§ 11-6A. Discriminatory, predatory, or abusive lending practices.*

A consumer who is concerned about a potentially discriminatory, predatory, or abusive lending practice in the County may file a written request for assistance with the Officer of Consumer Protection.

(a) Within 20 business days after receiving a written request with all supporting documentation, the Office must review the request.

(b) Upon reviewing the request, the Office must either:

(i) advise the consumer to file a complaint with the Office if a potential violation of Chapter 11 or Chapter 27 exists;

(ii) assist the consumer in filing a complaint with the appropriate government office or agency that has jurisdiction; or

(iii) provide the consumer with information, education, counseling, or a referral to an appropriate outside agency, group, or organization.

(c) The Office, in assisting a consumer with filing a complaint, may consult with any appropriate federal, state, county, or quasi-governmental office or agency. If the Office assists a consumer in filing a complaint with another agency, the Office must contact the appropriate agency within 45 business days after the referral to determine the status of the complaint, and must forward this information to the consumer.

(d) The Office, in conducting activities to identify and educate consumers about discriminatory, predatory, or abusive lending practices, may work with non-government organizations. (, § 3.)

*Editor’s note—Section 11-6A was added by 2005 L.M.C., ch. 29, § 3 (Bill 36-04). However, in American Financial Services, et. al. v. Montgomery County, (Civil Action No. 269105), the Court declared Bill 36- 04 “null and void” by order dated 11/30/06.