IN HB1182

Amends IC 24-5-0.5-4 to clarify that class action settlements involving unclaimed funds held by the attorney general can be retained beyond one year if the attorney general extends the deadline under the new consumer protection assistance fund statute.

Establishes a new Consumer Protection Assistance Fund administered by the attorney general to compensate qualifying individuals who file claims for unpaid court-ordered restitution in cases involving violations of credit services, mortgage rescue fraud, home loan practices, and telephone solicitation statutes.

Limits individual payments from the fund to a maximum of $3,000 per qualifying individual, though recipients may pursue additional recovery through other legal remedies for unpaid restitution amounts exceeding the fund payment.

Requires qualifying individuals to file claims with the attorney general within 180 days of the court order (extendable for good cause, but not beyond two years), and requires the individual to have assisted or cooperated with the attorney general's investigation or prosecution.

Declares an emergency for the act, making it effective upon passage.