If most people made rational decisions to maximize their self-interest, as predicted by traditional economists, then everyone would have an emergency fund, accumulate adequate retirement savings, avoid payday loans, and be financially secure. The reality, as demonstrated by the growing research in behavioral economics, is that we often make emotional, short-sighted, and self-defeating financial decisions.

Think back to the last contract you signed. Did you read it all the way through? Even if you did, did you fully understand all of it? If not, you’re not alone. Recent research shows that consumers often rely on conversations with salespeople more than the content of a contract, a process which we believe has encouraged the development of deceptive-by-design financial products accompanied by incomprehensible fine print.

The Consumer Financial Protection Agency (H.R. 3126), the new financial watchdog proposed by the Obama administration and currently being debated in Congress, would have the authority to protect small businesses from risky, unregulated financial products. 

Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan and 23 other attorneys general sent a joint letter in support of H.R. 3126, which would create a new federal Consumer Financial Protection Agency, to Congressional leaders on the House and Senate banking committees on August 18.

Under new regulations implementing certain provisions of the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009 that take effect August 20, credit card lenders must mail or deliver periodic statements at least 21 days before the payment is due and must give 45-days notice of increases in the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) or other significant changes in terms, including a notice of the right to cancel the account.