New framework passed by the legislature strengthens consumer protections while ensuring continued access to EWA services

AFC applauds Rep. Cory Maloy and Sen. Chris Wilson for their leadership in advancing responsible, pragmatic earned wage access regulation in Utah

Washington, D.C. (March 10, 2025) – The American Fintech Council (AFC), the premier industry association representing responsible fintech companies, innovative banks, and the largest number of responsible Earned Wage Access (EWA) providers, today sent a coalition letter to Utah Governor Spencer Cox urging him to sign House Bill 279, the Earned Wage Access Services Act. The legislation, which passed both houses with bipartisan support and strong leadership from Rep. Cory Maloy and Sen. Chris Wilson, would create a clear and pragmatic regulatory framework for EWA providers in Utah. The letter, signed by AFC and a broad range of providers, underscores a shared commitment to ensuring EWA services in Utah remain responsible, accessible, and consumer-friendly.

EWA allows workers to access wages they have already earned before their scheduled pay period, providing greater flexibility and financial stability. The bill establishes critical consumer protections, including a no-cost option, transparent fee disclosures, and the ability for users to cancel the service at any time without incurring penalties. HB 279 also requires EWA providers to register with the Utah Department of Commerce’s Division of Consumer Protection, ensuring robust oversight and keeping bad actors out of the state.

“This bill provides a strong foundation for the responsible growth of EWA in Utah,” said Ashley Urisman, Director of State Government Affairs at AFC. “By setting clear rules and oversight mechanisms, Utah lawmakers have demonstrated a deep understanding of financial technology and how it can benefit workers across the state. The state is once again proving itself to be a hub for fintech leadership, prioritizing consumer protection while ensuring workers continue to have access to financial tools that help them manage their cash flow effectively.  AFC applauds the Utah Legislature for their leadership on this issue and encourages Governor Cox to sign HB 279 into law.”

AFC and the coalition of signatories emphasized their shared commitment to ensuring that EWA remains a safe and accessible financial tool. Responsible EWA providers support HB 279 as a framework that creates clear oversight while allowing Utah workers to continue to benefit from services that help them manage their financial needs.

“The Utah legislature, with leadership from bill sponsors Representative Cory Maloy and Senator Chris Wilson, have put forward an exemplary and thoughtful measure that protects consumers and supports the growth of businesses in the Earned Wage Access industry, codifying regulations for a service that thousands of Utahns depend on to meet their financial needs,” said Ryan Naples, Vice President of Public Policy at DailyPay. “We particularly applaud the unanimous, bipartisan passage of this bill, and encourage Governor Cox to sign it swiftly.”

A standards-based organization, AFC is the premier trade association representing the largest financial technology (Fintech) companies and innovative banks offering embedded finance solutions. AFC’s mission is to promote a transparent, inclusive, and customer-centric financial system by supporting responsible innovation in financial services and encouraging sound public policy. AFC members foster competition in consumer finance and pioneer products to better serve underserved consumer segments and geographies.

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