FTC Under Fire for Regulatory Overreach, Calls for Congressional Action Intensify

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is facing criticism for prioritizing its political agenda over consumer protection and the rule of law. Critics argue that the agency's recent policy shifts could lead to prolonged legal battles, burdening consumers and businesses alike. The responsibility now lies with Congress, which has the authority to reform the FTC, an agency it established over a century ago. The controversy began two years ago when the FTC, under Chairwoman Lina Khan, abandoned its consumer-focused antitrust enforcement policy. The new standards, described as anti-consumer and anti-business, allow the FTC to target companies based on vague criteria such as being "coercive" or "exploitative." This shift has prompted the resignation of over 100 career attorneys within the agency, signaling discontent with the politically charged direction of the FTC. Recent court rulings, including SEC v. Jarkesy, have challenged the administrative state's reliance on in-house judges, while cases like Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo have questioned the Chevron doctrine that allowed agencies to interpret ambiguous laws. These developments present Congress with a critical opportunity to reassess the FTC's rule-making powers and ensure they align with legislative intent and judicial standards. Former lawmakers Jason Altmire and Bob Barr emphasize the urgency for Congress to act, advocating for a review of the FTC's regulations. They argue that it is essential to repeal or defund any regulations that exceed congressional intent or conflict with judicial mandates, thereby restoring balance to the regulatory landscape.