Consumer spending comprises 70% of the U.S. economy, so restoring consumer confidence and demand for products is vital to creating jobs. This is more likely to happen if consumers know that the financial marketplace is fair and safe for everyone. Therefore, Congress should promote a strong, engaged Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Overview of CFPB describes its structure, funding, duties and how it will work with the states to enforce consumer protections.

Presentation on key provisions of the Dodd-Frank financial reform law, relating to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and mortgage lending

For the final financial reform bill that will be considered and voted on by the House and Senate joint conference committee, there are three issues vital in protecting taxpayers from another crisis in the future.

As the House-Senate conference committee finalizes financial reform, there are three major issues for mortgages: better lending standards, accountability for illegal lending, and foreclosure prevention.

To ensure that the CFPA is independent of the industry it is trying to regulate, Congress must ensure that the funding source remains independent of political pressure.

The Consumer Financial Protection Agency should be headed by a strong, independent-minded director, rather than a five-member commission, to ensure that the Consumer Financial Protection Agency is free from industry influence and costly delays.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau would actually reduce regulatory burden while increasing safety and soundness and making loans more affordable.

How Does Dodd’s Latest Financial Reform Bill Measure Up On Consumer Protection? Comparison of Senate, House, and Administration CFPA Bills from Think Progress: http://wonkroom.thinkprogress.org/2010/03/15/cfpa-chart/.