Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the swearing in of Rohit Chopra as Secretary of California’s new Business and Consumer Services Agency, a cabinet-level body established to strengthen the state's efforts in protecting consumers, supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses, and fostering a fair, competitive economy. This new agency consolidates numerous boards, bureaus, and departments, aiming to improve coordination and enforcement across vital sectors like financial services, healthcare, and real estate.
Governor Newsom emphasized the agency's importance, stating, "California is stepping up at a moment when too many people throughout the nation are facing rising costs, hidden fees, and growing uncertainty." He added, "I am proud to welcome Rohit Chopra, who has spent his career fighting for working families, protecting consumers, and holding powerful interests accountable." The Governor noted that this move ensures consumers are protected and honest businesses can compete fairly.
Secretary Chopra expressed his gratitude, saying, "I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve as the new agency’s first secretary and advance efforts toward a fair, competitive, and entrepreneurial economy." He highlighted that the agency will "sharpen and accelerate work to promote economic growth and protect the public from abuses," addressing harmful and corrupt practices that impact Californians.
Chopra brings extensive experience, having previously served as Director of the U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and as a Commissioner of the Federal Trade Commission. In these roles, he led initiatives against junk fees, corporate misconduct, and anti-competitive behavior. The new agency, formed through Governor Newsom’s government reorganization last year, will build on California's existing consumer protection efforts, including cracking down on junk fees, increasing oversight of oil companies, and lowering prescription drug costs. It includes departments such as Alcoholic Beverage Control, Cannabis Control, Consumer Affairs, Real Estate, and Financial Protection and Innovation.
The agency plans to announce new initiatives, enforcement activities, and programs in the coming year to protect consumers, help entrepreneurs, crack down on harmful practices, and ensure new technologies benefit all Californians.