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A bill to amend the Federal Reserve Act to prohibit certain financial service providers who deny fair access to financial services from using taxpayer funded discount window lending programs, and for other purposes.
2/20/2025, 11:56 AM
Summary of Bill S 401
The main purpose of this bill is to promote fairness and equality in the financial services industry by prohibiting institutions that engage in discriminatory practices from receiving support from taxpayer-funded programs. By doing so, the bill aims to protect consumers from being unfairly denied access to financial services based on factors such as race, gender, or socioeconomic status.
Overall, the Fair Access to Financial Services Act is a step towards ensuring that all individuals have equal opportunities to access financial services and are not discriminated against by financial institutions. It highlights the importance of accountability and transparency in the industry, and aims to create a more inclusive and fair financial system for all Americans.
Congressional Summary of S 401
Fair Access to Banking Act
This bill places restrictions on certain banks, credit unions, and payment card networks if they refuse to do business with a person who complies with the law. Restrictions include prohibiting the use of electronic funds transfer systems and lending programs, termination of an institution's depository insurance, and specified civil penalties.
Banks and other specified financial institutions are allowed to deny financial services to a person only if the denial is justified by a documented failure of that person to meet quantitative, impartial, risk-based standards established in advance by the institution. This justification may not be based upon reputational risks to the institution.
The bill establishes the right for a person to bring a civil action for a violation of this bill.
Current Status of Bill S 401
Bipartisan Support of Bill S 401
Total Number of Sponsors
3Democrat Sponsors
0Republican Sponsors
3Unaffiliated Sponsors
0Total Number of Cosponsors
82Democrat Cosponsors
0Republican Cosponsors
82Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 401
Primary Policy Focus
Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 401
Comments

Michelle Brewer
9 months ago
I don't like this bill. It's not fair to punish financial service providers for denying access to services. They should have the right to choose who they do business with. This bill could hurt small businesses like mine who rely on these services. #NotFair #AgainstIt





