Maryland Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland Section 4-105

      The board shall have the following duties, powers, and authority:

      (a)      To receive and investigate complaints and initiate its own investigation of deceptive or unfair trade practices against consumers;

      (b)      To report to appropriate governmental agencies having jurisdiction over consumer protection matters any information concerning violation of any consumer protection law;

      (c)      To present the interest of consumers before administrative and regulatory agencies and legislative bodies;

      (d)      To assist, advise, and cooperate with the better business bureaus of the area and local, State, and federal agencies and officials to protect and promote the interest of the consumer public;

      (e)      To assist, develop, and conduct programs of consumer education and information through public hearings, meetings, publications, or other materials prepared for distribution to the consumer public of the area;

      (f)      To undertake activities to encourage local business and industry to maintain high standards of honesty, fair business practices, and public responsibility in the production, promotion, and sale of consumer goods and services and in the extension of credit;

      (g)      To exercise and perform any other functions and duties consistent with the purposes or provisions of this title which may be necessary or appropriate to protect and promote the welfare of county consumers;

      (h)      To render annual reports as to the number of complaints filed, their nature and disposition, and the other relevant activities of the board undertaken during the previous year to the Council.