Native Americans Exploited in the Marketplace

Reservations are Surrounded by Predatory Businesses

Native Americans are subjected to predatory and unfair business practices by a host of “fringe’ market businesses, including payday lenders, pawn shops, auto-pawn dealers, rent–to-own companies and others.  Clustered around reservations, predatory merchants have filled the void left by banks and other traditional lending institutions who are reluctant to lend on reservations because land is held in trust and tribal laws fail to provide sufficient security for loans made on reservations.  In addition, many tribal laws don’t have consumer protection provisions such as truth in lending rights, equal credit opportunity rights, fair debt collection rights and others. 

How NCLC Can Help

NCLC seeks funding to form partnerships with groups interested in protecting the consumer rights of Native Americans.  As resources permit, NCLC can provide the following support services: 

Training.  NCLC can conduct trainings for Native American advocates, policymakers and enforcement officials to address predatory lending practices and unfair business practices.  Our in-depth workshops provide attendees extensive training materials and resource guides. 

Policy Analysis.  Drawing on our experience in jurisdictions across the country, NCLC can help advocates analyze existing consumer protections, evaluate marketplace alternatives, and draft model legislation. 

Consulting Services.  Our specialists keep up with the latest developments in the changing world of consumer law and can help respond to the most current abuses.  For more than 35 years, NCLC has been on the forefront of developments affecting consumer law and litigation.  Our breadth of experience and access to resources allow us to offer high-quality assistance.

Consumer Education.  While education alone is not a panacea, it can make a difference.  NCLC publishes easy to understand guides and brochures to help consumers avoid scams and make smart choices.