Numerous California state and local government agencies protect, promote, and serve the interests of consumers.
The California Department of Consumer Affairs comprises 40 entities (9 bureaus, 1 programs, 24 boards, 3 committees, 1 commission, 1 office, and 1 task force) that license more than 2.3 million Californians in more than 230 occupations and professions. These entities establish minimum qualifications and levels of competency for licensure; license, register, or certify practitioners; investigate complaints; and discipline violators.
The California Department of Consumer Affairs also administers the Consumer Affairs Act (consumer information, education, complaints, and advocacy), the Arbitration Certification Program (auto warranty dispute resolution), and the Dispute Resolution Programs Act (funding of local dispute resolution programs). It helps carry out the Small Claims Act by publishing materials for those who administer and use the Small Claims Court, and by training small claims advisors and attorneys who serve as judges.
Other state agencies that serve consumers include the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (unlawful employment and housing discrimination), the Department of Real Estate (licensing of real estate brokers and sales agents), the Department of Corporations (licensing of personal finance companies, and a new service dedicated to combat investment fraud on the internet), and the Department of Insurance (licensing and conduct of insurance companies).
Consumers are also assisted by a variety of state and local law enforcement agencies that enforce the state's laws on false and deceptive advertising, unfair and deceptive trade practices, unfair competition, and other laws. These agencies include the California Attorney General, the District Attorneys of most counties, the City Attorneys of San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego counties, and county consumer affairs departments.