The California Assembly recently passed legislation creating significant new consumer protections against unfair debt collection practices. Specifically, the Fair Debt Buyers Practices Act requires debt buyers to substantiate the validity of a debt before they attempt to collect and requires that they direct their collection efforts at the proper debtor for the right amount. One hopes that both the Oregon and Washington legislatures will follow suit and enact similar protections for consumers in the Pacific Northwest. Doesn’t seem like much to ask.