Md. financial regulations office names Anne Balcer Norton assistant commissioner
Anne Balcer Norton has been appointed assistant commissioner for non-depository institutions with the state Office of the Commissioner of Financial Regulation, it was announced Monday.
Balcer Norton most recently directed the foreclosure prevention program at St. Ambrose Housing Aid Center in Baltimore. In her new role, she will oversee regulation of mortgage lenders and brokers, check cashers, debt-management companies and other non-banking firms.
“Anne brings a unique and powerful combination of skills and experiences, and we are thrilled to have her join our team at this critical time,” Alexander M. Sanchez, Secretary of Labor, Licensing and Regulation, said in a release Monday. The Office of the Commissioner of Financial Regulation is part of DLRR.
Norton’s appointment comes as Maryland begins a new state program in which homeowners facing foreclosure can seek mediation with their lender before a state administrative law judge. Norton was part of the group that crafted the legislation.
The new law, a centerpiece of Gov. Martin O’Malley’s 2010 General Assembly agenda, was signed into law in May. It goes into effect July 1.
Norton is slated to start her new job in early July.