Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins has enacted a significant update to the county’s Consumer Protection Code. This legislative revision aims to modernize existing laws, equipping them to better tackle deceptive business practices and protect residents from contemporary scams, including those driven by online platforms and artificial intelligence.
The new law enhances the authority of county inspectors, providing them with broader investigative powers and tools for enforcing consumer protections. Key elements of the legislation include expanding prohibited business practices, imposing stronger penalties, and increasing the ability to recover losses for consumers who have been defrauded.
Jenkins emphasized the importance of this development: “This legislation is about protecting the people of Westchester County from dishonest and unethical business practices. Whether it’s hidden fees, subscription traps, or AI scams, this law ensures that our residents have a stronger layer of protection. I thank the Board of Legislators for their support and collaboration in moving this important bill forward.”
Jim Maisano, Director of the Westchester County Department of Consumer Protection, highlighted the challenges posed by modern fraud: “We’re seeing a new wave of consumer fraud, often driven by technology and online deception. This law gives us the tools we need to fight back—ensuring that Westchester consumers are not only protected but that businesses engaging in fraudulent practices are held accountable.”
The legislation was unanimously passed by the Westchester County Board of Legislators and co-authored by Legislators Colin D. Smith and David T. Imamura.
County Board Chairman Vedat Gashi praised this legislative step: “Today marks a historic step in protecting Westchester County consumers. I thank County Executive Jenkins for signing this vital law and commend the legislators for sponsoring and unanimously passing it. Together, we are defending the hard-earned money of working people.”
Legislator Colin D. Smith expressed his pride in contributing to this initiative: “As Chair of the Board’s Committee on Legislation and co-author of this bill, I’m proud to stand with County Executive Jenkins and Legislator Imamura to announce the signing of the Consumer Protection Bill into law.”
Legislator David T. Imamura noted: “Thank you, County Executive Jenkins for signing this important legislation taking a stand for Westchester consumers.”
