Consumer EditionJanuary/February 2008

 E D I T O R I A L

DISB Uses Special Week to Help You With Your Broader Financial Picture
The year 2008 has started quite ominously for some—threats of recession, escalating credit crunch and higher cost of living—so DISB will use National Consumer Protection Week to provide information as the first line of defense for managing money wisely and preventing fraud.
 

T H E   C O M M I S S I O N E R ' S   C O L U M N

DISB’s Future Remains Bright Looking Toward 2008
In keeping with the mayor’s goals for 2008, DISB will continue providing effective regulation, consumer education and consumer services to District residents to create the best financial-service regulatory agency. To achieve this, Commissioner Hampton has listed three objectives.
 

C O N S U M E R   C O R N E R

Consumer Corner
Annual National Consumer Protection Week Promotes Financial Literacy as a Sound Investment
DISB has joined other agencies around the country in promoting the 10th annual National Consumer Protection Week, March 2-8, 2008.
 

T H E   C O N S U M E R S'   H O W   T O   G U I D E

Perform a preventative health insurance check-up
Medical debt can quickly become overwhelming. For the new year, the best plan of action is to take some preventative measures before injury or illness strikes. See how.
 

S P E C I A L   F E A T U R E

Consumer Protection for Vehicle Buyers
Customers buying used cars may not be aware that the vehicles had extensive damage or were missing parts when they were sold at auctions. DISB has access to data that can verify prior vehicle theft. Find out more.

 


N E W S   Y O U   C A N   U S E

DISB Monitors Payday Lenders
Since the Council passed legislation subjecting payday lending to the District’s 24 percent interest cap, DISB has been monitoring payday lenders’ compliance with the new law.

DISB’s Presentation on Medicare
Insurance staff addressed seniors on Medicare-sponsored plans at a PSA meeting mid-January.

DISB’s Presentation for Homebuyers
DISB delivered a presentation on homeowners’ insurance and other issues at the Manna Homebuyers meeting last November.

Most Americans Stymied at Saving
About 52 percent of Americans say they cannot afford to save or that they are saving inadequately, according to a survey of 2,000 adults.

DISB in the Community
Commissioner Thomas E. Hampton and Associate Commissioner for Banking Howard Amer meet with Asian and Pacific Islander merchants early January.

Upcoming Events
DISB continues to focus on consumer empowerment through information. Here is a brief listing of presentations in the coming months. Check the agency calendar for updates.

UK Delegation visits DISB
A small delegation from a graduate program in London visits DISB for a briefing on insurance regulation in the United States.

NASAA Responds to US Supreme Court Decision
The North American Securities Administrators Association recently expressed disappointment over the US Supreme Court’s ruling that closed an important avenue for investors to seek redress in the courts.

DISB’s Budget Hearings
Councilmember Mary Cheh will hold oversight hearings for DISB.

Scams Often Follow Recent Economic Headlines, DISB Cautions
DISB recently reminded investors not to allow recent negative economic news and stock market volatility to lead them into high-risk speculative investments, which may be fraudulent schemes.
 


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