Supporters of a federal bankruptcy reform bill say the plan's tougher regulations would only apply to people who make more than the median income in their state - which, in Maryland, was $82,363 for a family of four in 2003.

"The bill keeps the courthouse door open, but also holds people accountable for their debts," said Laura Fisher, spokeswoman for the American Bankers Association. "It eliminates some abuse in the system."