Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation - Boston, MA

Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR)

Protecting Massachusetts Consumers

The Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR) is the state agency dedicated to protecting and empowering consumers through advocacy and education. Located in the McCormack Building at 1 Ashburton Place, it oversees five major regulatory agencies: the Division of Banks, Division of Insurance, Division of Occupational Licensure, Division of Standards, and the Department of Telecommunications and Cable. Together, these agencies ensure a fair marketplace ⚖️ by enforcing state laws and regulating specific industries.

• Lemon Laws: Administers the Lemon Law Arbitration program for consumers who have purchased defective vehicles.
• Home Improvement: Manages the registration of Home Improvement Contractors (HIC) and the Guaranty Fund for homeowner compensation.
• Data Privacy: Enforces data breach notification laws and educates businesses on information security.
• Consumer Hotline: Operates a direct line to assist residents with complaints and inquiries about regulated industries.

Office Access

The office is situated in the John W. McCormack State Office Building. Visitors must pass through security screening 🛂, including metal detectors and bag checks, upon entering the lobby. While the OCABR administrative office handles policy and oversight, many specific consumer complaints (like utility disputes or banking issues) are referred to the specialized divisions under its umbrella. The office also provides extensive educational resources to help consumers make informed financial and purchasing decisions.