Comment Number: 522418-06664
Received: 7/6/2006 11:50:35 PM
Organization: Tastefully Simple by Lori
Commenter: Lori Seymour
State: GA
Subject: Business Opportunity Rule
Title: Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
CFR Citation: 16 CFR Part 437
No Attachments

Comments:

I am concerned about the proposed Business Opportunity Rule R511993. I know that in its present form, it could prevent me from successfully operating my business as a direct seller of Tastefully Simple products. One of the most confusing and burdensome sections of the proposed rule is the seven-day waiting period for new consultants. Our new consultant startup kit costs only $170. People buy TVs, cars and other items that cost much more than that, and they don’t have to wait seven days. This waiting period gives the impression that there might be something wrong with our business. Under this waiting period requirement, I will also need to keep very detailed records when I first speak to someone about Tastefully Simple, and I will then have to spend much of my time preparing and sending in reports to Tastefully Simple headquarters. This will be a major burden for me, and it doesn't help to protect the public in any way. I, and most of my counterparts are ONE PERSON businesses. Please do not add time requirements that don't grow my business. When I became a Tastefully Simple independent consultant 6 years ago, I did it primarily because I wanted to earn some additional money. My family now depends on this extra income, and I'm very concerned about the proposed Business Opportunity Rule, because I believe it will jeopardize my business and my family's lifestyle. I understand and appreciate that your mission is to protect the public from unfair and deceptive acts or practices. I am all for that. However, some of the sections in the proposed rule need to be reconsidered with the help of those who are in this business. Restricting unscrupulous people will only help my business. Work with us to restrict the unscrupulous, not the good businesses.