Proclamations Proc. 7979 In acknowledgement of the importance of the ongoing fight against cardio- vascular disease, the Congress, by Joint Resolution approved December 30, 1963, as amended (77 Stat. 843; 36 U.S.C. 10\177), has requested that the President issue an annual proclamation designating February as "American Heart Month." NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim February 2006 as American Heart Month, and I invite all Americans to participate in National Wear Red Day on Feb- ruary 3, 2006. I also invite the Governors of the States, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, officials of other areas subject to the iurisdiction of the United States, and the American people to join me in recognizing and re- affirming our commitment to combating heart disease. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of Feb- ruary, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth. GEORGE W. BUSH Proclamation 7979 of February 3, 2006 National Consumer Protection Week, 2006 By the President of the United States of Arnerica A Proclamation During National Consumer Protection Week, we highlight the importance of consumer education in the ongoing fight against fraud and encourage consumers to make wise decisions. Each year, nearly 25 million adults are victims of consumer fraud. These crimes damage lives and shake consumer confidence. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and other organizations recommend several steps that Americans can take to help protect themselves against fraud. First, con- sumers should be cautious about giving out personal information such as Social Security and account numbers. Second, they should be aware of the credentials of an organization before making a transaction, especially through the mail, over the phone, or on the Internet. Third, before final- izing a purchase or agreement, the FTC suggests considering offers with care, avoiding immediate decisions, and requesting to have information in writing. In addition, when using the Internet, the FTC recommends that consumers exercise caution in responding to solicitations and that con- sumers use and regularly update their anti-virus software and firewall. My Administration is committed to vigorous enforcement of the consumer protection statutes, and the Department of Justice's Office of Consumer Liti- gation and other Federal agencies are working diligently to that end. The FTC is working to fight unsolicited e-mail under the Controlling the As- sault of Non-Solicited Pornography and Marketing Act and is establishing new rules under the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act to further protect against identity theft. We are protecting American consumers through the National Do-Not-Call Registry. Millions of Americans have reg- istered already, and individuals may call 1-888-382-1222 or visit the Do- 7
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