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Agencies Propose Regulation on the Role of Supervisory Guidance

Five federal financial regulatory agencies today invited comment on a proposal outlining and confirming the agencies’ use of supervisory guidance for regulated institutions. The proposal would codify the statement, as amended, that was issued in September 2018 by the agencies that clarified the differences between regulations and guidance.

Unlike a law or regulation, supervisory guidance does not have the force and effect of law and the agencies do not take enforcement actions or issue supervisory criticisms based on non-compliance with supervisory guidance. Rather, supervisory guidance outlines supervisory expectations and priorities, or articulates views regarding appropriate practices for a given subject area.

In contrast to supervisory guidance, regulations do have the force and effect of law and enforcement actions can be taken if regulated institutions are in violation. Regulations are also generally required to go through the notice and comment process.

Comments will be accepted for 60 days following publication in the Federal Register.

View the invitation for comment on the proposed rule: https://files.consumerfinance.gov/f/documents/cfpb_npr_supervisory-guidance_2020-10.pdf

Media Contacts

Federal Reserve Board: Eric Kollig, (202) 452-2955

CFPB: Marisol Garibay, (202) 384-8538

FDIC: Julianne Fisher Breitbeil, (202) 898-6895

NCUA: Joe Adamoli, (703) 518-6330

OCC: Bryan Hubbard, (202) 649-6870


The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is a 21st century agency that implements and enforces Federal consumer financial law and ensures that markets for consumer financial products are fair, transparent, and competitive. For more information, visit www.consumerfinance.gov.