The Federal Register

Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request

Mon, Dec 1 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The FTC plans to conduct a consumer study to research alternatives to existing lamp (i.e., light bulb) labeling requirements. This study is part of the Commission's rulemaking proceeding to examine the effectiveness of current light bulb package labeling as directed by Congress. Before conducting this research, the FTC is seeking public comments on the proposed study as part of its compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA'').

Granting of Request for Early Termination of the Waiting Period Under the Premerger Notification Rules

Mon, Dec 1 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Section 7A of the Clayton Act, 15 U.S.C. 18a, as added by Title II of the HartScott Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, requires persons contemplating certain mergers or acquisitions to give the Federal Trade Commission and the Assistant Attorney General advance notice and to wait designated periods before consummation of such plans. Section 7A(b)(2) of the Act permits the agencies, in individual cases, to terminate this waiting period prior to its expiration and requires that notice of this action be published in the Federal Register.

The following transactions were granted early termination of the waiting period provided by law and the premerger notification rules. The grants were made by the Federal Trade Commission and the Assistant Attorney General for the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice. Neither agency intends to take any action with respect to these proposed acquisitions during the applicable waiting period. Trans No. Acquiring Acquire

Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising

Fri, Nov 28 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission (``FTC'' or ``Commission'') is seeking public comment on proposed revisions to its Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising (``the Guides'').

Public Hearings Concerning the Evolving Intellectual Property Marketplace

Fri, Nov 21 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission will hold a series of public hearings beginning on December 5, 2008, in Washington, D.C., to explore the evolving market for intellectual property (IP). The hearings will examine changes in intellectual property law, patentrelated business models, and new learning regarding the operation of the IP marketplace since the FTC issued its October 2003 report, To Promote Innovation: The Proper Balance of Competition and Patent Law and Policy (the FTC IP Report).\1\ Changes and proposed changes in the law, together with evolving business models for buying, selling and licensing IP, could significantly influence a patent's economic value and the operation of the IP marketplace. The hearings will consider the impact of these changes on innovation, competition and consumer welfare.
\1\ Federal Trade Commission, To Promote Innovation: The Proper Balance of Competition and Patent Law and Policy (October 2003), available at (

Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request

Thu, Nov 20 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The information collection requirements described below will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') for review, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA''). The FTC is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend through March 31, 2012 the current PRA clearances for information collection requirements contained in four consumer financial regulations promulgated by the Federal Reserve Board and enforced by the Commission. Those clearances expire on March 31, 2009.

Granting of Request for Early Termination of the Waiting Period Under the Premerger Notification Rules

Mon, Nov 17 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Section 7A of the Clayton Act, 15 U.S.C. 18a, as added by Title II of the HartScottRodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, requires persons contemplating certain mergers or acquisitions to give the Federal Trade Commission and the Assistant Attorney General advance notice and to wait designated periods before consummation of such plans. Section 7A(b)(2) of the Act permits the agencies, in individual cases, to terminate this waiting period prior to its expiration and requires that notice of this action be published in the Federal Register.

Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

Thu, Nov 13 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The information collection requirements described below will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') for review, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA''). The FTC is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend through January 31, 2012, the current PRA clearance for information sought through compulsory process orders to a combined ten or more of the largest cigarette manufacturers and smokeless tobacco manufacturers in order to obtain from them information including, among other things, their sales and marketing expenditures. The current clearance expires on January 31, 2009.

Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

Wed, Nov 5 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The FTC intends to conduct consumer survey research to advance its understanding of the experiences of consumers who interact with consumer reporting agencies (``CRAs'') following an incident of identity theft. The results of this research will inform and guide the Commission's future enforcement and education efforts. This is the second of two notices required under the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA''), and the Commission seeks additional public comments on its proposed consumer research before requesting Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') review of, and clearance for, the collection of information discussed herein.

Consumer Benefits and Harms: Distinguishing Resale Price Maintenance that Benefits Consumers From Resale Price

Wed, Nov 5 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission (``FTC'' or ``Commission'') will hold a series of public Workshop sessions at one or more locations to explore how best to distinguish between uses of resale price maintenance (RPM)\1\
[[Page 65857]]
that benefit consumers and those that do not, for purposes of enforcing Section 1 of the Sherman Act, 15 U.S.C. Sec. 1, and Section 5 of the Federal Trade Commission Act, 15 U.S.C. Sec. 45 (hereinafter ``Sections 1 and 5''). Among other things, the Workshops will examine when and whether particular market facts or conditions make it more or less likely that the use of RPM will be procompetitive or neutral, and when or whether RPM may harm competition and consumers.
\1\ RPM is typically an agreement between a manufacturer and retailer setting the prices at which the retailer will resell the manufacturer's goods to consumers. If the agreement requires the retailer to sell only at or above the price established by the manufacturer, it is said to be minimum RPM. Conver

Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Extension

Fri, Oct 31 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The information collection requirements described below will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') for review, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act. The FTC is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend through February 28, 2012, the current PRA clearances for information collection requirements contained in four product labeling rules enforced by the Commission. Those clearances expire on February 28, 2009.

Granting of Request for Early Termination of the Waiting Period Under the Premerger Notification Rules

Fri, Oct 31 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Reed Elsevier NV, Reed Elsevier PLC, Reed Elsevier Group plc, Reed Elsevier Inc., ChoicePoint Inc., ChoicePoint

Mon, Oct 27 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The consent agreement in this matter settles alleged violations of federal law prohibiting unfair or deceptive acts or practices or unfair methods of competition. The attached Analysis to Aid Public Comment describes both the allegations in the draft complaint and the terms of the consent orderembodied in the consent agreementthat would settle these allegations.

Appliance Labeling Rule

Thu, Oct 23 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Commission is issuing this Notice to make technical corrections to the Appliance Labeling Rule. The corrections are necessary to ensure that amendatory language published on December 28, 2006 and scheduled to become effective on January 1, 2009 is consistent with other Rule amendments that have been codified since 2006 and are already effective.

Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request; Extension

Tue, Oct 21 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The information collection requirements described below will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') for review, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA''). The FTC is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend through October 31, 2011, the current PRA clearance for information collection requirements contained in the FTC rule on ``Labeling and Advertising of Home Insulation'' (``Rvalue Rule'' or ``Rule''). The current clearance expires on October 31, 2008.

Dick's Sporting Goods, Inc.; Analysis of Proposed Consent Order to Aid Public Comment

Tue, Oct 21 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Granting of Request for Early Termination of the Waiting Period Under the Premerger Notification Rules

Mon, Oct 20 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Granting of Request for Early Termination of the Waiting Period Under the Premerger Notification Rules

Thu, Oct 16 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Section 7A of the Clayton Act, 15 U.S.C. 18a, as added by Title H of the HartScott Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, requires persons contemplating certain mergers or acquisitions to give the Federal Trade Commission and the Assistant Attorney General advance notice and to wait designated periods before consummation of such plans. Section 7A(b)(2) of the Act permits the agencies, in individual cases, to terminate this waiting period prior to its expiration and requires that notice of this action be published in the Federal Register.

Hexion LLC and Huntsman Corporation; Analysis of Proposed Consent Order to Aid Public Comment

Wed, Oct 15 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request; Extension

Tue, Oct 14 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The information collection requirements described below will be
[[Page 60697]]
submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') for review, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA''). The FTC is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend through October 31, 2011, the current PRA clearance for information collection requirements contained in its Trade Regulation Rule on Disclosure Requirements and Prohibitions Concerning Franchising (``Franchise Rule''). That clearance expires on October 31, 2008.

Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

Tue, Oct 14 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The information collection requirements described below will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') for review, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act. The FTC is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend through October 31, 2011, the current OMB clearance for the information collection requirements pertaining to the Commission's administrative activities. That clearance expires on October 31, 2008, and consists of: (a) applications to the Commission, including applications and notices contained in the Commission's Rules of Practice (primarily Parts I, II, and IV); (b) the FTC's consumer complaint systems; (c) the FTC's program evaluation activities and; (d) the FTC's Applicant Background Form.

Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request

Tue, Oct 14 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The FTC plans to conduct a study to examine consumer perception of environmental marketing claims. This activity is part of the Commission's regulatory review of the Guides for the Use of Environmental Marketing Claims (``Green Guides'' or ``Guides''). Before gathering this information, the FTC is seeking public comments on the proposed study. Comments will be considered before the FTC submits a request for Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') review under the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA'').

Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Extension

Fri, Oct 10 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The FTC is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend through February 28, 2012, the current Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA'') clearance for information collection requirements contained in its regulations under the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (``FPLA''). That clearance expires on February 28, 2009.

Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request; Extension

Thu, Oct 9 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The information collection requirements described below will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') for review, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA''). The FTC is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend through October 31, 2011, the current PRA clearance for information collection requirements contained in the Commission's Business Opportunity Rule (``Rule''). The current clearance expires on October 31, 2008.

Rules of Practice

Tue, Oct 7 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The FTC is proposing to amend Parts 3 and 4 of its Rules of Practice, in order to further expedite its adjudicative proceedings, improve the quality of adjudicative decision making, and clarify the respective roles of the Administrative Law Judge (``ALJ'') and the Commission in Part 3 proceedings.

Granting of Request for Early Termination of the Waiting Period Under the Premerger Notification Rules

Mon, Oct 6 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Bioque Technologies, Inc., et al.; Analysis of Proposed Consent Order to Aid Public Comment

Fri, Oct 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Daryl C. Jenks, d/b/a Premium Essiac Tea 4less; Analysis of Proposed Consent Order to Aid Public Comment

Fri, Oct 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Holly A. Bacon, d/b/a Cleansing Time Pro; Analysis of Proposed Consent Order to Aid Public Comment

Fri, Oct 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

Wed, Oct 1 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

Mon, Sep 29 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Granting of Request for Early Termination of the Waiting Period Under the Premerger Notification Rules

Fri, Sep 26 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Used Motor Vehicle Trade Regulation Rule

Thu, Sep 25 2008 11:00:00 GMT

On July 21, 2008, the Federal Trade Commission (``FTC'' or ``Commission'') published a Federal Register document soliciting public comments in connection with its review of the Used Motor Vehicle Trade Regulation Rule (``Used Car Rule'' or ``Rule''). The document stated that comments must be received by September 19, 2008. In response to a request to extend the comment period received on September 12, 2008, the Commission has determined to reopen and extend the comment period until November 19, 2008.

Granting of Request for Early Termination of the Waiting Period Under the Premerger Notification Rules

Wed, Sep 17 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Section 7A of the Clayton Act, 15 U.S.C. 18a, as added by Title II of the HartScottRodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, requires persons contemplating certain mergers or acquisitions to give the Federal Trade Commission and the Assistant Attorney General advance notice and to wait designated periods before consummation of such plans. Section 7A(b)(2) of the Act permits the agencies, in individual cases, to terminate this waiting period prior to its expiration and requires that notice of this action be published in the Federal Register.

The following transactions were granted early termination of the waiting period provided by law and the premerger notification rules. The grants were made by the Federal Trade Comission and the Assistant Attorney General for the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice. Neither agency intends to take any action with respect to these proposed acquisitions during the applicable waiting period. [[Page 53874]]
Trans No. Acquiring

Prohibitions on Market Manipulation and False Information in Subtitle B of Title VIII of The Energy Independence and

Tue, Sep 16 2008 11:00:00 GMT

In a Federal Register notice published on August 19, 2008, the Federal Trade Commission (``Commission'' or ``FTC'') requested comment on its Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (``NPRM'') in connection with its rulemaking pursuant to Section 811 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (``EISA''). The NPRM stated that comments must be received on or before September 18, 2008. In response to a request to extend the comment period received on September 5, 2008, the Commission has determined to extend the comment period until October 17, 2008.

Public Workshop Concerning Petroleum Market Manipulation Rulemaking

Tue, Sep 16 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission (``FTC'' or ``Commission'') will host a public workshop to discuss issues arising from, and comments submitted in regard to, its rulemaking proceeding concerning Prohibitions on Market Manipulation and False Information in Subtitle B of Title VIII of The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (``EISA''). In particular, the workshop will consider the desirability and scope of the proposed rule prohibiting market manipulation in wholesale petroleum markets. The Commission will publish an agenda on its website prior to the workshop.

Information Collection Activities; Emergency Clearance Submission for Expedited OMB Review; Comment Request

Mon, Sep 8 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The information collection requirements described below will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') for emergency processing and a request for a temporary, 180day grant of clearance pursuant to OMB's regulations implementing the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA''). The Commission seeks public comments on the PRA burden analysis below for the final amendments to the FTC's Telemarketing Sales Rule (``TSR'' or ``Rule'').

SES Performance Review Board

Fri, Sep 5 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Notice is hereby given of the appointment of members to the Federal Trade Commission's Performance Review Board.

Public Workshops and Roundtables: Emerging Health Care Competition and Consumer Issues

Wed, Sep 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission (``FTC'' or ``Commission'') announces it will hold two workshops and roundtables in the fall of 2008 on emerging health care competition and consumer issues. They will focus on two distinct areas in which competition and consumer protection policies are implicated: (1) competition provided by developing an abbreviated regulatory approval pathway for followon biologic drugs; and (2) competition among health care providers based on quality information. The workshops and roundtables will be held at and administered by the FTC and their dates will be announced in a separate public notice.

This notice poses a series of questions for which the FTC seeks public comment. The Commission will consider these comments as it prepares for the public workshops and roundtables. In the spring of 2009, the FTC will release a report that analyzes the potential impacts on the marketplace of various policy options in these two areas.

Telemarketing Sales Rule (``TSR'')

Fri, Aug 29 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Commission adopts two final amendments to the TSR. The first is an amendment making explicit a prohibition in the TSR on telemarketing calls that deliver prerecorded messages without a consumer's express written agreement to receive such calls. This amendment also requires that all prerecorded telemarketing calls provide specified optout mechanisms so that consumers can opt out of future calls. The amendment is necessary because the reasonable consumer would consider prerecorded telemarketing messages to be coercive or abusive of such consumer's right to privacy.

The second amendment modifies the method for measuring the maximum call abandonment rate prescribed by the TSR's call abandonment safe harbor. The new method will permit sellers and telemarketers to calculate call abandonment rates for a live calling campaign over a thirtyday period, or any part thereof. This amendment is necessary because the current ``per day'' standard effectively precludes the use of predictive dialers with

Public Workshop Concerning the Prohibition of Unfair Methods of Competition In Section 5 of the Federal Trade

Thu, Aug 28 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission will hold a public workshop on October 17, 2008, in Washington, D.C., to explore the scope of the prohibition of ``unfair methods of competition'' in Section 5 of the FTC Act, 15 U.S.C. Sec. 45. In particular, the workshop will consider the appropriate scope of Section 5 in light of legal precedent, economic learning and changing business practices in a global and hi tech economy. The Commission seeks the views of the legal, academic, and business communities on the issues to be explored at the workshop. This notice poses a series of questions relevant to those issues for which the Commission seeks comment. The agency will consider these comments as it prepares for the workshop. Prior to the workshop, the Commission will publish an agenda on its website.

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.; Analysis of Agreement Containing Consent Orders to Aid Public Comment

Wed, Aug 20 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Prohibitions On Market Manipulation and False Information in Subtitle B of Title VIII of The Energy Independence and

Tue, Aug 19 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Pursuant to Title VIII, Subtitle B of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (``EISA''), the Federal Trade Commission (``Commission'' or ``FTC'') is proposing a rule to implement Section 811 of Subtitle B prohibiting the use or employment of manipulative or deceptive devices or contrivances in wholesale petroleum markets.\1\ The Commission invites written comments on issues raised by the proposed Rule and seeks answers to the specific questions set forth in Section II.L of this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (``NPRM''). \1\ Section 811 is part of Subtitle B of Title VIII of EISA, which has been codified at 42 U.S.C. 1730117305. Hereinafter, citations to EISA sections shall be made to the United States Code.

Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request

Thu, Aug 7 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The information collection requirements described below will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') for review, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA''). The FTC is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend through January 31, 2012, the current PRA clearance for information sought through compulsory process orders to a combined ten or more of the largest cigarette manufacturers and smokeless tobacco manufacturers in order to obtain from them information including, among other things, their sales and marketing expenditures. The current clearance expires on January 31, 2009.

McCormick & Company, Incorporated; Analysis of the Proposed Consent Orders to Aid Public Comment

Tue, Aug 5 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The consent agreement in this matter settles alleged violations of federal law prohibiting unfair or deceptive acts or practices or unfair methods of competition. The attached Analysis to Aid Public Comment describes both the allegations in the draft complaint and the terms of the consent order embodied in the consent agreement that would settle these allegations.

Granting of Request for Early Termination of the Waiting Period Under the Premerger Notification Rules

Thu, Jul 31 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Reopening and Extension of Time for Comments Concerning Proposal to Rescind Guidance Concerning the Current Cigarette

Wed, Jul 30 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission [bs

](``FTC'' or ``Commission'') has extended the date by which comments must be submitted concerning its proposal to rescind Commission guidance that it is generally not a violation of the FTC Act to make factual statements of the tar and nicotine yields of cigarettes when statements of such yields are supported by testing conducted pursuant to the Cambridge Filter Method. This document informs prospective commenters of this change and sets a new date of September 12, 2008.

Telemarketing Sales Rule Fees

Fri, Jul 25 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission (the ``Commission'' or ``FTC'') is amending its Telemarketing Sales Rule (``TSR'') by updating the fees charged to entities accessing the National Do Not Call Registry (``the Registry'') so that they conform to the fee structure specified in the recently enacted DoNotCall Registry Fee Extension Act of 2007. [[Page 43355]]

Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Extension

Thu, Jul 24 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The information collection requirements described below will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') for review, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA''). The FTC is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend through October 31, 2011, the current PRA clearance for information collection requirements contained in the FTC rule on ``Labeling and Advertising of Home Insulation'' (``Rvalue Rule'' or ``Rule''). The current clearance expires on October 31, 2008.

Pernod Ricard S.A.; Analysis of Agreement Containing Consent Orders to Aid Public Comment

Wed, Jul 23 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The consent agreement in this matter settles alleged violations of federal law prohibiting unfair or deceptive acts or practices or unfair methods of competition. The attached Analysis to Aid Public Comment describes both the allegations in the draft complaint and the terms of the consent order embodied in the consent agreement that would settle these allegations.

AGENCY: Federal Trade Commission.

Mon, Jul 21 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission (``FTC'' or ``Commission'') requests public comments on its Used Motor Vehicle Trade Regulation Rule (``Used Car Rule'' or ``Rule''). The Commission is soliciting the comments as part of the FTC's systematic review of all current Commission regulations and guides.

AGENCY: Federal Trade Commission.

Mon, Jul 21 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The information collection requirements described below will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') for review, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act. The Federal Trade Commission (``FTC'' or ``Commission'') is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend through October 31, 2011, the current OMB clearance for the information collection requirements pertaining to the Commission's administrative activities. That clearance expires on October 31, 2008, and consists of: (a) applications to the Commission, including applications and notices contained in the Commission's Rules of Practice (primarily Parts I, II, and IV); (b) the FTC's consumer complaint systems; (c) the FTC's program evaluation activities and; (d) the FTC's Applicant Background Form.

AGENCY: Federal Trade Commission.

Mon, Jul 21 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The consent agreement in this matter settles alleged violations of federal law prohibiting unfair or deceptive acts or practices or unfair methods of competition. The attached Analysis to Aid Public Comment describes both the allegations in the draft complaint and the terms of the consent order embodied in the consent agreement that would settle these allegations.

Rule Concerning Disclosures Regarding Energy Consumption and Water Use of Certain Home Appliances and Other Products

Thu, Jul 17 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Section 321 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 requires the Commission to conduct a rulemaking to consider the effectiveness of current energy labeling for lamps (commonly referred to as ``light bulbs'') and to consider alternative labeling approaches. In response to that directive, the Commission seeks comments on the effectiveness of current labeling requirements for lamp packages and possible alternatives to those requirements. As part of this effort, the Commission will hold a public roundtable meeting on September 15, 2008, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Franchise Rule Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request

Tue, Jul 15 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The information collection requirements described below will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') for review, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA''). The FTC is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend through October 31, 2011, the current PRA clearance for information collection requirements contained in its Trade Regulation Rule on Disclosure Requirements and Prohibitions Concerning Franchising (``Franchise Rule''). That clearance expires on October 31, 2008.

Proposal to Rescind FTC Guidance Concerning the Current Cigarette Test Method

Mon, Jul 14 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission (``FTC'' or ``Commission'') is proposing to rescind its guidance that it is generally not a violation of the FTC Act to make factual statements of the tar and nicotine yields of cigarettes when statements of such yields are supported by testing conducted pursuant to the Cambridge Filter Method, also frequently referred to as ``the FTC Test Method.'' If it withdraws this guidance, advertisers should not use terms such as ``per FTC Method'' or other phrases that state or imply FTC endorsement or approval of the Cambridge Filter Method or other machinebased test methods. The Commission seeks public comments on its proposal.

Automotive Fuel Ratings, Certification and Posting

Fri, Jul 11 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Section 205 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 requires the Commission to promulgate biodiesel and biomassbased diesel labeling requirements. In accordance with this directive, the Commission has completed the required rulemaking and is publishing final amendments to its rule for ``Automotive Fuel Ratings, Certification and Posting'' (``Fuel Rating Rule'' or ``Rule'') (16 CFR Part 306).

Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Extension

Thu, Jul 10 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request; Extension

Thu, Jul 10 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The information collection requirements described below will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') for review, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA''). The FTC is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend through July 31, 2011, the current PRA clearance for information collection requirements contained in its Funeral Industry Practice Rule (``Funeral Rule'' or ``Rule''). That clearance expires on July 31, 2008.

Rule Concerning Disclosures Regarding Energy Consumption and Water Use of Certain Home Appliances and Other Products

Wed, Jul 9 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Section 324 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 requires the Commission to issue labeling rules for metal halide lamp fixtures and ballasts. In accordance with this directive, the Commission has completed the required rulemaking and is publishing final amendments to the Appliance Labeling Rule (``Rule'').

Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Extension

Mon, Jul 7 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The information collection requirements described below will be submitted to the Office of Management
[[Page 38452]]
and Budget (``OMB'') for review, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA''). The FTC is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend through October 31, 2011, the current PRA clearance for information collection requirements contained in the Commission's Business Opportunity Rule (``Rule''). The current clearance expires on October 31, 2008.

Carlyle Partners IV, L.P.; Analysis of Agreement Containing Consent Order to Aid Public Comment

Mon, Jul 7 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The consent agreement in this matter settles alleged violations of federal law prohibiting unfair or deceptive acts or practices or unfair methods of competition. The attached Analysis to Aid Public Comment describes both the allegations in the draft complaint and the terms of the consent order embodied in the consent agreement that would settle these allegations.

Granting of Request for Early Termination of the Waiting Period Under the Premerger Notification Rules

Mon, Jul 7 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request

Tue, Jul 1 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The FTC intends to conduct consumer survey research to advance its understanding of the experiences of consumers who interact with consumer reporting agencies following an incident of identity theft. The results of this research will inform and guide the FTC's future enforcement and education efforts. Before gathering information, the FTC is seeking public comments on its proposed consumer research. Comments will be considered before the FTC submits a request for Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') review under the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA'').

Aliyah Associates, LLC dd/b/a American Advance; Analysis of the Proposed Consent Order to Aid Public Comment

Mon, Jun 30 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The consent agreement in this matter settles alleged violations of federal law prohibiting unfair or deceptive acts or practices or unfair methods of competition. The attached Analysis to Aid Public Comment describes both the allegations in the draft complaint and the terms of the consent order embodied in the consent agreement that would settle these allegations.

We Give Loans, Inc.; Analysis of the Proposed Consent Order to Aid Public Comment

Mon, Jun 30 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The consent agreement in this matter settles alleged violations of federal law prohibiting unfair or deceptive acts or practices or unfair methods of competition. The attached Analysis to Aid Public Comment describes both the allegations in the draft complaint and the terms of the consent order embodied in the consent agreement that would settle these allegations.

Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request; Extension

Fri, Jun 27 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The information collection requirements described below will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') for review, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA''). The FTC is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend through July 31, 2011, the current PRA clearance for information collection requirements contained in the Commission's GrammLeachBliley Financial Privacy Rule (``GLB Privacy Rule'' or ``Rule''). The current clearance expires on July 31, 2008.

Granting of Request for Early Termination of the Waiting Period Under the Premerger Notification Rules

Thu, Jun 26 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request; Extension

Tue, Jun 24 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The FTC is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend through July 31, 2011, the current Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA'') clearance for information collection requirements contained in the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act Rule (``COPPA Rule''), which will expire on July 31, 2008. The information collection requirements described below will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') for review, as required by the PRA.

Business Opportunity Rule

Thu, Jun 19 2008 11:00:00 GMT

In a Federal Register notice published on March 26, 2008,\1\ the FTC requested comment on its Revised Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (``RNPR'' or ``Notice'') in connection with the Business Opportunity Rule. The Notice stated that comments must be submitted on or before May 27, 2008, and that rebuttal comments must be submitted on or before June 16, 2008. In response to a request to extend the rebuttal comment period received on June 5, 2008, the Commission has extended the rebuttal comment period for an additional 15 days.
\1\ The Notice was announced in a press release on March 18, 2008, available at: (http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2008/03/busrule.shtm) (``Press Release'').

Guides for Select Leather and Imitation Leather Products

Wed, Jun 18 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission (``FTC'' or ``Commission'') has completed the regulatory review of its Guides for Select Leather and Imitation Leather Products (``Leather Guides'' or ``Guides'') as part of its systematic review of all current Commission regulations and guides, and has decided to retain the Guides in their current form.

Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Extension

Wed, Jun 18 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Privacy Act of 1974; System of Records Notices

Thu, Jun 12 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The FTC is revising the notices that it is required to publish under the Privacy Act of 1974 to describe its systems of records about individuals. This action is intended to make these notices clearer, more accurate, and uptodate. This document also consolidates all of the notices into a single publication for ease of use and reference. This consolidation and revision is designed to promote better public understanding of how and when the FTC collects and uses information about individuals.

Guides for the Use of Environmental Marketing Claims; Green Building and Textiles; Public Workshop

Tue, Jun 10 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission (``FTC'' or ``Commission'') is planning to host a public workshop on July 15, 2008, to examine developments in green building and textile claims and consumer perception of such claims. The workshop is a component of the Commission's regulatory review of the Guides for the Use of Environmental Marketing Claims, announced on November 26, 2007.

Prohibitions On Market Manipulation and False Information in Subtitle B of Title VIII of The Energy Independence and

Fri, Jun 6 2008 11:00:00 GMT

In a Federal Register notice issued and announced on May 1, 2008,\1\ and published in the Federal Register on May 7, 2008 (``Notice''),\2\ the Federal Trade Commission (``Commission'' or ``FTC'') requested comment on its Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (``ANPR'') in connection with its rulemaking pursuant to Section 811 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (``EISA''). The ANPR stated that comments must be submitted on or before June 6, 2008. In response to a request to extend the comment period received on May 19, 2008, the Commission has determined to extend the comment period for an additional 15 days.
\1\ The Notice was announced in a press release on May 1, 2008, available at: (http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2008/05/anpr.shtm.) \2\ Federal Trade Commission, Prohibitions On Market
Manipulation and False Information in Subtitle B of the

Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request

Thu, Jun 5 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission is seeking public comments on its proposal to conduct consumer research on parental use of the Motion Picture Association of America (``MPAA'') movie rating information as it appears on DVD packaging for home video releases of rated motion pictures. The FTC is also seeking comment on a related proposal to conduct consumer research on parental attitudes toward the marketing of unrated DVD versions of rated motion pictures. To examine both issues, the Commission intends to conduct surveys of parents who have one or more children ages 7 to 16, and who have bought or rented a movie on DVD within the past year. The information collection requirements described below will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') for review, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA'').

SES Performance Review Board

Tue, Jun 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Notice is hereby given of the appointment of members to the Federal Trade Commission's Performance Review Board.

Definitions and Implementation Under the CAN-SPAM Act

Wed, May 21 2008 11:00:00 GMT

In this document, the Federal Trade Commission (``FTC'' or ``Commission'') issues its Statement of Basis and Purpose and final Discretionary Rule (``final Rule'') pursuant to section 7711(a) of the Controlling the Assault of NonSolicited Pornography and Marketing Act of 2003 (``CANSPAM'' or ``the Act''), which gives the FTC
discretionary authority to ``issue regulations to implement the provisions of [the] Act.''

Agrium Inc. and UAP Holding Corporation; Analysis of the Complaint and Proposed Consent Order to Aid Public Comment

Mon, May 12 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The consent agreement in this matter settles alleged violations of federal law prohibiting unfair or deceptive acts or practices or unfair methods of competition. The attached Analysis to Aid Public Comment describes both the allegations in the draft complaint and the terms of the consent order embodied in the consent agreement that would settle these allegations.

Prohibitions On Market Manipulation and False Information in Subtitle B of the Energy Independence and Security Act of

Wed, May 7 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC or Commission) is requesting comment on the manner in which it should carry out its rulemaking responsibilities under Section 811 of Subtitle B of Title VIII of The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA).

TALX, Inc.; Analysis of Proposed Consent Order to Aid Public Comment

Wed, May 7 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The consent agreement in this matter settles alleged violations of federal law prohibiting unfair or deceptive acts or practices or unfair methods of competition. The attached Analysis to Aid Public Comment describes both the allegations in the draft complaint and the terms of the consent order embodied in the consent agreement that would settle these allegations.

Granting of Request for Early Termination of the Waiting Period Under the Premerger Notification Rules

Tue, May 6 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Section 7A of the Clayton Act, 15 U.S.C. 18a, as added by Title II of the HartScottRodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, requires persons contemplating certain mergers or acquisitions to give the Federal Trade Commission and the Assistant Attorney General advance notice and to wait designated periods before consummation of such plans. Section 7A(b)(2) of the Act permits the agencies, in individual cases, to terminate this waiting period prior to its expiration and requires that notice of this action be published in the Federal Register.

Guides for the Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries

Mon, Apr 28 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The FTC is extending the deadline for filing public comments on a proposed amendment to the platinum section of the Guides for the Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries for an additional ninety (90) days.

Delegation of Authority To Disclose Certain Nonpublic Complaint Information to Domestic Law Enforcement Agencies

Fri, Apr 18 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Commission has delegated authority to the Associate Director of the Division of Planning and Information, Bureau of Consumer Protection, to allow U.S. Consumer Sentinel law enforcement members to access, via the secure Consumer Sentinel Web site, all consumer complaints received by the FTC.

Granting of Request for Early Termination of the Waiting Period Under the Premerger Notification Rules

Tue, Apr 8 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Section 7A of the Clayton Act, 15 U.S.C. 18a, as added by Title II of the HartScottRodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, requires persons contemplating certain mergers or acquisitions to give the Federal Trade Commission and the Assistant Attorney General advance notice and to wait designated periods before consummation of such plans. Section 7A(b)(2) of the Act permits the agencies, in individual cases, to terminate this waiting period prior to its expiration and requires that notice of this action be published in the Federal Register.

Rules and Regulations Under the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act

Mon, Apr 7 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission (``Commission'' or ``FTC''), pursuant to a Petition filed by Mohawk Industries, Inc. (``Mohawk''), E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company (``DuPont''), and PTT Poly Canada (``PTT Canada'') (hereinafter ``Petitioners''), solicited comments on whether the Commission should: amend Rule 7(c) of the Rules and Regulations Under the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act (``Textile Rules'') to establish a new generic fiber subclass name and definition within the existing definition of ``polyester'' for a specifically proposed subclass of polyester fibers made from poly(trimethylene terephthalate) (``PTT''); amend Rule 7(c) to broaden or clarify its definition of ``polyester'' to describe more accurately the PTT fiber; or retain Rule 7(c)'s definition of ``polyester.'' The Commission received comments through November 12, 2007. Based on those comments, the Commission is reopening the comment period for an additional 30 days.

Reed Elsevier Inc. and Seisint, Inc.; Analysis of Proposed Consent Order to Aid Public Comment

Thu, Apr 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The TJX Companies, Inc.; Analysis of Proposed Consent Order to Aid Public Comment

Thu, Apr 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Extension

Wed, Apr 2 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The information collection requirements described below will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') for review, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA''). The FTC is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend through July 31, 2011, the current PRA clearance for information collection requirements contained in the Commission's GrammLeachBliley Financial Privacy Rule (``GLB Privacy Rule'' or ``Rule''). The current clearance expires on July 31, 2008.

Appliance Labeling Rule

Tue, Apr 1 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Section 324 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 requires the Federal Trade Commission to issue labeling rules for metal halide lamp fixtures and ballasts by July 1, 2008. In accordance with this directive, the FTC is publishing proposed amendments to the Appliance Labeling Rule (``Rule'') for comment.

Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Extension

Fri, Mar 28 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The information collection requirements described below will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') for review, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA''). The FTC is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend through July 31, 2011, the current Paperwork Reduction Act clearance for information collection requirements contained in its Funeral Industry Practice Rule (``Funeral Rule'' or ``Rule''). That clearance expires on July 31, 2008.