NY Attorney General Leads 19-State Support for CFPB in Supreme Court

The United States Supreme Court held oral arguments on October 3rd in a case that could redefine consumer financial protection. In the case titled Consumer Financial Protection Bureau v. Community Financial Services Association of America Ltd., the future of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) hangs in the balance.

The Community Financial Services Association of America (CFSA) is urging the Supreme Court to uphold the Fifth Circuit’s decision. This decision threatens the funding of the CFPB, raising significant concerns in the financial regulatory sphere.

On the opposing side, 16 state attorneys general, led by New York State Attorney General Letitia James, are urging the Supreme Court to overturn the Fifth Circuit’s ruling. They argue that the CFPB is essential for consumer protection and maintaining fairness in the financial system.

Earlier this year, Attorney General James and her coalition submitted an amicus brief to emphasize the critical nature of this case.

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The CFPB, according to these state attorneys general, serves several vital functions for both states and consumers. It offers transparency and clarity in navigating the complex financial marketplace, provides educational resources, and offers a platform for consumers to report issues with financial entities. Additionally, it supports state-level financial industry regulation and provides federal oversight for matters beyond state control.

Collaboration between the CFPB and state attorneys general has yielded significant results, including action against predatory companies, the recovery of billions for defrauded consumers, and protection against scammers.

The coalition of 16 attorneys general issued a joint statement expressing their unwavering support for the CFPB:

“The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has been crucial for consumers and states combatting financial misconduct. As state attorneys general committed to consumer protection and robust regulatory frameworks, we strongly back the CFPB and its regulatory authority. State attorneys general are the people’s advocates, and the CFPB is a valuable partner in our efforts to protect consumers from predatory businesses and lenders.”

In addition to Attorney General James, the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia joined in this statement.

Source: AG NY Gov