History and Purpose

Established in 1974 by the Consumer Protection Code (Code), Sections 37-1-101 et seq., the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs (SCDCA or Department) is the state consumer protection agency.  From its inception until May 19, 2026, the Department was governed by the Commission on Consumer Affairs. On that date, Governor McMaster signed a law that dissolved the Commission and placed the Department within the Governor’s cabinet. 

SCDCA is the administrator and enforcer of the Code, as well as other regulatory statutes outside the Code. In this capacity, the Department helps to formulate and modify consumer laws, policies and regulations; regulates the consumer credit marketplace; resolves complaints arising out of the production, promotion or sale of consumer goods or services in South Carolina, whether or not credit is involved; and promotes a healthy competitive business climate with mutual confidence between buyers and sellers.

Overall, the agency protects consumers while giving due regard to those businesses acting in a fair and honest manner. The Department accomplishes its mission by: 1.) acting as an effective regulator, 2.) providing complaint mediation services that are unmatched at both state and federal levels,  3.) saving millions for both consumers and small businesses through insurance and utility rate filing intervention, 4.) serving as an educational portal for consumers and businesses alike, and 5) informing the public on effective ways of preventing and mitigating identity theft situations.

Organization

Effective May 19, 2026, the Department became a cabinet agency.  Previously, the Commission on Consumer Affairs served as SCDCA’s policymaking body and appointed the Administrator.  Administrators appointed by the Commission are:

• 1974 – Irvin D. “Pete” Parker
• 1981 – Steven Hamm
• 1995 - Phillip Porter
• 2002 – Brandolyn Thomas Pinkston
• 2011- Carri Grube Lybarker (professional portrait)

The Administrator leads SCDCA and receives assistance from an advisory board, the Council of Advisors on Consumer Credit. The Council is made up of consumers and members of industries regulated by SCDCA.

The Department accomplishes its mission through six divisions: Administration, Consumer Services, Advocacy, Public Information and Education, Identity Theft Unit and the Legal Division. 

As a small agency with 48 employees and one office location, partnerships with local, state and federal agencies, as well as private organizations, have contributed to the Department’s successes and an award-winning legacy.  The dedication of current and past staff and Council of Advisors Members, former Commissioners and others who have come alongside the Department to ensure that consumers are protected, and scrupulous businesses flourish, is invaluable.

For more information on SCDCA's operations, feel free to view the reports below or contact us.

Agency Reports

Accountability Reports - Annual report released to the Governor, General Assembly and public showing key financial and performance measures.

Transparency Reports - Monthly and annual reports to promote financial accountability and transparency in state government.

50th Anniversary (PDF) - A journal highlighting the Department’s efforts to educate South Carolinians about consumer rights and responsibilities and those who’ve made their mark at SCDCA. 

40th Anniversary (PDF) - A retrospective outlining the evolution of the Department and its impact on South Carolina's consumer marketplace from 1975-2015.

30th Anniversary (PDF) - A journal consisting of perspectives from consumer advocates, public servants and industry members to commemorate the Department's 30th anniversary.

View reports issued by DCA that examine consumer credit trends, including the State of Credit in SC.