BOISE, Idaho (Legal Newsline) - Idaho collected more than $24 million in penalties and costs during fiscal year 2015, said Idaho Attorney General Lawrence Wasden on Aug. 10.
Wasden said the state's Consumer Protection Division recovered the funds in consumer-related enforcement actions, and more than $1 million was recovered in restitution after his office successfully defended the state's tobacco master settlement agreement.
“The takeaway from this year’s report is that it doesn’t matter if you’ve been harmed by one of the nation’s biggest companies or a small, local business,” Wasden said. “My Consumer Protection Division is dedicated to looking out for all consumer interests and making sure the marketplace in Idaho remains fair and competitive.”
A total of 648 complaints were mediated during the fiscal year, and about 11,700 contacts with consumers were logged by attorneys and staff in the division, Wasden said. It is the 23rd consecutive year the Attorney General's Office recovered more funds than appropriated by lawmakers.
Motor vehicle complaints topped the list during the 12-month period, although the number of complaints fell to 100 compared to 109 in fiscal year 2014, Wasden said.
“This year’s report shows once again my commitment to making sure Idaho consumers are treated fairly,” Wasden said. “Protecting consumers has been, and will remain, one of my top priorities as attorney general.”