  The Marin County Department of Agriculture, Weights and Measures works to ensure a fairer marketplace 52 weeks a year. The 2024 Consumer Protection Report outlines the efforts of the department’s Weights and Measures (W&M) division and ensures consumers get what they pay for every day, at every commercial transaction.Even though W&M is one of the smallest departments in the County, with just over three full-time inspection staff, it logged more than 6,000 hours last year working to ensure fairness at the register and trust at the pump. That fact and more will be part of a public presentation to the Marin County Board of Supervisors on May 6.In 2024, W&M conducted 9,549 inspections at 411 local businesses. Most businesses met standards and inspectors found that the rate of overcharges dropped from 4.3% in 2023 to 3.0% in 2024. A total of 220 items were sold at higher prices than advertised last year, highlighting the need for continued inspections, outreach, and accountability.“It is against the law to overcharge someone in California. There is nothing more basic or equitable than to get what you pay for,” said Department Director Joe Deviney. “Every consumer deserves these pricing protections. Small overcharges add up, especially for families already facing financial pressure. We are proud to do this work to protect everyone in our community.”A huge win for consumers this year was W&M’s investigation of Safeway’s systemic pricing issues, including problems with digital coupons. These investigations, spurred on by consumer complaints about the “Safeway for U” app, found consistent overcharges. A statewide lawsuit led by the Marin County DA’s office resulted in a $3.9 million settlement and a new price accuracy guarantee to protect consumers when overcharges happen.Another noticeable trend last year was an increase in consumer complaints received. In 2024, the department investigated 74 complaints, a 29% increase from 2023; this is the second consecutive year W&M has seen an increase in consumer complaints.“This truly reflects that more people have learned there is a County department that they can call and rely on to investigate their concerns about being overcharged,” Deviney said.Reporting tools are available online and through a multilingual consumer protection hotline, 415-473-7888.The AWM website has additional information to help ensure consumers are paying the correct price at retail outlets. |
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