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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Dwight Evans |
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EVANS CREDIT COUNSELING BILL HEADED TO GOVERNOR FOR SIGNATURE
HARRISBURG (Oct. 8) – Consumers who seek financial management services because they are overwhelmed by the mortgage crisis, credit card crunch and weakening economy have a new reason to be confident they are working with reputable companies or organizations because of legislation passed by the state legislature.
The Credit Counseling Bill, a free-standing piece of legislation sponsored by Rep. Dwight Evans, D-Phila., chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, ensures debt management services are provided by certified counselors; that the services are clearly defined; that consumers receive financial counseling and that fees are capped. House Bill 2294, which now goes to the Governor for his signature, reflects the work of Evans, the State Senate, and the state’s banking department and representatives of organizations and companies that offer credit counseling services.
"This legislation grows out of my efforts to create state policies that help people become financially literate," Evans said. "This is a common-sense measure that is good for consumers, especially in light of current economic conditions. More and more people are in debt. More and more people need help. But we can’t let people in a vulnerable financial situation be taken advantage of by companies or organizations who are supposed to help them strengthen their financial position."
If the legislation is signed by Gov. Edward G. Rendell, Pennsylvania would join 38 states that regulate credit counseling companies and organizations.
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CONTACT: Johnna A. Pro Phone: 717-783-8024 Cell: 717-418-3749 Email: jpro@pahouse.net
Barbara Fellencer Phone: 717-772-8033 Email: bfellenc@pahouse.net
For more information about Rep. Dwight Evans’ legislative initiatives, visit the website www.pahouse.net/evans. For more information about the House Appropriations Committee, visit the website www.hacd.net |