S.C. Code Regs. 62-27 - Procedures for Handling Consumer Complaints

A. Any person having a complaint or grievance against an institution that is licensed by the Commission should make a reasonable effort to obtain satisfaction from the institution directly through the institution's established procedures. In the event that a solution cannot be reached, the person may file a written complaint with the Commission. The complaint should include any evidence bearing on the issues and documentation that a reasonable effort was made to resolve the complaint directly with the institution.

B. The Commission will review the facts as set forth in the complaint and may intervene, as appropriate, to bring the matter to a satisfactory conclusion. Such intervention shall be limited to facilitating settlement through negotiation, and shall not include legal action for any party. Notwithstanding the refund policy of the institution, if the Commission determines that the circumstances justify such action, it may require that the institution make a full or partial refund of tuition or other fees as appropriate. If, in the opinion of the Commission, there is evidence that the institution may no longer be maintaining minimum standards, the Commission may call for an investigation to determine whether the institution's license should be revoked.

C. Notwithstanding an exemption from the oversight of the Commission, the Commission may intervene on the behalf of a person filing a complaint against an institution that is exempt from the oversight of the Commission. If merited and in the interest of consumer protection and in the absence of other means by which a person may have access to an oversight entity through which he or she may obtain assistance, the Commission may intervene. In its efforts to mediate an issue, the Commission may, through its complaint procedure, investigate an institution and encourage officials of an institution to make reasonable efforts to resolve the complaint in a fair and equitable manner.

Notes

S.C. Code Regs. 62-27

Added by State Register Volume 17, Issue No. 7, eff July 23, 1993. Amended by State Register Volume 26, Issue No. 5, Part 1, eff May 24, 2002.