District of Columbia Consumer Resources
If you are living in the District of Columbia, we have a whole page of state resources if you are and looking for local information. We have compiled a comprehensive list of state resources that will point you in the direction. Whether you are looking for agencies, legal resources, educational, financial, health, or employment-related sites, we have all of the information provided in the links.
Below is a summary of what each link has to offer. Any necessary contact information is also included.
STATE AGENCIES
Department of Insurance – This department oversees insurance companies to ensure they are providing consumers with affordable services and operating in DC law. You can view news and press releases. Search health reform information and insurance rates. You can also report problems or fraud.
Public Service Commission – This department is dedicated to protecting consumers by ensuring that public utility companies are providing affordable and safe services and operating within DC law. Search different types of public utilities and find out how to increase efficiency to save money. You can compare companies. Contact the department at (202) 626-5100.
LEGAL RESOURCES
Small Claims Court - This website can provide the basics you need to know for DC’s small courts system, whether you’re filing a claim or not. View statutes, attorney requirements, and court cost limits. Learn about special provisions in DC’s law.
EDUCATION
DC Education – Read about the educational reform in DC through this site. You can also locate schools near you and view academic standards. Learn how to enroll your child in school. Social networking links are also available for you to keep up to date with educational developments in the District of Columbia.
HEALTH CARE
Department of Health – Get all of your basic health information through this site. You can read about services offered through the department. Learn about immunizations and special programs provided to residents. Discover how to get involved in the College Internship Program. View news developments from the homepage as well.
EMPLOYMENT
Department of Employment Services – Looking for a job in DC? This site can help you out. Click on the Job-Seeking Services link to start your hunt, or view special training and education opportunities. Unemployed residents can look into insurance provisions. You can contact the department at (202) 724-7000.
Contact DC Local Consumer Agencies
State and local consumer protection offices mediate issues, conduct investigations, prosecute offenders of consumer laws, license and regulate a variety of professionals, promote strong consumer protection legislation, provide educational materials and advocate in the consumer interest. To save time, call the office before sending in a written report. Ask if the office handles the type of problem you have and if forms are provided.
W. David Watts, Director
Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs
614 H Street, NW, Room 1120
Washington, DC 20001
202-727-7120
TDD/TTY: 202-727-7842
Fax: 202-727-8073
State Banking Regulators
The officials listed below regulate and supervise state-chartered banks. Many of them handle or refer problems about other types of financial institutions as well. Some also answer general questions about banking and consumer credit. If you are dealing with a federally chartered bank, check the listing of Selected Federal Agencies.
J. Anthony Romero III
Superintendent of Banking and Financial Institutions
717 14th Street, N.W.
11th Floor
Washington, DC 20005
202-727-1563
Fax: 202-727-1588
E-mail: j1romero@yahoo.com
Web site: www.ci.washington.dc.us/banking/
bankhome.htm
State Insurance Regulators
Each state has its own laws and regulations for all types of insurance, including car, homeowner and health insurance. The officials listed below enforce these laws. Many of these offices can provide you with information to help you make informed insurance buying decisions.
Patrick Kelly
Acting Commissioner, Department of Insurance
441 4th Street, NW
8th Floor North
Washington, DC 20001
202-727-8000, ext. 3007
Fax: 202-727-7940