Published: August 02, 2008 09:45 am      

Other View: Students and credit cards

Oh, the solicitations sound so good ... easy money, free T-shirts, free meals. Apply instantly!

But when it comes to credit cards and college students, Congress is right to focus some of its industry reform efforts on questionable tactics used to lure new card-holders.

Bills pending in both the House and the Senate are attempting to better regulate firms soliciting students. ...

Some firms are clearly not seeking credit-worthy people when they sign up some students without doing credit checks. ...

Such practices can lead to debts that the young people can ill afford.

Credit card issuers should do their part by clearly and fairly explaining policies and ratcheting back costs and fees that have increased while billing periods shortened.

-- Kansas City Star