Maryland Creates State Law Violation of Federal Mortgage Assistance Relief Provisions

CFPB Mortgage Modification

On May 16, Maryland enacted HB 291, which makes it a violation of state law for a mortgage assistance relief service provider to violate federal mortgage relief regulations administered by the CFPB under Regulation O. The bill grants enforcement authority to the Commissioner of Financial Regulation and the Attorney General, and creates a private right of action for damages. The bill states that a violation of its provisions is an unfair or deceptive trade practice under the Maryland Consumer Protection Act and is subject to that Act’s civil and criminal penalty provisions. The bill takes effect on July 1, 2013.