Department of Commerce

Entity: 106
Entity Type: State Government

Abstract

The Department of Business Regulation was created in 1941 to execute and administer laws regulating business activities and occupations affecting the public interest. The name of the department was changed to the Department of Commerce in 1989. The mission of the Utah Department of Commerce contributes to the success of Utah businesses, professionals and consumers by providing an environment that encourages the success of Utah businesses and professionals while protecting the rights and interests of consumers.

Biography/History Notes

The Department of Business Regulation was created in 1941 to execute and administer laws regulating business activities and occupations affecting the public interest. The name of the department was changed to the Department of Commerce in 1989. (Laws of Utah, 1941, 1st Special Session, chapter 5, pages 10-11; Laws of Utah, 1989, Chapter 225, pages 646-688). The mission of the Utah Department of Commerce contributes to the success of Utah businesses, professionals and consumers by providing an environment that encourages the success of Utah businesses and professionals while protecting the rights and interests of consumers.

The Utah Department of Commerce is the licensing and registration agency for Utah's professional and corporate community. Business registrations, professional licensing, consumer protection and education, oversight of public utilities and the monitoring of the real estate and securities industries all fall within the scope of the Department.

When created in 1941, the Department of Business Regulation was under the supervision, direction and control of the Commission of Business Regulation. Currently, the Department of Commerce is an independent department with the director appointed by the Governor.

Functions

Consumer protection
Business registration and licensing
Industry development