Aspen is a place for leaders to lift their sights above the possessions which possess them. To confront their own nature as human beings, to regain control over their own humanity by becoming more self-aware, more self-correcting, and hence more self-fulfilling.

Walter P. Paepcke, Aspen Institute Co-Founder
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consumer debt

Set Up to Fail: Fines, Fees & Financial Insecurity

Chronic Debt is a rapidly growing problem among households across the US and a significant barrier to financial stability and wealth building.

Managing, Collecting, and Forgiving Consumer Debt: Lessons for Policymakers and Business Leaders

How States Can Solve the Student Debt Crisis: A Framework for Reducing Student Debt Burdens for Present and Future Borrowers

States have a unique role to play in addressing student loan burdens.

Making the Case: Solving the Student Debt Crisis

The problems associated with student loan debt are systemic and consequential for borrowers, their families, their communities, and for the nation’s economy.

Young Adults and Consumer Debt: The Quiet Crisis Next Time

October 17, 2019
Ida Rademacher and Genevieve Melford authored this piece on consumer debt for New America and The Emerging Millennial Wealth Gap.

Young student reading book in library

Many Americans Still Face Financial Instability Despite Economic Growth

July 30, 2019 The Pew Charitable Trusts interviews show continued challenges linked to income, job markets, and family situations.

A group of people working in a modern office.

Is Your Debt ‘Good’ or ‘Bad’? It Depends

July 25, 2019

Ida Rademacher is featured in the New York Times on positive and negative sides of debt.

Statement on CFPB Proposed Rule to Rescind ATR Requirements

If passed, this rule will rescind mandatory underwriting provisions set by the CFPB in November of 2017 governing these small dollar high-cost loans.

Student Loan Cancellation: Assessing Strategies to Boost Financial Security and Economic Growth

What Local Government Can Do About the Consumer-Debt Epidemic

April 11, 2019 Over-reliance on fines and fees is a big part of the problem, but there are a lot of steps that cities can take.