Mortgage Foreclosure Mediation Law Takes Effect September 13th

This year the General Assembly passed and the Governor signed into law legislation authored by our office which requires that before initiating a foreclosure, a mortgage lender must offer the owner-occupant of a 1-4 unit residential property a formal process to determine whether foreclosure can be avoided.

This new law which will ensure that every Rhode Island homeowner who is having trouble making their mortgage payments has the opportunity to communicate directly with their lender to try and find a solution that will help them get back on track with their mortgage and remain in their home. It is also an important tool to help direct homeowners to the resources they need early enough in the foreclosure process to make a difference. I am confident that it will result in fewer foreclosures, which is great news for homeowners, lenders and municipalities.

New School Year, New Dangers

It’s back to school time for kids.  That means new clothes, new school supplies, new friends, and unfortunately, new dangers for young students.  Now more than ever, students are using the Internet as part of their studies in school and at home.  Whether it is a smart phone, desktop computer, tablet or even gaming device, young people are accessing the Internet continually throughout their day.  And, for every second they are surfing the web, there are dangers lurking.

 

The Internet offers many opportunities for young people. It is a gateway to exciting new opportunities and allows young people to expand their horizons far beyond their neighborhood. But, it can also be a place of danger. That is why we need to ensure the Internet is a safe and secure environment for our young people. Just as we teach our children to not talk to strangers, be aware of dangers in our community, and what to do if someone bullies them in person, we must address those dangers online.