For class action defense attorneys who defend against RESPA (Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act) class actions, we make the text of RESPA available here. Congress clarified the affect of RESPA on state laws and provided for determining whether state laws were inconsistent with federal laws in 12 U.S.C. § 2616, which provides as follows:
§ 2616. State laws unaffected; inconsistent Federal and State provisions
This chapter does not annul, alter, or affect, or exempt any person subject to the provisions of this chapter from complying with, the laws of any State with respect to settlement practices, except to the extent that those laws are inconsistent with any provision of this chapter, and then only to the extent of the inconsistency. The Secretary is authorized to determine whether such inconsistencies exist. The Secretary may not determine that any State law is inconsistent with any provision of this chapter if the Secretary determines that such law gives greater protection to the consumer. In making these determinations the Secretary shall consult with the appropriate Federal agencies.
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