Bankcard Holders, founded in 1980, campaigns for lower rates.

The law is the first of its kind in the nation, said Elgie Holstein, director of Bankcard Holders of America, a consumer group.

Bankcard Holders has a brochure and a wallet-size card outlining consumer rights.

When she heard about a debt reduction program offered by the Bankcard Holders of America, a nonprofit organization, she decided to give it a try.

For a copy of the list call Bankcard Holders at 1-800-237-1800 (cost: $4).

Ruth Susswein, executive director of Bankcard Holders of America, a nonprofit group with 60,000 members, says people frequently carry 8 to 10 cards.

But after 90 days, the protections lapse, Ms. Susswein of Bankcard Holders points out.

Bankcard Holders of America spent six months going through the various ads for secured cards and has prepared a list of the best ones.

Bankcard Holders publishes a list (cost: $5) of issuers with the lowest rates.

Bankcard Holders sells a list of banks offering secured cards.