Millions of Americans currently use EWA, a technology-enabled financial tool that allows workers to access the wages they’ve already earned before their scheduled payday. This flexibility helps employees connect work and reward in real time, whether it’s picking up an extra shift, celebrating a loved one’s birthday when it happens or avoiding overdraft fees, late payment penalties, and high-interest payday loans. Without options like EWA, too many workers find their lives revolving around payday instead of what is best for their families and financial stability. 
 
As new financial products like EWA enter the marketplace, states across the country have taken steps to provide clear regulatory frameworks that both protect consumers and give businesses confidence to operate responsibly. Pennsylvania has the opportunity to do the same and be a leader in passing strong regulations to protect consumers and encourage innovation.
 
Under this framework, EWA services will continue to be offered without mandatory fees. A free option is available for every transaction, and there are never any late fees or interest charges.  Importantly, all EWA transactions are non-recourse, meaning there is no debt collection, no interest, and no negative credit impact if funds are not repaid.
 
Nobody likes waiting for payday. For many workers, the ability to access the wages they’ve earned can significantly improve their quality of life, and promote long-term financial stability. This legislation ensures that Pennsylvanians can continue using EWA services safely, with strong consumer protections and clear, responsible business standards.
 
We invite you to join us in co-sponsoring this bipartisan legislation to ensure Pennsylvania has safe, secure, and transparent access to their earned wages.