Attorneys general from 10 U.S. states have filed a lawsuit aimed at overturning a recently issued rule by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). These new rules allow banking institutions regulated by the OCC to circumvent state laws, thereby exempting them from paying interest on mortgage escrow accounts. The lawsuit points out that approximately 80% of mortgage holders have escrow accounts used to pay property taxes and insurance premiums, and these accounts can hold substantial balances throughout the year. Currently, 14 U.S. states and territories have laws requiring banks to pay interest on escrow accounts, with specific rates varying by state. The plaintiffs argue that the OCC overstepped its authority in issuing these rules and cite legal precedents to support their position.