Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation

Dear FDIC: I write in opposition to the proposed loosening of CRA requirements for financial institutions. I work in the affordable housing field, which has been woefully neglected WITH CRA. A reduction in CRA requirements will result in a reduction in the production of much-needed affordable housing across our country. Having just visited Baltimore, I can see that a lot more than CRA will be needed to really bring back some of the deteriorated neighborhoods there and elsewhere. Withdrawal of the proposed rule would be the best solution for this bad idea. Sincerely, Richard S. Whiting, 24 Beaver Rd., Auburn, ME. 04210-8725