Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins has signed into law an update to the County’s Consumer Protection Code, modernizing the legislation to better address deceptive business practices and protect residents from 21st-century scams—including online and AI-driven fraud.
The new law gives County inspectors broader authority and new tools to investigate complaints and enforce consumer protections. Among its key provisions are the expansion of prohibited business practices, stronger penalties, and increased power to recoup losses for defrauded consumers.
Jenkins said: “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.”
Westchester County Department of Consumer Protection Director Jim Maisano said: “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 passed unanimously by the Westchester County Board of Legislators and was co-authored by Legislators Colin D. Smith and David T. Imamura.
County Board Chairman Vedat Gashi said:“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. When businesses use hidden fees and subscription traps to drain bank accounts, they exploit our residents, seniors, and small businesses. We are proud to send a unified message: Westchester won’t tolerate companies that profit by preying on the vulnerable.”
Legislator Colin D. Smith said:“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. This critical legislation enhances protections for Westchester residents and small businesses, addressing modern threats like AI-driven scams and misleading subscription practices. Our community deserves transparency and strong safeguards — and this new law provides exactly that by modernizing and reinforcing consumer rights to prevent abuse.”
Legislator David T. Imamura said:“Thank you, County Executive Jenkins for signing this important legislation taking a stand for Westchester consumers. When the federal government effectively halts its consumer protection laws, Westchester County is stepping up to the plate to fill the gap. This legislation not only strengthens the County’s consumer protection laws, it enhances the County’s ability to enforce those laws.”
