CFPB Acting Director Orders Staff to Cease Work
Acting Director Russell Vought has directed all employees of the U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to refrain from performing any work functions, as per an email obtained by Reuters. The directive was issued on Monday, shortly after Vought's appointment to the role.
"Employees should not come into the office. Please do not perform any work tasks," Vought stated in the email.
The suspension of operations at the CFPB comes amidst a dispute over the legitimacy of Vought's appointment. Certain legal experts have questioned whether Vought, who is currently serving as Acting Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), can legally lead two federal agencies simultaneously.
The move has raised concerns among consumer advocates who fear that the CFPB, tasked with protecting consumers from financial abuse, will be weakened under Vought's leadership. The CFPB has faced criticism from some Republican lawmakers and financial industry representatives for its aggressive enforcement activities.