The Department of Consumer Protection fights hard to ensure a fair and equitable marketplace for consumers. Recently, its inspectors went out to 63 food stores checking for outdated food items. Fines totaling more than $85,000 were assessed for 33 local food stores that failed to remove expired items from shelves. 

Another new initiative launched by the department is Senior Crime Busters.  This one-hour, elder fraud protection program provides tips on how seniors can stay safe and avoid financial exploitation. We would be glad to make a presentation to your group.  

In 2007, the department set a record for restitution it obtained on behalf of consumers. Not surprisingly, home improvement contractors are #1 on our “Top 10 List” of consumer complaints. We continue to crack down on unlicensed contractors, enforcing a new law that allows the county police to seize the assets of these contractors. In the meantime, do your homework before you hire a home improvement contractor. Find out if the contractor is licensed and avoid hiring renegade renovators. And file a complaint with us if you have a problem.

Here are some of the other things we are doing: 

• First-time home improvement applicant must now pass a written exam prior to submitting a license application.  Read our press release.  
• With the summer season here, parents and caregivers are reminded about pool safety.
• Average gas price stays above $4.46 per gallon. Go to our latest survey of gas prices to find out where to get the best price.
• Kmart was assessed a record fine of $1.56 million for violating our item-pricing law.
• Wal-Mart was fined $27,500 for violating our item-pricing law.
• Looking to join a health club? Read our tips or watch our video with tips on how to choose.
• Check out our news releases for our latest consumer alerts.

And there is so much more: Learn about the latest consumer scams; how to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft; obtain advice from housing counselors and read the latest recall and product safety news Use our guide in English or in Spanish before you choose a credit card. And for parents of students entering college, be sure to research and understand the many college financing options available to you.

Go to our A-Z Consumer for a comprehensive listing of consumer information and services as well. The Westchester County Department of Consumer Protection is here to help you. Send an e-mail or call us at (914) 995-2155 if you need assistance.