OH HB596

Prohibits debt collectors from collecting debts owed by Ohio consumers and small businesses during the covered period (from bill effective date through 120 days after the end of Executive Order 2020-01D issued March 9, 2020), with exceptions for federally related mortgage loans.

Bans specific collection practices during covered period including capitalizing interest, charging penalty fees, suing for nonpayment, repossession, foreclosure, eviction, utility disconnection, wage garnishment, bank levies, and asset seizure.

Requires debt collectors after the covered period expires to not add prohibited interest or fees, extend payment periods by one period per missed payment, and allow reasonable repayment terms for debts without defined payment schedules.

Limits debt collector communications to written only during covered period without prior consumer consent or court permission, with disclosures stating communications are informational and not collection attempts in 14-point bold type.

Establishes civil liability of up to $10,000 for violations and tolls all applicable time limitations and statutes of limitations on debts during the covered period; declares bill an emergency measure effective immediately.