AB-1864, which took effect on January 1, 2021 and significantly expanded the powers of the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation, required the DFPI to establish a “Financial Technology Innovation Office.”

Adam Wright, Senior Counsel, recently joined the Department’s new Office of Financial Technology Innovation, having previously served as an enforcement attorney with the DFPI.  In his new role, Adam will be hearing feedback from companies doing business in California and engaging with industry stakeholders to help them bring innovative products to market.  These discussions may include regulatory questions.

The new Office holds weekly office hours (currently on Tuesdays), and those wishing to meet with a member of the Office during office hours can use the contact form on the Office’s website or can send an email to Adam or Christina Tetreault, who heads the Office.

The Ballard team has significant experience dealing with the DFPI, including matters with Adam.  We can facilitate meetings with Adam and the Office of Financial Technology Innovation, and also have discussions with the DFPI on a “no-name” basis.