Chapter 3 (Collection) of the Economic Plan Bill (Legislative Amendments to Implement Economic Policy for the 2025 Budget Year), 5785-2024

The proposed change concerns the manner in which the Center for Collection of Fines and the Execution Office may serve notices regarding debts. Currently, the law requires strict service, which is a necessary condition for any collection or restriction procedure against a debtor. The goal is to ensure that the debtor receives a clear notice regarding the debt and the potential consequences, thereby protecting their rights. The proposal seeks to allow "softened" digital service via the government personal area. It is argued that this change, while potentially saving costs for the authorities, may create barriers for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, new immigrants, people with disabilities, and single mothers. These populations already face difficulties such as language barriers, lack of means for legal representation, and misunderstanding of legal procedures. Adding technological literacy as an additional barrier could significantly harm them. The concern is that the new mechanism will not ensure that the person actually understands the content of the notice and the consequences of confirming its receipt. Therefore, it is proposed that to the extent digital service is permitted, a mechanism must be ensured to verify informed and explicit consent, rather than relying on a simple "check mark," which may be erroneous or misunderstood, especially by vulnerable populations. The proposed change is not considered merely technical, but a substantive change that may undermine basic protections for debtors.

Source: חומר רקע