The House Consumer Protection & Business Committee convened on February 14, 2025, to discuss a range of legislative proposals, focusing on consumer protection and business regulations. The meeting featured several key bills, including House Bill 1505, which aims to amend the insurance code, and House Bill 1530, which addresses transaction fees for credit card payments.

House Bill 1505, presented by staff member Peter Clodfelter, proposes revisions to the insurance code, including the restoration of a requirement for health carriers to provide coverage for newborns for at least three weeks after birth. This amendment, introduced by Representative Santos, was adopted to ensure that newborns receive necessary medical coverage, reflecting concerns about potential gaps in insurance for new families.

House Bill 1530, discussed by Megan Mulvihill, allows regulated businesses to charge transaction fees for credit card payments. The committee reviewed several amendments, including one that limits the application of transaction fees to tow truck operators only. This amendment aims to support small businesses by addressing the financial burden of credit card processing fees, which can significantly impact their profitability.

Another significant proposal, House Bill 1063, seeks to establish regulations for earned wage access services. This bill aims to provide consumers with access to their earned wages while implementing consumer protections against predatory practices. The committee discussed various amendments to enhance consumer safeguards, including prohibiting subscription fees and default tipping practices.

The committee also reviewed House Bill 1080, which mandates that all fees charged by lodging accommodations be disclosed in the advertised price. This bill aims to improve transparency for consumers, ensuring they are aware of the total costs before making reservations.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the committee's commitment to enhancing consumer protections and supporting small businesses through legislative measures. The discussions underscored the importance of balancing business interests with the need for consumer safeguards in an evolving economic landscape. The committee plans to continue refining these bills in future sessions, with a focus on addressing concerns raised by various stakeholders.