Bill Giving Pay Day Loan Borrowers Help Passes Senate

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — A plan to give people who use payday loans more leeway in settling their debt passed the Idaho Senate. The bill, which passed 21-13 Monday, would let borrowers set up a payment plan to return the money if they get behind. It also blocks lenders from piling fees and interest onto the remaining balance if borrowers opt for the payment plan. The bill's sponsor, Twin Falls Republican Sen. Lee Heider, says it can provide an out for someone "caught in a lending cycle." But Nampa Republican Sen. Todd Lakey said he didn't think the government should be tasked with protecting people from their own decisions. Other opponents argued it could unfairly target small lenders with less ability to stretch their loans. The bill now heads to the House.