A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection relating to the withdrawal of the rule relating to "Consumer Financial Protection Circular 2022-05: Debt Collection and Consumer Reporting Practices Involving Invalid Nursing Home Debts".

Legislative Summary: S.J.Res. 159

Overview

S.J.Res. 159 is a joint resolution introduced in the Senate to overturn a specific regulatory action taken by the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection (CFPB). The resolution utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA), which allows Congress to disapprove of and invalidate rules submitted by federal agencies.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of this resolution is to prevent the CFPB from withdrawing Consumer Financial Protection Circular 2022-05.

Circular 2022-05 focuses on "Debt Collection and Consumer Reporting Practices Involving Invalid Nursing Home Debts." By disapproving of the CFPB's decision to withdraw this circular, Congress intends to keep the protections and guidelines outlined in the original circular in effect.

Key Provisions

• Disapproval of Rule Withdrawal: The resolution formally expresses congressional disapproval of the CFPB's rule (published May 12, 2025) that sought to rescind the guidelines established in Circular 2022-05.
• Nullification: If passed, the resolution dictates that the rule to withdraw the circular "shall have no force or effect." This effectively reinstates the regulatory standing of the original 2022 guidance.

Who is Affected?

• Consumers/Patients: Individuals who have resided in nursing homes and may be facing debt collection efforts for "invalid" debts (such as debts that were paid by Medicaid or other government programs).
• Debt Collectors: Agencies and entities that purchase or collect nursing home debts will be required to adhere to the guidance in Circular 2022-05, which likely restricts the collection of debts that are legally invalid.
• Nursing Home Facilities: Administrators and billing departments whose practices regarding debt referral and reporting are governed by CFPB guidelines.

Summary of Impact

If this resolution is enacted, it ensures that the CFPB continues to treat the collection of invalid nursing home debts as an unfair or deceptive practice. It prevents the CFPB from removing a safeguard that protects elderly and disabled individuals from predatory debt collection practices related to healthcare costs.

Procedural Status

• Introduced: April 13, 2026
• Current Status: The resolution has been read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.