New York City, January 16, 2026
Mayor Zohran Mamdani has taken significant steps toward consumer protection in New York City by appointing Samuel Levine as Commissioner of the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection. The city aims to tackle deceptive practices, such as ‘junk fees’ and misleading subscription models. With executive orders signed to prioritize investigations, the administration hopes to foster ethical business practices and enhance consumer trust while ensuring a level playing field for legitimate businesses.
New York City
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has initiated aggressive consumer protection enforcement, appointing Samuel Levine as Commissioner of the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP).
Levine, formerly head of the Federal Trade Commission’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, is tasked with leading the city’s efforts to combat deceptive business practices, including “junk fees” and misleading subscription models.
On January 5, 2026, Mayor Mamdani signed executive orders directing the DCWP to prioritize investigations and enforcement actions against these practices. At a press conference, Commissioner Levine emphasized the department’s proactive stance, warning businesses to “Do not wait for a subpoena.”
New York City continues to demonstrate its commitment to protecting consumers while fostering an environment conducive to entrepreneurial endeavors. The new initiatives led by Mayor Mamdani and Commissioner Levine aim to enhance consumer trust in the marketplace, ensuring that ethical businesses can thrive amid stricter regulations against deceptive practices.
While robust consumer protections are essential in maintaining a fair marketplace, it is crucial to consider how these measures impact small businesses. By clamping down on “junk fees” and misleading subscription models, the administration hopes to level the playing field, allowing legitimate businesses to flourish without the burden of unethical competition.
Strengthening Consumer Protections
The Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) operates under the New York City Consumer Protection Law, which empowers the department to tackle misleading trade practices across various sectors. This proactive approach ensures that even emerging businesses can operate in an honest environment, promoting fair customer relationships.
Broad Authority for DCWP
With the authority granted by the New York City Consumer Protection Law, the DCWP can impose civil penalties, seek injunctive relief, and pursue restitution for consumers affected by deceptive practices. Notably, these actions can be taken without requiring proof of actual consumer injury, which reflects the administration’s commitment to consumer interests.
Impact on Local Businesses
As businesses operating in New York City brace for increased scrutiny and enforcement actions, many local entrepreneurs are adjusting their practices to align with the new expectations. Small businesses, which are often heralded as the backbone of the economy, may find opportunities to bolster their reputation and customer loyalty by prioritizing ethical business practices.
A Balanced Perspective
While the initiative to increase consumer protection is commendable, it is equally important to consider the responsibilities that come with this authority. The focus on accountability should coexist with a supportive framework that allows businesses to thrive and innovate. Striking a balance between regulations and business freedom can enhance the city’s economic landscape.
Conclusion
The Mamdani administration’s consumer protection measures have the potential to strengthen the business environment in New York City. By addressing deceptive practices head-on, city leaders aim to create a marketplace where consumers can shop with confidence, and entrepreneurs can focus on what they do best: delivering value to their customers. Supporting local businesses not only ensures their sustainability but also contributes to the vibrancy of the New York economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the role of Samuel Levine as Commissioner of the DCWP?
Samuel Levine, formerly head of the Federal Trade Commission’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, has been appointed as Commissioner of the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) in New York City. He is responsible for leading the city’s efforts to combat deceptive business practices, including “junk fees” and misleading subscription models.
What actions has Mayor Mamdani taken regarding consumer protection?
On January 5, 2026, Mayor Zohran Mamdani signed executive orders directing the DCWP to prioritize investigations and enforcement actions against deceptive business practices, such as “junk fees” and misleading subscription models. Commissioner Levine emphasized the department’s proactive stance, warning businesses to “Do not wait for a subpoena.”
What authority does the DCWP have under the New York City Consumer Protection Law?
The DCWP has broad authority under the New York City Consumer Protection Law to address deceptive and unconscionable trade practices across various sectors, including goods, services, credit, and debt collection. The law allows for civil penalties, injunctive relief, restitution, and public settlements without requiring proof of actual consumer injury.
How will these actions affect businesses operating in New York City?
Businesses operating in New York City, both with physical storefronts and those serving city consumers online, should anticipate increased scrutiny and enforcement actions. The Mamdani administration’s focus on consumer protection signifies a robust approach to holding corporations accountable for practices that harm consumers.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Appointment of Samuel Levine | Former FTC Bureau of Consumer Protection head appointed as DCWP Commissioner. |
| Executive Orders | Mayor Mamdani signed orders directing DCWP to prioritize investigations into deceptive business practices. |
| DCWP Authority | Broad powers under New York City Consumer Protection Law to address deceptive trade practices. |
| Impact on Businesses | Increased scrutiny and enforcement actions for businesses operating in New York City. |
Now Happening on X
- @ZohranKMamdani (December 23, 2025): Welcomes Samuel Levine as the new Commissioner of the DCWP, highlighting his FTC experience fighting predatory practices in education, housing, privacy, and finance. View on X
- @linamkhan (December 22, 2025): Expresses excitement over Samuel Levine’s appointment to lead New York City’s DCWP under Mayor Mamdani, noting his work against corporate landlords, worker fraud, and other predatory tactics at the FTC. View on X
- @NYCMayor (January 5, 2026): Announces a crackdown on junk fees in gyms, concerts, and more, which harm New Yorkers and disadvantage small businesses. View on X
- @MorePerfectUS (January 5, 2026): Reports on the DCWP’s post-executive order outreach to businesses for compliance and immediate enforcement against deceptive practices. View on X
- @NewYorkStateAG (January 5, 2026): Joins Mayor Mamdani and DCWP leaders to reaffirm commitment to ending junk fees and subscription traps, making New York more affordable. View on X
- @RossBarkan (January 5, 2026): Covers Mayor Mamdani’s Queens announcement on cracking down on junk fees, drawing parallels to Lina Khan’s consumer protection approach. View on X
- @helloDCWP (January 10, 2026): Shares Commissioner Levine’s interview on cracking down on deceptive practices via executive orders to protect New Yorkers from corporate rip-offs. View on X
- @DianaCialino (January 16, 2026): Highlights Commissioner Levine’s vow for aggressive consumer protection action, positioning DCWP as the new enforcer against business abuses. View on X
- @FTC_Watch (January 13, 2026): Discusses Mayor Mamdani’s initiative to eliminate junk fees and subscription traps in New York City. View on X
- @NatLawProperty (January 15, 2026): Reports on New York City’s executive orders targeting junk fees and misleading subscription practices. View on X
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