FCRA Focus is dedicated to discussing "all things" related to the Fair Credit Reporting Act, which regulates the collection of consumers' credit information and access to their credit reports. Each episode explores an interesting aspect of credit reporting, with the aim of providing new insights that help consumer finance businesses do their jobs better. Guests from the industry and lawyers for consumers as well as business insiders will join host Dave Gettings in this podcast series.
In this episode of FCRA Focus, host Dave Gettings is joined by Elizabeth Holt Andrews to break down a significant new development in California standing law — a recent split between the Fifth Appellate District's Limon decision and the First Appellate District's Askins ruling — and what that split means for defendants facing FCRA claims in California state court. Dave and Elizabeth discuss strategic considerations around removal, demurrers, and a critical procedural tool for attacking nationwide class action claims at the pleading stage.
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In this episode of FCRA Focus, hosts Kim Phan and Dave Gettings are joined by colleague Tim St. George to unpack major legislative developments impacting employment background screening. They discuss New York's new statewide ban on the use of consumer credit history in most hiring and employment decisions, Virginia's upcoming requirements for background screening businesses, and emerging federal proposals that could reshape FCRA liability, reseller obligations, and the reporting of criminal and credit information. The conversation highlights notable litigation trends, preemption and First Amendment issues, and practical steps for employers, CRAs, and resellers navigating rapidly evolving state and federal requirements.
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In this episode of FCRA Focus, host Kim Phan is joined by Michael Yaghi, partner in Troutman Pepper Locke's Regulatory Investigations, Strategy + Enforcement practice group, to unpack the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation's (DFPI) latest effort to require registration for the credit reporting industry. They discuss DFPI's second request for comment, how it fits into California's broader push to regulate nonbank financial services, and which entities may be swept in beyond the "big three" consumer reporting agencies — such as furnishers, data brokers, specialty credit reporting agencies, resellers, and fintechs. Kim and Michael also explore how narrowly (or broadly) the rules might be drawn, potential overlap and tension with existing FCRA requirements, what registration and reporting could mean in practice for covered entities, and what companies should be doing now as the February 26 comment deadline approaches.
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In this episode of FCRA Focus, host Dave Gettings is joined by Troutman colleagues Cindy Hanson and Noah DiPasquale for a deep dive into reseller litigation under the Fair Credit Reporting Act. The trio breaks down what a "reseller" is under 15 U.S.C. 1681a(u), how resellers function as intermediaries between originating consumer reporting agencies and end users, and why that limited role matters when evaluating claims under 1681e(b) and 1681i. They discuss recent case law on reasonable procedures, the impact of 1681i(f)'s limited dispute obligations, and practical litigation strategies, including leveraging industry standards, expert testimony, and arguments against double recovery under the one-satisfaction rule and setoff.
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On this episode of FCRA Focus, Kim Phan is joined by Rachel Kelley and Alisha Sears from the Mortgage Bankers Association to discuss the Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act, which amends the Fair Credit Reporting Act to address residential mortgage trigger leads with the goal of curbing abusive calls while preserving meaningful competition. This law now requires both a firm offer of credit and documented consumer authorization, with limited exceptions for current originators, servicers, and depository institutions/credit unions holding an account. They discuss how the law places the primary obligations on consumer reporting agencies, what lenders should expect around consent certifications, the Government Accountability Office study on trigger-leads, and the upcoming effective date.
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In this episode of FCRA Focus, co-hosts Dave Gettings and Kim Phan are joined by partner Stefanie Jackman to unpack the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's (CFPB) evolving interpretation of Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) preemption. They trace the timeline from the CFPB's July 2022 interpretive rule, through its withdrawal in May 2025, to the October 2025 confirmation and new guidance embracing a broader view of preemption under 15 U.S.C. § 1681t(b)(1). The team discusses how the CFPB's latest stance could impact state laws regulating consumer reports beyond "credit" — including medical debt, rental information, and criminal background checks — and why interpretive rules, despite being helpful and persuasive, are not binding on courts. They also explore practical implications for litigation and compliance, the current judicial environment for agency deference, and the ongoing tension between the need for nationwide uniformity and the growing patchwork of state-by-state mini-FCRA laws.
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In this episode of FCRA Focus, host Dave Gettings is joined by Brooke Conkle and Mandi Blackmon to explore the intricacies of a furnisher's reasonable investigation under Section 1681s-2(b) of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). The discussion centers around the Second Circuit's recent decision in the Suluki case, which addresses the standards for conducting a reasonable investigation in the context of identity theft allegations. The hosts delve into the background of the case, the arguments presented by both parties, and the court's rationale in affirming summary judgment for the defendant. They also examine how this decision aligns with prior Second Circuit precedent and its implications for compliance and litigation strategies. Tune in for a detailed analysis of how the Suluki decision reinforces the principle that investigations must be reasonable, not perfect, and what this means for furnishers navigating similar claims.
In this special crossover episode between FCRA Focus and The Consumer Finance Podcast, Kim Phan, Dave Gettings, Chris Willis, and Cindy Hanson explore the recent withdrawal of Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) guidance affecting the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). This episode provides a comprehensive analysis of how these changes impact key areas such as preemption, background screening, permissible purpose, artificial intelligence, and state attorneys general enforcement actions. The discussion highlights the implications for consumer reporting agencies, furnishers, end-users, and the broader regulatory landscape, offering valuable insights for professionals navigating these evolving challenges. Tune in to understand the potential shifts in compliance and enforcement.
In this episode of FCRA Focus, hosts Kim Phan and Dave Gettings are joined by Eric Ellman, president of the National Consumer Reporting Association (NCRA), for an insightful discussion on the current landscape of tenant screening and mortgage reporting resellers. Eric shares his thoughts on the challenges these industries face, including increased litigation and regulatory pressures at the state level. The conversation delves into the unique role of resellers in the consumer reporting ecosystem and the legal ambiguities affecting them. Eric also discusses the NCRA's advocacy efforts to address these issues and highlights the potential for growth through technology and artificial intelligence. Tune in to understand the complexities and opportunities within the tenant screening and reseller sectors, all while enjoying Eric's sartorial flair.
In this episode of FCRA Focus, hosts Kim Phan and Dave Gettings bring you the latest updates from the regulatory and litigation sides of the house. Dave shares his insights on the challenges and litigation surrounding identity theft investigations, offering practical tips for furnishers to navigate these complex issues. Kim provides an overview of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's renewed supervision efforts and what it means for Fair Credit Reporting Act compliance. Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with valuable information and practical advice.
In this episode of FCRA Focus, host Dave Gettings is joined by Cindy Hanson, Scott Kelly, and Tim St. George, partners in Troutman Pepper Locke's Consumer Financial Services Practice Group, to discuss the most impactful regulatory issues in credit reporting from 2024 and their potential impact in 2025. The discussion covers developments in background screening, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's advisory opinions on reasonable procedures, and proposed rulemaking related to medical debt. The group also explores emerging litigation trends and the impact of recent regulatory activities on industry standards.
Join host Kim Phan and special guests David Anthony, Stefanie Jackman, and Mark Furletti as they delve into the significant Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) developments of 2024 and provide insights on what to expect in 2025. This episode covers a range of topics, including the impact of the outgoing Biden Administration and the incoming Trump Administration on FCRA regulations, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's recent rulemaking activities, and the ongoing legal challenges. Tune in to understand the evolving landscape of consumer reporting laws and regulation and how it may affect your business. Don't miss this comprehensive review and analysis from Troutman Pepper Locke's seasoned legal professionals.
NOTE: At the time of recording this podcast did not capture recent events relating to the change in CFPB leadership and resulting instructions to CFPB staff regarding CFPB rulemakings and investigations. Stay tuned for future podcast episodes addressing these important developments.
Join host Dave Gettings and guest Elizabeth Holt Andrews in this episode of FCRA Focus as they delve into the complexities of arbitration in California, a frequent battleground for FCRA cases. Elizabeth, an appellate attorney from Troutman Pepper Locke's San Francisco office, shares updates on a major arbitration case pending in the California Supreme Court, Hohenshelt v. Superior Court. They explore the implications of recently enacted California statutes governing arbitration, the potential national impact, and the challenges businesses face under these new rules. Tune in for an insightful conversation on the evolving arbitration landscape and what it means for consumer financial services companies. Don't miss this engaging episode filled with in-depth analysis and practical insights.
In this episode of FCRA Focus, host Dave Gettings is joined by fellow partner Tim St. George to delve into the intersection of the Fair Housing Act (FHA), consumer reporting agencies, and The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). They explore the nuances of FHA claims, including disparate treatment and disparate impact, and discuss the implications for tenant screening and mortgage consumer reporting agencies. Tim shares insights from his extensive experience in federal trials and appeals involving FHA claims, offering valuable perspectives on compliance strategies and the evolving legal landscape. Tune in to understand how the FHA could affect your business practices and what steps you can take to mitigate potential liabilities.
In this episode of FCRA Focus, hosts Kim Phan and Dave Gettings welcome Mark Furletti, co-leader of Troutman Pepper's Consumer Financial Services Regulatory practice. Mark shares his extensive knowledge on the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and provides practical advice on how companies, especially fintechs, can operate without becoming a consumer reporting agency (CRA) under the FCRA. The discussion delves into the intricate definitions within the FCRA, common pitfalls, and best practices. Tune in to learn how to navigate the regulatory landscape and mitigate risks associated with consumer report information. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with tips and real-world examples.
Join Kim Phan, co-host of the Troutman Pepper podcast, FCRA Focus, as she welcomes special guests from the Credit Builders Alliance (CBA). In this episode, Chief Technical Officer Elisabeth Johnson-Crawford and Manager of Bureau Services Arinze Nwadiogbu, share their insights on the challenges and strategies for smaller entities in credit reporting. Learn about the benefits of credit reporting, the legal risks involved, and the comprehensive support CBA provides to its nonprofit members. From initial setup to ongoing compliance, discover how CBA helps organizations navigate the complexities of the credit reporting system. Tune in for an in-depth discussion on FCRA compliance, alternative data, and more. Don't miss this informative episode packed with valuable advice and practical solutions for credit reporting success.
In this episode of FCRA Focus, host Kim Phan is joined by fellow Troutman Pepper partner Stefanie Jackman and Michelle Macartney, managing partner and chief compliance officer at Bridgeforce. Together, they delve into the complexities of reporting collections activity to consumer reporting agencies. Michelle shares her extensive experience in consumer reporting compliance, offering valuable insights into the challenges and best practices for maintaining data accuracy and handling disputes. The discussion also covers the latest CFPB draft rulemaking on medical debt and its implications for consumer reporting agencies, end users, and furnishers. Tune in to learn how to navigate the intersection of FCRA and debt collection as well as discover effective compliance strategies to mitigate risks in today's regulatory environment. Don't miss this informative episode packed with practical tips and industry updates!
In this episode of FCRA Focus, host Dave Gettings and his colleague Courtney Hitchcock explore the complexities of the Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA). With an increase in FCBA claims, including those from pro se litigants, it is essential for creditors to understand the procedural requirements and potential challenges. Courtney discusses the basics of the FCBA, common billing errors, and the steps creditors should take when faced with a claim. She also provides practical strategies for effectively handling FCBA disputes. Tune in for an informative discussion that will help you navigate FCBA claims with confidence.
In this insightful episode of FCRA Focus, host Dave Gettings and guest Jonathan DeMars, an associate in Troutman Pepper's Consumer Financial Services Practice Group, delve into the recent Supreme Court decision in Kirtz v. Department of Agriculture. This ruling examines the potential liability of the government under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and has implications through the legal community and beyond. Join us as we explore the intricacies of the case, the arguments that swayed the Supreme Court, and the likely effects on both government entities and private parties. This episode offers our insights into a case that defines the boundaries of sovereign immunity within the realm of credit reporting.
In this episode of Troutman Pepper's FCRA Focus podcast, host Kim Phan delves into the topic of dispute resolution through the e-OSCAR system with special guest, Joel Strickland, the director of customer success at e-OSCAR. Joel shares valuable insights into the resources available to data furnishers, including e-OSCAR University and the annual users conference, Simplicity. This episode illuminates the functionalities and benefits of the e-OSCAR system for FCRA dispute resolution and clarifies the limitations of e-OSCAR's role in the dispute resolution process, underscoring the importance of legal and compliance consultations for data furnishers.
With over seven years at Online Data Exchange, the company behind e-OSCAR, Joel Strickland leads the client relations team, focusing on supporting data furnishers with feature development, services, training, and communication. Based in Jacksonville, FL, Strickland shares his experience as a triathlete drawing parallels between the discipline required for triathlon training and the dedication needed for FCRA compliance, emphasizing the importance of understanding Metro2 guidelines, internal policies, and the e-OSCAR application for effective consumer credit dispute handling.
In this episode of FCRA Focus, join host Dave Gettings and fellow partner, Jason Manning, as they delve into Jason's recent experiences trying a consumer case in front of a jury. Jason and Dave discuss the impact of integrating technology into trial presentation, the strategic use of demonstratives to maintain jury engagement, approaches to breaking the ice in the courtroom, and fostering a more attentive and responsive jury. Whether you're a legal professional seeking to refine your trial tactics or simply intrigued by the dynamics of courtroom strategy, this episode offers a wealth of first-hand knowledge regarding jury trials in consumer cases.
In this episode of FCRA Focus, hosts Kim Phan and Dave Gettings are joined by Partners Cindy Hanson and Ron Raether to discuss recent CFPB advisory opinions on accuracy in background check reports and the inclusion of data sources in response to consumer file disclosure requests. They delve into the challenges companies face in obtaining accurate information from public record sources and the implications of the CFPB's guidance for the industry. The conversation also highlights the importance of effective dispute processes and vendor relationships in ensuring compliance. Tune in for insightful commentary on these critical issues in the FCRA compliance environment.
Join hosts Dave Gettings, Kim Phan, and Chris Willis in this special crossover episode of FCRA Focus and The Consumer Finance Podcast in the first installment of our Year in Review and a Look Ahead series. They are joined by guests Cindy Hanson and Alan Wingfield, partners at Troutman Pepper, who share their insights on the most impactful developments in background screening and credit reporting in 2023. Listen in as they discuss industry challenges and opportunities, the implications of proposed regulatory changes, and what to expect in the future. Stay tuned for the next episode of our Year in Review and a Look Ahead series on The Consumer Finance Podcast, providing valuable insights for anyone involved in consumer finance.
To download a copy of the Consumer Financial Services Year in Review and a Look Ahead, please click here. For a list of our upcoming webinars, visit our Troutman Pepper Insights page. And to make sure you don't miss another episode of this podcast, please click subscribe.
Please join Troutman Pepper Partner Dave Gettings and colleagues Tim St. George and Cindy Hanson for a highly informative discussion on federal preemption as it relates to state laws and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). This episode provides listeners with an overview of important state and local legislation governing background screening, along with discussions about how federal preemption might affect required compliance with these state and local laws. Topics include:
Please join us for a special cross-over episode of FCRA Focus and The Consumer Finance Podcast, where Troutman Pepper Partners Chris Willis, Dave Gettings, Kim Phan, and Ron Raether look at the latest developments in the CFPB's FCRA rulemaking process. Topics include:
Join us for the third episode in a special three-part series covering the CFPB's intention to propose new rules under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). In this episode, Troutman Pepper Partners Chris Willis, Dave Gettings, Kim Phan, Ethan Ostroff, and Ron Raether discuss the potential implications of regulating data brokers under the FCRA, and how this might affect data brokers as well as other types of entities, including users, consumer reporting agencies, and resellers.
Join us for the second episode in a special three-part series covering the CFPB's intention to propose new rules under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). In this episode, Troutman Pepper Partners Chris Willis, Dave Gettings, Kim Phan, Ron Raether, and Ethan Ostroff discuss the regulation of credit header data and the potential impact on the FCRA and consumer reporting agencies, as well as users and data brokers.
Stay tuned for the third and final episode in this series, which will focus specifically on data brokers and the possibility of regulating them under the FCRA, and how this might affect data brokers as well as other types of entities, users, consumer reporting agencies, and resellers.
Join us for the first episode in a special three-part series covering the CFPB's intention to propose new rules under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). In this episode, Troutman Pepper Partners Chris Willis, Dave Gettings, Ethan Ostroff, and Kim Phan explore the historical events that led us to this point, the next steps in the rulemaking process, the expected timeline for a final rule, how the CFPB is coordinating with the FTC and other regulators, and the expected proposed rulemaking regarding credit header data and data brokers.
Stay tuned for the next two episodes in this series. In our second episode, our panel will discuss the regulation of credit header data and the potential impact on the FCRA and consumer reporting agencies, as well as users and data brokers. And the final episode of our series will focus specifically on data brokers and the possibility of regulating data brokers under the FCRA, the effect it can have on data brokers as well as other types of entities, users, consumer reporting agencies, and resellers.
Please join Troutman Pepper Partner Dave Gettings and colleagues Tim St. George and Jessica Lohr as they discuss the use of expert witnesses in FCRA cases. During this episode the team covers a multitude of relevant topics, including:
Join us for the final episode in a special five-part series covering artificial intelligence (AI). Many companies use machine learning algorithms and AI to assist with employment decisions and tenant screening. In our final episode, Stephen Piepgrass and colleagues Ron Raether and Dave Gettings examine the use and impact of AI in background screening, including the potential risks companies may face with increased reliance on AI.
Our panel also explores the increased focus on AI by various regulators and state attorneys general, and offer some best practices to consider when developing or adopting machine learning models into business processes.
We hope you enjoyed listening and found value in this episode. For the complete series on AI, please visit the Regulatory Oversight podcast on our website for all previous AI installments.
Please join Consumer Financial Services Partner Dave Gettings in this inaugural crossover episode with Partner Chris Willis of The Consumer Finance Podcast in welcoming their guests and fellow Partners Cindy Hanson and David Anthony. Dave, Chris, Cindy, and David unite to discuss the 2022 year in review of the Fair Credit Reporting Act and a look ahead for the next year.
Cindy Hanson focuses her practice on class-action defense and has practiced FCRA litigation for over 25 years. She has handled more than a thousand matters under the FCRA and also brings significant experience representing companies defending class actions under consumer protection statues and state common law.
David Anthony represents companies in highly regulated industries, including consumer financial services companies. He brings significant experience in class actions and complex individual lawsuits. He has vast litigation experience defending cases under the FCRA, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, the Telephone Consumer Protection Act, and numerous other federal and state consumer protection statutes.
Please join Consumer Financial Services Partner Dave Gettings and his fellow Partner Ron Raether as they discuss the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and its supervision of the tenant screening industry. During this episode, Dave and Ron also examine issues facing tenant screening companies and what can be done in the industry.
Ron Raether has helped companies navigate federal and state privacy laws for over 20 years. He has effectively defended hundreds of privacy and data security putative class actions. Ron’s experience is unique in the number of privacy cases litigated through class and substantive issue motions, including defending those successes in the appellate courts.
Please join Consumer Financial Services Partner Dave Gettings and his guests and colleagues Jessica Lohr and Virginia Flynn who discuss their recent service as jurors on criminal cases, while also providing valuable insight to litigators into what a case looks like from the jury box.
Jessica defends consumer reporting agencies, national banking institutions, and mortgage loan servicers in federal and state courts at both the trial and appellate levels in complex litigation and business disputes, financial services litigation, and consumer litigation. Jessica has handled individual cases and class actions in many states and has substantial experience handling general commercial disputes in both state and federal courts in California.
Virginia focuses her practice on representing clients in federal and state court at both the trial and appellate level in complex litigation and business disputes, health care litigation, including ERISA and out-of-network issues, and consumer litigation in more than 21 states nationwide. She increasingly counsels clients to ensure they comply with the myriad of growing laws in the consumer law with a particular emphasis on the intersection of TCPA and HIPAA.
Please join Consumer Financial Services Partner Dave Gettings and his colleagues Ethan Ostroff, Brooke Conkle, and Jon Kenney as they discuss the Third Circuit’s recent decision in the Bibbs case, particularly the Third Circuit’s treatment of “pay status” allegations and what we can expect to see going forward.
Ethan Ostroff advises companies on compliance issues and interactions with regulators concerning the Fair Credit Reporting Act, while also defending furnishers, users, and specialty consumer reporting agencies in individual and class-action lawsuits under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
Brooke Conkle focuses her practice on complex litigation and federal consumer protection statutes, including the FCRA and Regulation V, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) and Regulation B, the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), and UDAP laws.
Jon Kenney represents national clients in federal and state courts and routinely defends financial services companies in litigation under various federal statutes and regulations, including the FCRA, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), the TCPA, and the Truth in Lending Act (TILA) and Regulation Z.
Please join Consumer Financial Services Partner Dave Gettings and his fellow Partner Ethan Ostroff as they discuss the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s increasingly active interest in credit reporting, including a recent CFPB blog post on credit card companies and their perceived practice of suppressing payment information, as well as what it signals to companies in the industry.
Ethan’s practice includes advising companies on compliance issues and interactions with regulators concerning the Fair Credit Reporting Act, as well as defending furnishers, users, and specialty consumer reporting agencies in individual and class-action lawsuits under the FCRA.
Join Consumer Financial Services Partner Dave Gettings as he hosts guest Kristi Kelly, one of the founders of Kelly Guzzo PLC, for a conversation discussing current FCRA trends from the plaintiffs’ counsel perspective. As a consumer protection attorney, Kristi advises consumers nationwide in individual and class-action cases under the FCRA, including cases against furnishers and consumer reporting agencies.
Please join Troutman Pepper Partner Dave Gettings and his guest Eric Ellman of the Consumer Data Industry Association (CDIA) for a conversation on recent industry developments in credit reporting. Dave and Eric discuss the CDIA’s mission, the idea of a government-run credit bureau, and recent trends in FCRA litigation. At the CDIA, Eric leads the state government and federal regulatory affairs programs, runs the legal department, serves as liaison to the format teams for credit data reporting, and participates in the association’s management. With the CDIA since 1998, Eric’s work has been highlighted on the front page of the USA Today Money section (June 2007), where he was called a “warrior” who is “always well prepared for battle.”
Join Troutman Pepper Consumer Financial Services Partner Dave Gettings for a special podcast series dedicated to exploring the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). In this inaugural episode, Dave talks with fellow Troutman Pepper Partner David Anthony, who is nationally recognized for representing consumer financial service companies, particularly in FCRA class actions. He has served as lead counsel in more than 100 class actions, and more than 1,500 individual cases across the country. In this discussion, Dave and David share what they are seeing in this practice and pull out the crystal ball to discuss where they see FCRA litigation going in 2022 and beyond.