Seeking Comments on Light Bulb Rule

The Federal Trade Commission, as a part of its ongoing review of various rules and guidelines, is seeking public comment on the usefulness and effectiveness of its Light Bulb Rule. Among other things, this rule requires disclosures on light bulb packages regarding the wattage, lumens and life of the bulbs, and disclosures on the bulbs themselves of the wattage and design voltage.

Comments on the rule and several questions the FTC has posed will be accepted through May 8.
The FTC promulgated the Light Bulb Rule in 1970, and in addition to the disclosures mentioned above, the rule also specifies the factors that should be used in computing energy savings, requires that certain data be disclosed in comparative claims, and defines how wattage, lumen and life ratings are to be determined.

In particular, the Commission seeks comments on whether the rule should be amended to reduce or eliminate any overlap it may have with recently adopted amendments to the FTC's Appliance Labeling Rule that also require disclosures on light bulb packages. In addition, the FTC seeks comments on several other questions including whether the rule is still needed, the benefits and costs of the rule to consumers, the burdens and benefits for manufacturers, any proposed changes to the rule, and the effect on the rule of any recent changes in technology or economic conditions.

The Commission vote to seek public comment on the rule was 4-0. The notice seeking comment was published in today's Federal Register. Comments should be identified "16 CFR Part 409 -- Comment" and addressed to Secretary, FTC, Room H-159, 6th Street and Pennsylvania, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20580.

Copies of the notice and of the news release referenced above are available from the FTC's Public Reference Branch, Room 130, 6th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20580; 202-326-2222; TTY for the hearing impaired 1-866-653-4261.

(FTC Matter No. P954209)