Yesterday, Commissioner William R. Haraf announced that he will be leaving the Department of Financial Institutions at the end of this week.  Former Governor Schwarzenegger appointed him to the post in 2008.  California’s profile as a financial institutions regulator increased during his tenure.  He served as the state representative on the Financial Stability Oversight Council established by the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010.  See From DFI to CSBS to FSOC.

A few hours later, Governor Jerry Brown announced the appointment of Teveia R. Barnes as the new Commissioner.  She has over 30 years experience in representing banks and other financial institutions.  Most recently, she was a partner at Foley & Lardner LLP in San Francisco.   She also serves as president and executive director of Lawyers For One America, an organization that advocates for, and actively promotes, greater racial and ethnic diversity in the legal profession.  Incoming Commissioner Barnes received her J.D. from New York University School of Law and her bachelor’s degree from Rice University.

CalPERS Broadcasts Board Meetings

Yesterday, the California Public Employees Retirement System began broadcasting its monthly Board of Administration meetings.  According to CalPERS, these broadcasts will be available in video and audio mode with captions. 

DOC Commissioner Jan Owen Issues Consumer Warning

Recognizing National Consumer Protection Week, Commissioner Jan Owen has issued this warning of top investor scams.