Some left-leaning groups have warned regulators and attorney generals not to create a deal that protects banks against lawsuits, as they continue a year-long push to deliver help for homeowners. State, federal authorities, and some of the country’s largest banks have been dragging negotiations for a settlement over improper foreclosures for months. There could be $20 billion to $25 billion at stake, from banks and mortgage services that could help troubled homeowners modify loans and provide them with counseling, according to sources.

“Under the most recent deal, about 1 million U.S. homeowners who are underwater on their mortgage could be eligible for as much as $20,000 in relief of principal owed.” -Shaun Donovan, U.S. Housing & Urban Development Secretary.

See the full article, “Push to Help Homeowners Continues.”