The new financial reform law, known as the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and recently signed into law by President Barack Obama, isn't exactly a page-turner. But hidden within its thousands of clauses are seven measures that could benefit consumers long after debate over the bill is a distant memory.

From financial literacy initiatives to help for distressed homeowners, these hidden gems address a broad range of consumer issues. While they probably won't have the impact of the more-trumpeted aspects of the law like the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, they may just help a few consumers stay afloat during the next big economic downturn.