Consumer Protection Topic Archive

In Details of Dodd Bill, Some Loopholes and Unanswered Questions

The fine print in the sweeping overhaul of the U.S. financial system proposed by Sen. Christopher Dodd reveals loopholes, ambiguities and unanswered questions about some key players – among them a new consumer protection bureau, credit-rating companies and payday lenders.

By Keith Epstein, Ben Protess and David Heath
16 March 2010

Profiting From Recession, Payday Lenders Spend Big to Fight Regulation

The influential $42 billion-a-year payday lending industry, thriving from a surge in emergency loans to people struggling through the recession, is pouring record sums into lobbying, campaign contributions, and public relations – and getting results.

By Keith Epstein2 March 2010

VIDEO: Barney Frank: Consumer Reforms at Risk in Senate

Financial reform legislation faces an uncertain future in the Senate where Republicans stand opposed to creating a new consumer protection agency. Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.), who ushered a financial overhaul through the House last month, explains how the agency was tempered in his bill and may not survive the Senate. President Obama has said creating the agency is a must. » Related Story: Dodd’s Departure Could Endanger Potential Consumer Agency

By Lagan Sebert and Ben Protess
7 January 2010