This conservative, registered Republican attorney is ashamed of Sens. Rick Santorum and Arlen Specter, who
voted to approve the Bankruptcy Reform Act, easily the most consumer unfriendly legislation in my lifetime. Although it was
sold to the public as a reform act, it makes it nearly impossible for many families to file for bankruptcy.
I have yet to represent anyone attempting to abuse the system. Most need protection from the credit card
vultures, who are often abusive. Virtually all of them have suffered catastrophic financial hardship from medical bills, job
loss or divorce.
People need to be responsible for their debts, but we need a safety net for those, through no fault of their
own, who find themselves in a financial hole.
Also, we need to hold credit card companies partially accountable. I have had elderly clients on fixed Social
Security incomes with over $100,000 in credit card debt. Can anyone tell me how that happens? We need reform all right --
credit card reform.
This bill has been roundly criticized by bankruptcy judges, bankruptcy trustees, bankruptcy practitioners,
women's groups, minority groups and dozens of other consumer groups. It is supported by the credit card industry.
We now face a fight in the House on this bill. Our representatives must stand up to the credit card company
juggernaught.
John P. Neblett, Harrisburg
