding insured debt on single life
  • $1.35 per month per $1000 of outstanding insured debt on joint life

The A&H rates will remain the same as the those established in Bulletin 246. The 12-month rate per $100 of Initial Insured Indebtedness will be as follows:

  • 14 Retro:  $1.50
  • 14 Elim:    $1.05
  • 30 Retro:  $1.03
  • 30 Elim:    $0.77

Effective January 1, 2022.

MICHIGAN

House Bill 4117 would allow the Secretary of State to issue vehicle registrations for two years if requested by the vehicle owner. Effective October 1, 2022.

NEW JERSEY

Senate Bill 324 directs the Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission to promulgate rules and regulations in order to create electronic registration certificates. Effective May 1, 2023.

SOUTH CAROLINA

On October 1, 2021, the South Carolina Department of Insurance adopted Orders 2021-02, 2021-03, and 2021-04 confirming Prima Facie Credit A&H and Credit Property rates for 2022. Under 2021-02, the Credit A&H rates for insurance sold in conjunction with consumer credit transactions in 2022 will decrease from their current rates in 2021. The 12-month rate for $100 of Initial Insured Indebtedness will be as follows:

  • 14-day Retro: $1.38
  • 30-day Retro: $1.30

Under Order 2021-03, Credit Property rates for Automobile Fire and Theft, Automobile Collision, and Household Goods – Dual Interest, have decreased. Household Goods – Single Interest remains the same. Under Order 2021-04, the 3-day retroactive A&H rate for insurance sold in conjunction with loans will decrease to $0.25 per $5.00 of monthly indemnity. Effective January 1, 2022.

Effective Federal Changes 

CFPB – ANNUAL REGULATION M & Z ADJUSTMENTS

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (“CFPB”) published its annual Truth in Lending Act threshold adjustment, as required by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010. For 2022 the exemption threshold amount for Regulation M and Z will remain the same at $61,000. Effective January 1, 2022.

Reminders

VIRGINIA

In August, we reported on Virginia’s adjustment of the prima facie rates which were adopted for a three-year period. The Accident & Sickness rates for 2022 were updated. The 12-month rate for $100 of Initial Insured Indebtedness will be as follows:

  • 14-day Retro: $1.56
  • 30-day Retro: $1.12

Pursuant to Case No. INS-2021-00023, the credit life insurance rates will be $0.6672 per month per $1,000.00 of outstanding insured indebtedness if premiums are payable on a monthly outstanding balance basis. The rate per $100.00 of initial indebtedness repayable in 12 equal monthly installments is $0.4259. Effective January 1, 2022.

October 2021 Compliance Updates

Effective State Changes

CALIFORNIA

Signed into law on October 4, 2021, Assembly Bill 1221 specifies that a service contract may be offered on a month-to-month or other periodic basis and continue until canceled by the buyer The bill also gives service contractors numerous provisions regarding a conspicuous notice and ways to cancel the service contract. Vehicle service contracts are exempted from various provisions. Effective January 1, 2022.

On October 6, 2021, Governor Gavin Newsome signed Assembly Bill 424 into law enacting the Private Student Loan Collections Reform Act. The act would prohibit a private education lender or a private education loan collector from attempting to collect a private education loan unless certain information is provided to the debtor. Additionally, the Private Student Loan Collections Reform Act would require all settlement agreements between a private education lender or loan collector and a debtor to be documented in open court or memorialized in writing. Effective July 1, 2022.

NORTH CAROLINA

Signed by the Governor on October 28, 2021, Senate Bill 425 makes changes to the current statutes governing Guaranteed Asset Protection Waivers. The new language specifies that a GAP waiver may be with or without a separate charge. The language also states that the cost of a GAP waiver shall be considered an authorized charged that may be financed and shall not be considered part of the finance charge or interest. The Act adds a new Article 48 concerning Vehicle Value Protection Agreements and specifies requirements for offering such an agreement, as well as disclosure requirements. Effective January 1, 2022.

Effective Federal Changes     

CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION BUREAU

Specific dollar threshold adjustments were announced through the Consumer Protection Financial Bureau. The CPFB is required to make adjustments to dollar thresholds based on annual changes in the Consumer Price Index. Updates to the Ability to Repay/ Qualified Mortgage Rule, (“ATR/QM”) and Home Ownership Equity Protection Act (“HOEPA”), among others, were announced and become effective January 1, 2022.

HOEPA Annual Threshold Adjustments:

  • The adjusted total amount of the loan threshold will be $22,969, up from $22,052
  • The adjusted points and fees trigger will be $1,148, up from $1,103

ATR/QM Threshold Adjustments – To meet qualified mortgage criteria, the combined points and fees cannot exceed the following:

  • 8% of total loan amount for loans less than $14,356
  • $1,148 for loans greater than or equal to $14,356 but less than $22,969
  • 5% of total loan amount for loans greater than or equal to $22,969 but less than $68,908
  • $3,445 for loans greater than or equal to $68,908 but less than $114,847
  • 3% of total loan amount for loans greater than or equal to $114,847

September 2021 Compliance Updates

Effective State Changes

COLORADO

On August 25, 2021, the emergency filing of the Colorado Student Loan Servicers Act Rules—4 CCR 902-3—were adopted. Effective September 1, 2021.

ILLINOIS

On August 27, 2021, Governor JB Pritzker signed House Bill 2746 the Know Before You Owe Private Education Loan Act into law. The new law affects private education lenders and has a number of requirements to provide information to students before they enter these loans. Additionally, the law requires these lenders to file reports with the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Effective immediately.

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Governor John Sununu approved of House Bill 610 on August 10, 2021. Among other provisions, the new law requires retail sellers, sale finance companies, small loan lenders, debt adjusters, and money transmitters to license via the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System and Registry in New Hampshire. Effective October 9, 2021.

NORTH CAROLINA

House Bill 403 was signed into law by Governor Roy Cooper on September 10, 2021. The new law makes several changes to North Carolina’s Motor Vehicle Dealers and Manufacturers Licensing Law. Among other provisions, the bill prohibits conditioning approval of dealership transfers on a dealer’s willingness to renovate, relocate, or other conditions. Additionally, among other provisions the new law:

  • Extends conditions for certain manufacturer incentive programs.
  • Clarifies changes to existing law regarding warranties.
  • Ensures delivery of prepared documents at a customer’s home will not violate salesroom restrictions for vehicle sales.

Effective immediately.

Governor Cooper also enacted House Bill 650 on September 2, 2021. This new law makes a number of changes to the existing motor vehicle and motor vehicle dealer laws. Changes include:

  • Clarifies sales representative licensing provisions.
  • Modifies the grounds for revoking sales representative licenses.
  • Limits the ability to revoke the licenses of vehicle dealers.

Effective October 1, 2021.

Senate Bill 379 requires the North Carolina DMV to issue an unregisterable certificate of title for motor vehicles. In addition, it establishes an application process to apply for an unregistrable certificate of title. Effective October 1, 2021.

Reminders

OKLAHOMA

Section 3-508A increases the cap on loan finance charges from 27% to 32% per year on unpaid balances of the principal of $7,000 or less, 23% per year on the unpaid balances of the principal more than $7,000 to $11,000, and 20% on the unpaid balances of the principal more than $11,000. The bill also provides for a closing fee upon prepayment in full of up to $28.85 under Section 3-210. Effective November 1, 2021.

Effective Federal Changes     

CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION BUREAU

On August 31, 2021, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (“CFPB”) released a notice for proposed rulemaking in order to collect and report on credit applications made by small businesses. The focused collection will analyze data from minority and woman owned businesses. Comments will be accepted until November 29, 2021.

July & August 2021 Compliance Updates

Effective State Changes

COLORADO

Senate Bill 076 imposes a per-transaction fee up to $3, set by the Department of Revenue, on third-party providers to issue titles, registrations, and liens. Effective July 7, 2021.

CONNECTICUT

Senate Bill 716 provides additional protections for student loan borrowers and cosigners of private education loans. The bill also presents a new cause of action which can be brought against student loan servicers who engage in abusive acts or practices. Effective July 1, 2021.

Governor Ned Lamont signed Senate Bill 890 requiring federal student loan servicers to register with the Connecticut Department of Banking and comply with record requirements and consumer protection mandates applicable in the state. Effective July 1, 2021.

ILLINOIS

The Motor Vehicle Franchise Act has been amended by House Bill 3940. The new law requires licensed dealers to sell all motor vehicles instead of stating unlicensed dealers should be prevented from these sales. Additionally, this bill alters the manner in which dealers are reimbursed by manufacturers among other changes. Effective January 1, 2022.

Senate Bill 58 restores the full sales tax trade-in credit on vehicle trade-ins. Two years ago, lawmakers capped the sales tax trade-in credit at $10,000 for some passenger vehicles and SUVs. Restoring the full credit will give all motor vehicle customers a tax credit equal to the full value of their vehicles. Effective January 1, 2022.

The Debt Settlement Consumer Protection Act now includes student loan borrowers following the passage of Senate Bill 669. Among other requirements, the bill provides for specified disclosures in advertising and in contracts before signing. Effective Immediately.

MAINE

Governor Janet Mills signed Legislative Document 522 granting to Maine consumer’s the right to void a loan that is fraudulently procured under Maine finance law. The role of this new law is to crackdown on predatory lending in Connecticut. Effective 90 days after adjournment.

Legislative Document 1645 is an act that creates a registry of student loan lenders and implements other protections for private student loan borrowers. Effective 90 days after adjournment.

OREGON

Oregon declared a student loan emergency and enacted Senate Bill 485 in response. The law requires certain student loan servicers to obtain or renew license in Oregon. In addition, the bill details application and renewal procedures, required fees and creates certain exemptions. Finally, the new law allows for civil penalties against an unlicensed servicer and permits the Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services to participate in multistate examinations. Effective July 1, 2022.

VIRGINIA

On August 10, 2021, the Order Adopting Adjusted Prima Facie Rates for the Triennium Commencing January 1, 2022, Case No. INS-2021-00023 was announced. The Virginia State Corporation Commission’s has enacted new rates for a 3-year period The new rates will be:

Credit Life Rates

Single Life Rate                      $0.6672/$1000/month

Discounted at 3.63% for interest and mortality

Joint Life Rate                        $1.1008/$1000/month

165% of single life rate

Single life rate per $100 @ 12 months         $0.4259

Joint life rate per $100 @ 12 months           $0.7027

Single Level Life per $100 @ 12 months     $0.7792

Joint Level Life per $100 @ 12 months       $1.2856

*Level life rates are derived from the rates per $1000 per month and discounted at 5.5% for interest and mortality.

Credit A&H Rates

14 Day Retro                             $1.56/$100 @ 12 months

30 Day Retro                            $1.12/$100 @ 12 months

14 Day Elim                               $1.25/$100 @ 12 months

30 Day Elim                              $ 0.78/$100 @ 12 months

This most recent change is a decrease in prima A&H facie rates.

Effective January 1, 2022.

LAUNCHER.SOLUTIONS Expands Compliant Lending Calculation Expertise With CarletonCalcs®

Jacksonville, FL, August 31, 2021: Jacksonville-based technology provider specializing in loan originations, LAUNCHER.SOLUTIONS (“Launcher”), announces the integration of their appTRAKERSM Loan Origination System with CarletonCalcs® from Carleton, Inc. CarletonCalcs® is a suite of compliant loan calculation components that provides assurances to Launcher Solutions’ clients that their loan products are calculated accurately and in compliance with state and federal consumer lending laws.

Carleton, Inc., the U.S. leader in compliant lending calculation software, supports Launcher’s ability to generate contract-ready disclosures and compute the full array of finance options for both direct and indirect finance operations. Launcher’s appTRAKERSM LOS supports all asset-type financing, ranging from mattresses to automobiles, as well as uncollateralized loans. The CarletonCalcs® Loan Origination, Compliance, and Amortization components help maximize workflow efficiency within Launcher’s products.

Launcher uses its extensive lending industry expertise to arrive with the best technology solution for their clients’ individual lending needs. The CarletonCalcs® Suite of compliant consumer lending APIs is a great example of an integrated solution which gives clients of LAUNCHER.SOLUTIONS the knowledge that their quotes, contracts, and underwriting are all accurate and compliant.

It is an increasingly challenging task to ensure that payments, fees, and ancillary products are all precisely computed and in alignment with state and federal regulations, the lender’s contract language, and the lender’s loan servicing system. The CarletonCalcs® solution combines cutting-edge, cloud-based APIs with critical expert support services to ensure that Launcher’s clients have the tools they need to maintain compliance requirements with their individual underwriting rules and frequently changing state and federal laws.

“After a longstanding relationship with Carleton, it was only natural to rely on their expertise as we continue to expand our relationships with credit unions, banks, finance companies and other direct lending operations,” said Nikh Nath, President of Launcher. “They have a history of excellence with their calculation engine and loan origination compliance expertise and their experience is immediately apparent when working through their seamless integration process. In the lending space, a customer relies on the credibility of the loan calculations and Carleton provides that validity.” Nikh continued on to say, “Integrating with our partners shouldn’t be difficult. We are able to quickly and easily adapt the Carleton integration to the customer’s use case, ensuring that compliant loan and payment disclosure data is returned wherever they need it in their workflow.”

Launcher’s core methodology is to provide access to technology tools that align their platform to each lender, rather than the other way around. Matt Ruszkowski, President and COO of Carleton said, “Launcher provides their clients the solutions needed to improve their efficiencies throughout the lending lifecycle as well as the flexibility to adapt quickly. It’s an approach that most digital platforms are striving for these days, and we believe their product capabilities put them ahead of the curve.”

 

About LAUNCHER.SOLUTIONS:

LAUNCHER.SOLUTIONS is a technology products and services company built on the foundation of care, understanding, innovation, and speed. It specializes in loan origination for subprime/nearprime automotive lending institutions, regional banks, and credit unions. Its product offerings include appTRAKERSM LOS for indirect automotive lending as well as consumer direct lending and leasing, myDEALER.CARE dealer relationship management system, and myACCOUNT.CARE customer self-service and communication solution. LAUNCHER.SOLUTIONS has service offerings aimed at helping its clients with projects related to data analytics, data integration, telephony, and custom web development. Learn more at www.launcher.solutions or call 877.5LNCHER. Follow LAUNCHER.SOLUTIONS on LinkedIn.

 

About Carleton, Inc.:

Carleton is the country’s leading provider of financial calculation software, loan origination compliance support, and document generation software. Based in South Bend, Indiana, Carleton possesses over 50 years of leadership in this rapidly changing regulatory industry. Carleton guarantees accuracy in all their calculations and disclosures, enabling their partners to fulfill compliance requirements today and well into the future. To learn more about Carleton lending solutions, contact our sales team at sales@carletoninc.com or 574-243-6040 option #3.

Jeff Buysse Joins CCIA’s Podcast to Discuss Complexities of Consumer Credit Calculations

Jeff Buysse, VP of Compliance Services, recently joined the Consumer Credit Insurance Association’s periodic podcast series to discuss the evolution of the consumer credit industry and how regulatory compliance and the creation of the CFPB have shifted the way lending operations must operate.

The discussion details many intricacies that compliance professionals may never consider, how Carleton collaborates with clients, and the services Carleton provides to help their clients ensure their calculations are accurate, compliant, and in alignment with their specific consumer credit market.

Listen to the full podcast here 

June 2021 Compliance Updates

Effective State Changes

CONNECTICUT

Among other provisions, Substitute House Bill 6100 modernizes and updates the motor vehicle Lemon Law, lays out procedures for filing a claim, and provides the Department of Consumer Protection increased enforcement mechanisms. Effective October 1, 2021.

HAWAII

House Bill 1192 creates a new small dollar installment loan scheme for loans up to $1,500. These loans must be precomputed. The maximum allowed interest rate is 36% with a maximum total rate for all interest and fees of 50% of the principal amount. A monthly maintenance fee is allowed: $25 on original principal amount up $299.99, $30 on an original principal amount of at least $300, up to $699.99, or $35 on an original principal amount of at least $700 or greater. Bill effective July 1, 2021; licensing requirements effective January 1, 2022.

LOUISIANA

House Bill 147 authorizes public license tag agents to charge a $23 convenience fee for their services. Previously that convenience fee was $18. Effective August 1, 2021.

Senate Bill 67 raises the Documentary Service Fee for the sale of a motor vehicle from $200 to $425. Effective August 1, 2021.

MAINE

Legislative Document 1141 amends the Service Contracts Act to include the replacement of motor vehicle keys or key fobs among other provisions. Effective 90 days after sine die adjournment.

MARYLAND

Signed on May 30, 2021, House Bill 44 creates the Clean Cars Act of 2021. Among other provisions, the bill extends the vehicle excise tax credit for the purchase of certain electric vehicles. Effective July 1, 2021.

NEBRASKA

Legislative Bill 649 establishes the Nebraska Financial Innovation Act to create digital asset depository institutions as a new financial institution to be supervised by the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance. Effective August 27, 2021.

NEVADA

Assembly Bill 281 requires motor vehicle dealers to share certain records for short-term lessors be with the Department of Taxation, the Department of Motor Vehicles and certain local government employees upon request. Effective October 1, 2021.

Assembly Bill 298 affects motor vehicle leases in the state of Nevada. Among other updates to the law, the bill establishes the conditions under which a default by a lessee may be enforced, sets certain requirements for a lease, and requires certain language in lease contracts. Effective October 1, 2021.

SOUTH CAROLINA

House Bill 3505 applies the infrastructure maintenance fee to vehicle leasees at the time of registration at the Department of Motor Vehicles. Effective May 17, 2021.

TEXAS

House Bill 1698 allows for a county to charge a fee during vehicle registration in order to raise funds for a transportation project. Effective 90 days after sine die adjournment.

House Bill 2152 allows for online vehicle registration renewal. Effective September 1, 2021.

Reminders

OKLAHOMA

The Department of Consumer Credit published the changes in dollar brackets for Retail Installment Sales and Consumer Loans. Effective July 1, 2021.

TENNESSEE

Tennessee House Bill 421 was signed into law on April 7, 2021. This new law increases fees and adds new fees an industrial loan entity may charge. Effective July 1, 2021.

TEXAS

The Texas Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner published dollar amount brackets and ceilings subject to adjustment in the Texas Financial Code for Retail Installment Sales and Consumer Loans. Effective July 1, 2021.

WYOMING

Signed into law on February 9, 2021, HB 8 consolidates consumer credit provisions for loans. Effective July 1, 2021.

May 2021 Compliance Updates

Effective State Changes

ARIZONA

On May 10, 2021, Senate Bill 1463 was signed into law which revises Arizona statutes regarding investigations into financial institutions and enterprises by the Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions. Among mostly technical changes to the Act, the statute establishes new fees for Premium Finance Companies and Advance Fee Loan Brokers. Effective retroactively to June 30, 2020.

ARKANSAS

House Bill 1912 provides a reduced sales and use tax rate for certain used motor vehicles, trailers, and semitrailers. Effective January 1, 2022.

House Bill 1893 exempts certain electric and hybrid vehicles from registration fees. Effective retroactively to October 1, 2019.

GEORGIA

House Bill 63 was signed into law by Governor Brian Kemp on May 4, 2021. This new law relates to an alternative ad valorem tax on motor vehicles and changes the definition of fair market value to exclude certain interest and financing charges for vehicle leases. Effective January 1, 2022.

House Bill 111 clarifies, updates, and removes language associated with credit unions and banks operating in the State of Georgia. The law also establishes the right of any licensee or borrower under the Georgia Installment Loan Act to contract for a hardship or convenience deferment of an installment loan. A licensee may charge a fee for this deferment. Effective July 1, 2021.

Signed into law on May 10, 2021, House Bill 210 excludes certain motor vehicles from having to disclose the odometer reading on the certificate of title. Vehicles over 16,000 lbs., those vehicles manufactured in 2010 or before which were transferred over 10 years counting from January 1 of the model year, and vehicles manufactured in 2011 or after and were transferred over 20 years counting from January 1 of the model year, are all exempt from the odometer provisions. Effective July 1, 2021.

House Bill 241 defines new coverage areas for property insurance as it relates to motor vehicles. In addition, the new law establishes when certain contracts, agreements, or instruments may be canceled, and the refund method used when the contract is effectively ended. Effective July 1, 2021.

ILLINOIS

On May 14, 2021, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (“IDFPR”) released new regulations for commentary on SB 1792 (The Predatory Loan Prevention Act or “PLPA”). These regulations will help implement the changes under the PLPA which limits almost all consumer lending transactions to a rate cap of 36% calculated like the MAPR under the Military Lending Act. Proposed regulations primarily address disclosure notices and reporting requirements, but also removes all references to Small Consumer Loans (including the related document preparation fee), redefines loan terms for Payday Loans, clarifies what are considered “bona fide” fees for computing the IL APR, and the effect these fees would have on the finance charge. Comments accepted until June 28, 2021.

INDIANA

House Bill 1168 was signed into law on April 26, 2021. The Act creates the Electric Vehicle Product Commission. The commission is to produce an annual report to the Indiana economic development corporation on electric vehicles, affiliated products and services, and opportunities for the state to promote growth in this industry. Effective July 1, 2021.

IOWA

On May 10, 2021, Senate File 366 was signed into law by Governor Kim Reynolds. Among other provisions the Act excludes certain vehicles from vehicle registration and fees. Effective immediately.

OKLAHOMA

Governor Kevin Stitt signed House Bill 1149 into law on May 10, 2021. The new law excludes certain individuals from needing to register with the state in order to sell used vehicles among other provisions. Effective November 1, 2021.

Oklahoma has enacted House Bill 2234 which provides an income tax credit in the amount of the new electric vehicle charging taxes. Starting after December 31, 2023, the credit is available in the amount taxes paid by an individual or other entity. Effective November 1, 2021.

Senate Bill 998 was signed into law on May 7, 2021. The law gives powers to the Oklahoma Tax Commission to create a program for filing motor vehicle certificates of title electronically. The program will also electronically allow a lienholder to perfect, assign, and release a lien on a motor vehicle. Effective November 1, 2021.

SOUTH CAROLINA

On May 6, 2021 Governor Henry McMaster signed into law Senate Bill 510. This new Act regulates motor vehicle manufacturers, distributors, and dealers. In addition, the law has provisions relating to Warranty Agreements and dealer compensation. Effective August 4, 2021.

TEXAS

House Bill 735 allows for Service Contracts to be available for purchase on leased vehicles. Effective September 1, 2021.