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Trump set to sign executive order 'shuttering the Education Department' as Colorado takes him to court over efforts to abolish it; Arizona rallies protest possible U.S. Postal Service 'reforms;' Audit shows Allegheny County public defenders overwhelmed with caseloads.

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White House attacks the judge who moved to block deportation of Venezuelans. Ukrainian President agrees to a limited ceasefire. And advocates say closing CFPB would put consumers on the hook for 'junk' charges and predatory fees.

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Cuts to Medicaid and frozen funding for broadband are both likely to have a negative impact on rural healthcare, which is already struggling. Plus, lawsuits over the mass firing of federal workers have huge implications for public lands.

CA consumer groups pan bill 'repo man' would give rave review

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Tuesday, August 6, 2024   

Consumer groups are speaking out against legislation proposed in California which would make it easier to repossess a car or other property, by exempting "repo" agents from trespassing laws.

Assembly Bill 2120 would allow repo agents to seize vehicles parked on private property, such as a driveway.

John Van Alst, senior attorney at the National Consumer Law Center, opposes the bill.

"We see a number of folks killed, injured every year," Van Alst pointed out. "We see repossession agents and consumers hurt and killed, we see children still in the car when it's repossessed."

The California Association of Licensed Reposessors argues it is safer to seize a car from a person's home rather than leave them stranded in public. The bill has passed the State Assembly and is now in the Suspense File, awaiting consideration by the state Senate Appropriations Committee.

Van Alst noted police may need to help mediate during lawful repossessions.

"There is a procedure in California that allows a more orderly process, called Replevin," Van Alst explained. "You can get a court order and the assistance of law enforcement if that's necessary."

The bill applies only to agents registered with the Department of Consumer Affairs, who leave within a reasonable amount of time after seizing the vehicle or other property. In 2021, Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a similar bill, citing concerns about the potential for abuse or altercations.


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