[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 127, 113th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8937--MAR. 1, 2013

Proclamation 8937 of March 1, 2013

National Consumer Protection Week, 2013
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Over 4 years ago, widespread abuses in America's financial system nearly
brought our economy to its knees. Millions saw their life savings erode,
businesses shuttered their doors, and families were devastated by job
loss and foreclosure. This crisis cast a harsh light on the breakdown in
oversight that led to an epidemic of irresponsibility, and it
highlighted the need for common-sense regulations to protect the vast
majority of Americans from the reckless actions of a few. During
National Consumer Protection Week, we remember those lessons, and we
recognize that our shared prosperity depends on empowering all Americans
to make sound decisions for themselves and their families.
My Administration is ramping up consumer protection throughout the
economy. Last year, we established a new unit to combat fraud and
investigate the abusive lending and mortgage packaging that led to the
housing crisis. We launched the ``Know Before You Owe'' campaign to help
students and their parents make smart decisions about paying for
college. We cracked down on unscrupulous lenders and credit card
companies that charge hidden fees. And we did away with the practice of
adding pages of misleading fine print to important financial agreements.
We are also committed to helping consumers avoid scams, protect their
personal information, and make good financial decisions. That is why
agencies across the Federal Government joined with consumer advocates to
launch www.NCPW.gov, an online resource that provides practical advice
for managing finances and safeguarding against identity theft.
As the driving force behind our economy, consumers deserve clear rules,
fair treatment, and full disclosure. Whether opening credit cards,
buying cars, applying for mortgages, or taking out student loans, all
Americans should have access to complete, concise information. This
week, we resolve to strengthen consumer rights and build a more
transparent, efficient, effective marketplace.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 3 through March
9, 2013, as National Consumer Protection Week. I call upon government
officials, industry leaders, and advocates across the Nation to share
information about consumer protection and provide our citizens with
information about their rights as consumers.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of March,
in the year of our Lord two thousand thirteen, and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.
BARACK OBAMA