Mercer Times

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin has announced the confirmation of Cari Fais as the Director of the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs. Confirmed by the New Jersey Senate, Fais is now officially leading the state's consumer protection agency after serving as Acting Director since her nomination by Governor Phil Murphy in April 2022. She becomes the first Latina to hold this position.

During her tenure as Acting Director, Fais led initiatives focused on protecting vulnerable consumers in New Jersey. These efforts included actions against predatory lending practices and securities fraud targeting elderly investors, and holding national discount retail chains accountable for deceptive practices.

Fais has also emphasized data privacy and cybersecurity. Under her leadership, the Division has acted against social media companies for harmful conduct affecting children in New Jersey, secured settlements with corporations failing to protect consumer data, and enforced reforms from technology companies regarding their data privacy practices.

Governor Murphy praised Fais's leadership: “Since her nomination, Cari Fais has demonstrated strong leadership skills and an unwavering commitment to consumer protection in New Jersey.” He added that under her direction, "the Division has been instrumental in advancing my Administration’s mission of promoting a stronger and fairer New Jersey for all."

Attorney General Platkin commended Fais's contributions: “As Acting Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs, Cari has been a valued partner... Under her leadership, the Division continues to serve as a national model in consumer protection.”

Fais leads a civil law enforcement agency with over 500 employees dedicated to safeguarding New Jersey residents through various offices and boards overseeing numerous licensed professionals and registered businesses.

Under her guidance, several significant actions have been taken. These include proposing rules for transparency in prescription drug pricing; suing TikTok and Meta over allegedly manipulative platforms; securing a $27.3 million settlement with Yellowstone Capital LLC; halting sales of unregistered securities; addressing misconduct among medical professionals; targeting industries with high consumer complaints; and proposing rules to improve healthcare quality for women of color.

“I am honored and humbled,” said Fais upon confirmation. She expressed gratitude towards Governor Murphy, the Senate, and division employees for their support.

Before leading the Division, Fais was Chief of the Opioid Abuse Prevention Unit at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for New Jersey. Her background includes investigating frauds and violent crimes as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. She holds degrees from George Washington University and Columbia Law School.