Say Good-Bye To Random Interest Rate Hikes From Credit Card Companies. The New U.S. Credit Card Act Went Into Effect This Week, And With It Some Changes To Protect Millions Of Consumers From What Some Call Predatory Practices By Credit Card Companies. One Change Is That The Companies Will Print Additional Information On Your Statement Now. Another Provision Of The New Laws Is It Will Be Harder For People Under 21 Years Of Age To Obtain A Credit Card. Consumers Now Will Have More Time To Pay Their Bills. Credit Card Companies Now Must Send Statements 21 Days Before A Payment Is Due, Rather Than 14 Days. According To Dr. White, Using Credit Wisely Is The Most Sensible Way To Build And Maintain A Solid Credit History.