Federal Trade Commission

http://www.ftc.gov

The Federal Trade Commission was created in 1914 to combat monopolistic business trusts. Since then, the agency's mission has expanded to represent consumers and businesses against fraudulent, unfair and anti-competitive activities. The commission is led by five appointed commissioners. Terms are staggered. The law prohibits more than three commissioners from holding the same political affiliation. The FTC's current Chairman is Jon Leibowitz. Other commissioners are William Kovacic, J. Thomas Rosch, Edith Ramirez, and Julie Brill.

The agency's responsibilities are divided among three bureaus:

The Bureau of Consumer Protection guards consumers from misleading and fraudulent business activities, enforcing federal consumer affair laws and FTC regulations. Lawyers from the agency may pressure businesses to comply with FTC rules and federal laws, or pursue violations in federal court.

The bureau administers the National Do Not Call Registry (donotcall.gov). It also leads the fight against identity theft, compiling cases and advocating for new consumer protections.

The Bureau of Competition upholds federal antitrust laws, investigating proposed corporate mergers and other activities for anti-competitive and monopolistic behavior. The bureau handles civil enforcement of antitrust regulation, coordinating with the Department of Justice in both civil and criminal cases.

The Bureau of Economics supports the other two bureaus with economic analysis, providing evidence for FTC investigations. The bureau also researches the impact of regulatory actions by the FTC and other governmental bodies. Additionally, the bureau offers policy advice to Congress, the Executive Branch, and the public concerning business regulation.

ISSUES:
Identity Theft
Consumer Fraud and Scams
Investing
Unfair and predatory lending
Antitrust and monopolies
Corporate mergers

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