1、Congressional Research Service The Library of CongressCRS Report for CongressReceived through the CRS WebOrder Code RS20128Updated August 9, 1999Consumer Provisions in the Bankruptcy ReformAct of 1999: H.R. 833 and S. 625Robin JewelerLegislative AttorneyAmerican Law DivisionSummaryBankruptcy reform
2、bills comparable to legislation considered in the 105 Congressthwere reintroduced early in the 106 Congress. H.R. 833, the “Bankruptcy Reform Actthof 1999” was introduced on Feb. 24, 1999. The Senate version, S. 625, was introducedon March 16, 1999. Both bills would effect wide-ranging amendments to
3、 the U.S.Bankruptcy Code. With respect to consumer bankruptcy, H.R. 833 would impose ameans test to determine debtor eligibility to liquidate under chapter 7. Debtors who donot qualify would be required to reorganize under chapter 13, or refrain from filing. S. 625 is not identical to H.R. 833. Sena
4、te sponsors point to a more liberal meanstest for chapter 7 filers and additional provisions intended to protect consumers. The Senate Judiciary committee reported S. 625 favorably on April 27, 1999 by avote of 14-4. Many of the controversial issues that were not addressed in committee arelikely to