Tag:government
CFPB Faces Uncertain Future: What it Means for Consumers
The US Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is a government agency that ensures consumers are “treated fairly by banks, lenders, and other financial institutions.” Along with enforcing consumer protection laws, the CFPB oversees products, like credit cards and mortgages, and investigates complaints regarding dishonest or illegal activity to hold companies accountable. The CFPB has faced controversy about whether or not the agency has too much power. However, the CFPB is currently under increased scrutiny by the Trump administration, which could result in issues with consumer financial protections.
The Snyder Decision: What is to Come Regarding Federal and State Gratuities Regulations?
The Supreme Court of the United States released its 6-3 opinion on Snyder v. United States on June 26, 2024. This decision overturned the conviction of Indiana mayor, James Snyder, who was convicted of accepting an illegal gratuity in violation of Title 18, §666(a)(1)(B) of the United States Code. The Supreme Court held that §666 does not criminalize gratuities for several reasons: the statute’s text, statutory history, statutory structure, statutory punishments, federalism, and fair notice. The scope of §666 is severely narrowed, bringing the question: What is the potential impact of Snyder on other federal and state bribery laws as they apply to state and local officials?
Illinois Democrats File Legal Complaint Against the Darren Bailey Campaign
On the Friday before the 2022 midterm elections, the Illinois Democratic Party filed a legal complaint against the Darren Bailey campaign for governor. The complaint says that the campaign illegally coordinated with an independent political action committee (known as a super PAC). The super PAC, called the “People Who Play By The Rules PAC,” is led by Republican political operative, talk show host, and one-time failed gubernatorial candidate, Dan Proft. The People Who Play By The Rules PAC is funded almost entirely by billionaire businessman and Republican mega-donor, Richard Uihlein. The Illinois Democrats’ legal complaint was not filed not in court, but in front of the Illinois State Board of Elections – the state government body tasked with enforcing Illinois’ election laws. The complaint has not yet been made public.