In September, 1979, I signed an Executive Order designed to strengthen and
coordinate Federal consumer programs and to establish procedures to improve
and facilitate consumer participation in government decision-making. Forty
Federal agencies have adopted programs to comply with the requirements of
the Order. These programs will improve complaint handling, provide better
information to consumers, enhance opportunities for public participation in
government proceedings, and assure that the consumer point of view is
considered in all programs, policies, and regulations.
While substantial progress has been made in assuring a consumer presence in
Federal agencies, work must continue to meet fully the goals of the
Executive Order. Close monitoring of agency compliance with the
requirements of the Order is necessary. Continued evaluation to assure that
the programs are effective and making maximum use of available resources is
also essential. As a complement to these initiatives, efforts to provide
financial assistance in regulatory proceedings to citizen groups, small
businesses, and others whose participation is limited by their economic
circumstances must continue to be pursued.
It is essential that consumer representatives in government pay particular
attention to the needs and interests of low-income consumers and
minorities. The Office of Consumer Affairs' publication, "People Power:
What Communities Are Doing to Counter Inflation," catalogues some of the
ways that government and the private sector can assist the less powerful in
our society to help themselves. New ways should be found to help foster
this new people's movement which is founded on the principle of
self-reliance.