Created: 3/10/2005 6:12:12 PM 
By Tiani Jones First Coast News
BRUNSWICK, GA -- New legislation in Washington, if passed, could make filing for bankruptcy harder. Republicans are pushing for reform of current bankruptcy laws, but Democrats in Congress say the legislation is a handout to the credit card companies.
Financial experts say credit card debt and medical debt are the top reasons people file for bankruptcy. However, most credit counselors believe the majority of bankruptcy cases can be avoided.
Credit counselor Millicent Harwell says "I think if people really sat down and looked at their full financial portfolio, and looked at all the solutions and looked at the repercussions and bankruptcy, most would decide not to do it."
If Congress passes the bankruptcy legislation those wishing to file will have to get credit counseling. Something Harwell says should be done anyway.
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