consumer

$20 Billion in Aid: CFPB Shuts Down Amid Legal Battles Over Consumer Protection Efforts

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), once hailed as the financial watchdog for American consumers, has been thrust into chaos following recent government shutdowns. As of January 30, 2025, the agency had secured approximately $20 billion in restitution and other reliefs for nearly 200 million consumers through its enforcement actions. However, recent administrative moves have curtailed the operations of the CFPB significantly, leaving many worried about the future of consumer protections. In January alone, the CFPB saw a significant spike in complaints, with nearly 500,000 consumers reaching out for help, surpassing the … Read more

Oregon’s Battle Over Outdoor Recreation Liability: Push for Legal Waivers Pits Industry Survival Against Consumer Safety

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SALEM, Ore. — A sense of urgency filled the air as members of the Oregon House Committee on Economic Development, Small Business, and Trade listened intently to harrowing stories of recreation-related tragedies across the state, ranging from deadly drownings on the Rogue River to severe skiing incidents on both Mount Hood and Mount Bachelor. Among the testimonies on February 19 were accounts of disastrous events including a horrific rodeo accident and disturbing cases of abuse. As stakeholders presented evidence, the focus also turned to the burgeoning financial pressures faced by outdoor recreational businesses. Proprietors from … Read more

CFPB Releases Comprehensive Guide Urging States to Strengthen Consumer Protection Laws Amid Federal Uncertainties

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In response to a shifting regulatory landscape, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has recently issued guidance recommending that states enhance their consumer protection laws. This comes amid anticipation of scalebacks in federal oversight under the current administration, including significant budget cuts and layoffs at the CFPB. The CFPB’s report traces a long history of cooperation between state and federal governments aimed at safeguarding consumers. It highlights lessons from past economic hardships, such as the savings and loan crisis of the 1980s and the 2007-2008 mortgage crisis, stressing the need for vigilant oversight. To this … Read more

Hiring Freeze Paused at Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Amid Pending Litigation

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Washington, D.C. – Plans for layoffs at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) have been temporarily suspended as a federal judge evaluates a lawsuit filed by the agency’s union. The halt is a significant moment for the bureau, which has faced scrutiny over proposed staffing cuts under the current administration. The National Treasury Employees Union, which represents the workforce at the CFPB, initiated legal action to contest the layoff of dozens of employees. This move was in response to what they argue is a breach of federal labor laws and their collective bargaining agreement. The … Read more