Hot Topics In Consumer Protection Advocacy Public Forum Saturday

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — The second annual Hot Topics in Consumer Protection Advocacy public forum will be held Dec. 9 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Ellicott City 50+ Center.

Featuring presentations by Maryland State Delegate Jessica Feldmark, Maryland Department of Labor Commissioner of Financial Regulation Antonio Salazar, Maryland Office of the Attorney General representative Leah Lovelace and OCP Administrator Tracy Rezvani, the forum will address the county's efforts in handling disputes between consumers and merchants, discuss recent initiatives such as the county executive’s anti-rent-gouging bill and cover new state consumer legislation regarding peddlers and solicitors, as well as towing services.

“We are one of only two counties in Maryland that has a consumer protection office, and we are fortunate to work with such esteemed partners in an event which affords our residents an opportunity to discuss their rights as a consumer in Maryland,” said Howard County Calvin Ball. “In Howard County, we are working to bring greater awareness to consumer and landlord-tenant issues. We have put dedicated staff and resources in place to help residents resolve disputes, understand their rights and provide ongoing education regarding a wide variety of consumer issues.”

The forum also will feature a resource fair with representatives from the offices of Delegate Feldmark, U.S. Congressman John Sarbanes and U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen, the CASH Campaign of Maryland, the Federal Trade Commission and various other federal, state and county government departments and offices devoted to consumer welfare.