The DFPI protects California consumers and oversees the operations of state-licensed financial institutions, including banks, credit unions, debt collectors, nonbank mortgage lenders, student loan servicers, money transmitters, and others.

[2] The DFI also focused on further regulatory reforms and helped create an environment of innovation within financial institutions.

This change was part of Governor Jerry Brown's plan to increase the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of state government.

The measure included an increase in staff and authority, to enhance the department's regulatory scope and enable it to become a national model for consumer protection.

Modeled after the CFPB, the new law also was designed to promote innovation, clarify regulatory hurdles for emerging products, and increase education and outreach for vulnerable groups.

It offers translation services in dozens of languages and flags complaints that require investigation to the department's enforcement division.

Working to reach all Californians, the Communications team helps draft and edit external communications, including consumer alerts, emergency proclamations, website content, social media campaigns, presentations, media releases, educational resources, and more.

The DFPI outreach team works directly with stakeholders and community groups across California to educate consumers about the department's oversight, disseminate financial resources, and partner with community groups and local representatives on financial education opportunities.

Both the DFPI and DCA seek to promote informed consumer practices and publish a variety of publications on consumer-related issues.