Columbia Heights News - Washington, DC - New Era For Consumer Protection

Councilmember Jim Graham

Councilmember Jim Graham has been serving Ward One for the DC Council since 1999. Ward One is the most diverse wards in the District of Columbia and it faces unique issues. Councilmember Graham has worked tirelessly as an advocate for the diverse interests of all the residents of Ward One.

In this section we will be posting announcements made directly by Councilmember Graham. Learn how to contact Councilmember Graham or his staff here.

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New Era For Consumer Protection

Monday, 06 February 2006

Washington, DC - Councilmember Jim Graham (D-Ward One) today joined Mayor Anthony Williams and the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs in announcing that agency's new Office of Consumer Protection. As chairman of the Council committee that oversees DCRA, Councilmember Graham added $1 million to the agency's budget for consumer protection this year.

"We have extremely strong consumer protection laws in the District," said Councilmember Graham. "But the Council hasn't funded their enforcement in more than 10 years. DCRA went from 50 consumer protection employees down to zero. This action puts 'Consumer' back in 'Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.'"

The Office of Consumer Protection will have 8 full-time employees in its first year, focusing most on home improvement and car repair. It will be located in the Business License section so the agency can take action against the licenses of businesses if needed.

To check the business license of a home improvement contractor or a car repair shop, residents can visit the "Consumer Corner" at dcra.dc.gov or call (202) 442-4400.