Concerning unauthorized Uniform Commercial Code filings.

HB 2640 prohibits unauthorized filings of financing statements under Washington’s Uniform Commercial Code with the intent to harass or defraud debtors. It creates a process where debtors can submit a notarized affidavit to the filing office to trigger a 30-day termination of wrongful filings, without fees for the debtor. Violators face penalties: a gross misdemeanor for first offenses and a class C felony for repeat violations. The bill also establishes procedures for creditors to challenge wrongful terminations through court action within six months. It directly affects debtors targeted by improper filings and creditors who may file incorrectly.