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.  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

The Department is governed by the Commission on Consumer Affairs who appoints the Administrator. Carri Grube Lybarker (professional portrait) serves as SCDCA's current Administrator.  The Administrator also receives assistance from the Council of Advisors on Consumer Credit.

SCDCA is organized into six divisions: Administration, Consumer Services, Advocacy, Public Information and Education , Identity Theft Unit and the Legal Division.

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.

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

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

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