MA H1275

Creates new Chapter 93M, the "Debt Collection Fairness Act," establishing protections for consumers against aggressive debt collection practices in Massachusetts, effective January 1, 2026.

Limits wage garnishment to 10% of gross weekly wages, exempting the greater of 90% of gross wages or 65 times the minimum hourly wage; allows debtors to claim additional exemptions for financial hardship.

Establishes a 5-year statute of limitations for consumer debt collection lawsuits and a 10-year limit on collecting judgments, with one 10-year renewal permitted; payments on debt do not revive or extend the limitations period.

Reduces post-judgment interest rates from 12% to 3% annually for judgments entered on or after January 1, 2026, and caps attorney's fees at 15% of the debt amount.

Prohibits imprisonment for failure to pay consumer debt or comply with payment orders; requires 30-day written notice before supplementary proceedings and allows debtors to avoid hearings by filing a financial affidavit showing all income/assets are exempt.