April 20, 2020 3:15 a.m.
Oregon Governor Kate Brown has issued an Executive Order preventing creditors or debt collectors from garnishing federal CARES Act recovery rebate payments.
A release from the Governor’s office said the order corrects an oversight in the federal legislation, ensuring Oregonians can use the funds for their intended purpose: covering the cost of essential needs during the COVID-19 public health crisis.
Brown said “many Oregonians, through no fault of their own, are struggling to pay their bills, their rent, or even buy essentials like groceries and prescription drugs.” She said the recovery checks were meant to provide relief, “not reward debt collection agencies for preying on Oregonians who have lost their livelihoods due to the COVID-19 pandemic”.
The release said the order affords Oregonians receiving CARES Act rebates the same protection from garnishments, as the recipients of other government payments, such as Social Security, disability and veteran’s benefits. The protection does not extend to garnishments due to criminal actions requiring restitution or civil judgements based on criminal conviction. As provided by the CARES Act, past-due child support may still be deducted before rebates are deposited in bank accounts.