In this episode of Regulatory Oversight, we kick off a two-part series on the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Stephen Piepgrass, Michael Yaghi, and Dan Waltz explore the significance of the BBB for businesses, particularly in relation to regulatory scrutiny and consumer trust. The conversation begins with an overview of the BBB as a quasi-governmental agency, emphasizing its role in consumer complaints and how these are perceived by regulators, including state attorneys general.

The discussion covers practical strategies for businesses to systematically address BBB complaints and improve their ratings. The speakers emphasize the trust consumers and regulators place in BBB ratings, making it crucial for companies to proactively manage their BBB profiles to mitigate scrutiny from the BBB, as well as other regulatory bodies. The episode concludes with a discussion on the structure of the BBB, which consists of national and regional branches.

In this episode of our special Regulatory Oversight: Solicitors General Insights series, Jeff Johnson is joined by District of Columbia Solicitor General Caroline Van Zile and Washington Solicitor General Noah Purcell to discuss their respective offices, and the distinct challenges and focuses of each. Noah shares insights into the Washington Solicitor General's Office, and Caroline discusses the multifaceted nature of the District of Columbia Solicitor General's Office, as they balance a diverse array of appellate work and providing legal advice on novel issues.

The episode explores the pressing legal challenges and cases currently being addressed by each office. This includes litigation against federal policies and the defense of state laws in Washington, alongside consumer protection cases in the District of Columbia. The conversation then transitions to two pivotal U.S. Supreme Court cases that examine the intricate relationship between public education, religious freedoms, and state action. These cases raise critical questions about parental rights and the role of charter schools within the public education system. Throughout the episode, Caroline and Noah offer insightful perspectives on the potential ramifications of these cases, emphasizing their broader impact on state and local governments.

The episode concludes with a reflection on the rewarding aspects of their roles and the importance of their work in shaping public policy and serving their communities.

In this episode of our special Regulatory Oversight: Solicitors General Insights series, Jeff Johnson is joined by Iowa Solicitor General Eric Wessan and Indiana Solicitor General James Barta to discuss their roles and responsibilities, as well as the current legal challenges their offices are facing. The conversation delves into the intricacies of state and federal court appeals, highlighting the significant amount of work done in state courts.

Eric explains the Iowa solicitor general division's focus on agriculture and energy, emphasizing the importance of defending state laws and handling appeals. He also discusses the unique appellate process in Iowa, where all appeals initially go to the Iowa Supreme Court. James outlines Indiana's approach, which includes defending state statutes, strategic litigation, and advising the attorney general on various legal matters.

The episode explores the issue of extraterritorial regulation, and the challenges posed by states imposing regulations that affect industries in other states, such as pork production and fossil fuel usage. While highlighting the importance of preserving state sovereignty, the discussion concludes by addressing the principles of equal sovereignty and federalism, referencing recent Supreme Court cases and ongoing litigation.

In this episode of the Regulatory Oversight podcast, Stephen Piepgrass welcomes David Navetta, Lauren Geiser, and Dan Waltz to discuss the $51.75 million nationwide class settlement involving Clearview AI and its broader implications. The conversation focuses on Clearview AI's facial recognition software, which has sparked controversy due to its use of publicly available images to generate biometric data.

The discussion begins with an overview of the facial recognition software, followed by an analysis of alleged privacy law violations, particularly concerning the Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA). David provides insights into biometric data and its implications, while Dan explores BIPA, a unique Illinois law that regulates biometric data collection and offers a private right of action for violations. Lauren outlines the settlement's structure, highlighting the creative approach to negotiating its terms. The settlement faced objections from 22 state attorneys general (AGs) and the AG for the District of Columbia, mainly due to concerns over consumer monetary relief and the absence of injunctive relief.

The episode concludes with valuable insights into the importance of engaging with state AGs during settlement negotiations, setting precedents for creative settlements, and the necessity for companies to proactively manage their use of personal data to avoid similar legal challenges.

In this crossover episode of The Consumer Finance Podcast and Regulatory Oversight, Chris Willis, Kim Phan, and Stephen Piepgrass provide insights on a new joint privacy task force among several state AGs, known as the Consortium of Privacy Regulators. The consortium recently outlined goals to share state resources and align enforcement priorities regarding consumer harm and privacy rights. In response to an anticipated shift of regulatory scrutiny from federal agencies to state leaders, this episode focuses on specific steps financial services companies should consider when dealing with consumer privacy, data, complaints, and inquiries to ensure compliance and mitigate potential investigations and enforcement actions.

In this episode of Regulatory Oversight, Stephen Piepgrass is joined by colleagues Brad Weber and Christy Matelis from the firm's Antitrust Practice Group to explore the evolving landscape of right-to-repair laws across the United States.

The discussion delves into the complexities of the right-to-repair movement, highlighting the patchwork nature of state laws and the absence of a national framework. Christy outlines the consumer-driven push for the ability to repair and modify products ranging from cell phones to agricultural equipment, while Brad explains the role of federal statutes like the FTC Act and the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act in shaping corporate compliance. The conversation touches on significant legal cases, such as the ongoing litigation involving John Deere, which underscores the tension between consumer rights and corporate interests. As state attorneys general become increasingly active in this space, the podcast concludes by examining the potential for bipartisan support and the implications of tariffs on consumer behavior.

Join us for a special crossover episode of The Consumer Finance Podcast and Regulatory Oversight, where Chris Willis, Kim Phan, and Gene Fishel delve into the evolving world of state AI legislation. As AI becomes a pivotal tool in the financial services industry, understanding the implications of new laws is crucial. This episode focuses on Colorado's comprehensive AI law and its potential influence on other states, exploring key issues such as algorithmic discrimination, privacy, and cybersecurity. Gain insights into best practices for compliance and learn how state attorneys general are stepping up enforcement in the absence of federal action. Don't miss this informative discussion bridging consumer finance and regulatory oversight.

In this episode of our special Regulatory Oversight: Solicitors General Insights series, Jeff Johnson, a former deputy solicitor general in the Missouri Attorney General's office, welcomes Scott Stewart, solicitor general of Mississippi, and Matt Rice, solicitor general of Tennessee. The episode uncovers the intricacies of being a state solicitor general and the impact of their work on state and national levels.

Scott and Matt discuss the unique aspects of their positions, emphasizing their roles as lead advocates in appellate litigation and the importance of maintaining consistency across vast state litigation. The conversation covers their day-to-day responsibilities, including drafting briefs, preparing for arguments, and providing strategic advice. They also touch on the challenges of managing time between these tasks and the rewarding nature of their work in public service. They conclude their discussion by exploring the evolving landscape of administrative law, including the implications of recent Supreme Court decisions on the major questions doctrine and nondelegation doctrine.

In this episode of Regulatory Oversight, Stephanie Kozol and Chuck Slemp welcome Illinois Attorney General (AG) Kwame Raoul and Chief Deputy AG Brent Stratton. Raoul and Stratton share their career inspirations, unique journeys into politics, and the challenges they have faced in their political endeavors.

The duo explains the AG office's organizational structure and operations, as well as their contributions to the office. They highlight their efforts in enhancing worker protection, combating internet crimes against children, and addressing organized retail crime. The episode concludes with Raoul and Stratton reflecting on their roles and career milestones.

In this episode of Regulatory Oversight, Stephanie Kozol and Chuck Slemp welcome Maine Attorney General (AG) Aaron Frey to discuss the unique aspects of the Maine Office of the AG. The conversation begins with Frey sharing his personal background and motivations for entering public service, before delving into the distinctive process of electing the AG in Maine.

The insightful discussion then turns to the inner workings and focuses of the AG's office, highlighting its jurisdiction over criminal law and efforts to combat the opioid crisis. Additionally, they explore Frey's role as co-chair of the National Association of Attorneys General Elder Justice Committee, alongside Virginia AG Jason Miyares. They consider the unique vulnerabilities of the senior population, aiming to protect them from scams and exploitation. The episode concludes with a friendly conversation, reaffirming Frey's commitment to the people of Maine.