In response to federal legislation that was enacted late last year, the CFPB last week announced an application process for requests that areas not deemed “rural” receive that designation under federal consumer law. “Under this process, those now outside rural counties or census blocks can apply to be designated as rural and may be eligible for specific exemptions and provisions for certain mortgage lenders,” the agency said. The CFPB will accept applications starting March 31. The application process will be open through Dec. 4, 2017. “However, any application submitted after April 8, 2017, will be considered only if the bureau determines the designation decision process for that application can be completed by the sunset date of Dec. 4, 2017, based ...