Governor Bob Taft has proclaimed April as Saving and Investing Education Month in the State of Ohio. This observance month, which is part of a national investor education campaign, is designed to encourage consumers to save, invest wisely, and protect themselves against fraudulent schemes.

This year’s campaign is focusing on baby boomers and young people. It is designed to help raise financial IQs and protect Ohio residents against the growing problem of securities fraud.

"Investor education has never been more important," said Ohio Securities Commissioner Thomas E. Geyer. "Today we are a nation of investors. While a generation ago less than 20 percent of households were invested in the stock market, today nearly half of all households own stock."

During Saving and Investing Education Month, representatives from the Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Securities will be making approximately 70 presentations throughout the state. The presentations will be made to community service organizations as well as at elementary, middle and high schools.

The Division of Securities Investor Protection Hotline gives Ohioans the opportunity to "investigate before you invest." Ohioans can call the hotline at 800-788-1194 to see if their securities salesperson and brokerage firm are licensed to sell securities in Ohio and if there are any disciplinary records against them. Another feature of the hotline permits prospective investors to check on whether a security is properly registered with the state of Ohio. Individuals who believe they are victims of securities fraud can also request a complaint form by calling the hotline.

Nationally, the campaign will kick off with a panel discussion at the National Press Club in Washington on Tuesday, April 4 about how financially well- or ill-prepared baby boomers are for retirement. Statistics indicate that while nearly three-quarters of Americans are saving for retirement most have little idea of how much money they will need to replace income when they retire. "With Americans living longer than ever, retirement security is a serious issue," said Commissioner Geyer.

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The Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Securities promotes an honest and fair securities market where individuals and businesses can raise capital and investors can expect a fair return on their investment. Other Commerce divisions enforce regulations regarding industrial compliance, financial institutions, real estate, liquor, auctioneers, and unclaimed funds, among others. The department's internet address is www.com.state.oh.us