NYC Consumer Czar Targets Corporate Rip-Offs

Sam Levine is New York City’s commissioner of Consumer and Worker Protection, tasked with enforcing fair business practices across the five boroughs. A former lawyer under Lina Khan at the Federal Trade Commission, Levine is enacting Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s affordability agenda by aggressively tackling corporate malfeasance and worker protection issues. He's prioritizing visibility and direct communication with New Yorkers, utilizing social media alongside traditional outreach.

Levine’s department, with roughly 400 employees, has already secured over $10 million in restitution for workers and consumers, addressing issues like hidden hotel fees, excessive credit card holds, and unfair delivery app practices. While some businesses express concern about the city’s consumer-focused approach and are advising clients to proceed cautiously, Levine aims to shift the perception that economic exploitation is unavoidable.

He plans to expand the department’s reach to address emerging challenges like AI-driven pricing and data surveillance, ensuring accountability for companies large and small. The department's budget is slated to increase from approximately $78.5 million to $18 million annually by fiscal year 2029.