Submitted by the office of the governor

ATLANTA – Gov. Sonny Perdue announced today the Governor’s Office of Consumer Affairs has launched a new Web site, www.ConsumerEd.com, which targets young adults to become smarter consumers. The Web site walks consumers through major purchasing and financial decisions, such as buying a car, purchasing a house, renting an apartment, making home improvements, dealing with credit and debt, managing money and avoiding foreclosure.

“Georgians continue to face difficult economic conditions and are therefore more interested than ever about tips on managing their money wisely,” said Perdue. “Particularly with young adults, it is important that they develop good money management skills early in life. With the state of our present economy, and the growing problem of debt in our nation, it is vital to be prepared to make good financial decisions that pay off for years to come.”

The Web site is divided into four main topic areas: Car, Home, Credit/Debt and Finances 101. The colorful, dynamic design features a friendly, red-headed guide named “Consumer Ed.”

As the state’s consumer protection agency, the Governor’s Office of Consumer Affairs strives to protect Georgia consumers and businesses from unlawful, deceptive and unfair practices in the marketplace through law enforcement and through consumer education. In this latest education initiative, the agency has created a one-stop shopping resource for consumers who are grappling with major purchase decisions.

The Governor’s Office of Consumer Affairs is the consumer protection agency for the state of Georgia. The office is charged with protecting consumers from unfair and deceptive acts and practices in the context of consumer transactions. OCA investigates consumer problems, monitors the marketplace to promote fair and honest competition, takes enforcement actions against violators and publishes consumer education materials and alert warnings.