Oral argument: Dec. 8, 2010
Appealed from: United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit (Mar. 16, 2009)
COMMERCIAL LAW, TRUTH IN LENDING ACT, CREDIT CARDS
James McCoy alleges that Chase Bank (“Chase”) retroactively increased his credit card interest rate, without notice, in violation of the Truth in Lending Act’s Regulation Z. The Regulation has since been revised to require notice in this particular situation. McCoy argues that the plain language of Regulation Z mandated that he receive notice prior to an increase of his interest rate. Chase argues that the bank provided adequate notice. In support of its argument, Chase cites unofficial commentary promulgated by Federal Reserve Board, the agency which implements the Truth in Lending Act. The Supreme Court’s ruling will clarify the level of notice required prior to raising interest rates, and will provide advice on what sources may be used in interpreting complex statutes.
