In a move to crack down on dishonest business practices and protect local consumers, Suffolk Legislator Jim Mazzarella has introduced a new bill that significantly strengthens the county’s licensing enforcement laws for contractors and other regulated professions.
His “Protecting Suffolk Consumers” resolution seeks to amend Chapter 563 of the Suffolk County Code, enhancing the tools used to prevent unlicensed or previously penalized individuals from continuing to operate unlawfully.
“While most professionals in Suffolk County conduct business with integrity,” Mazzarella said, “a small but dangerous minority continue to exploit consumers—especially the elderly and vulnerable—by operating without a license or in violation of prior penalties. This legislation sends a clear message: there will be consequences.”
The bill proposes the following key reforms:
- Stronger licensing procedures to close loopholes and prevent repeat offenders from reentering the marketplace under new business names.
- Increased penalties for violations under Chapters 563 and 564, which govern consumer protection and contractor licensing.
- Expansion of the “Registry of Unscrupulous County Licensed Professionals,” a public database that flags individuals who have lost their licenses due to serious violations or criminal conduct.
“We’re not just going after bad actors—we’re standing up for the hardworking, honest contractors who follow the law and serve their customers with pride,” Mazzarella said.
The Suffolk County Department of Labor, Licensing & Consumer Affairs is expected to work closely with the Legislature on enforcement and outreach.
The resolution is scheduled for a public hearing later this summer.