FTC Approves Final Orders Requiring Trade Associations to Eliminate Rules that Restrict Competition

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved final orders settling charges in two separate cases alleging that the bylaws of the trade associations restrained competition.  

Under the order for the Professional Lighting and Sign Management Companies of America, Inc. (“PLASMA”), the trade association is required to stop restricting the geographic service area of its members, interfering with the ability of members to independently set prices, or impeding members from soliciting work from customers of other members. The order also requires the association to revise its bylaws, publicize its settlement with the FTC, and implement an antitrust compliance program.

The Professional Skaters Association order requires the association to stop restraining its members from soliciting work and competing on the basis of price, change its Code of Ethics, publicize its settlement with the FTC, and implement an antitrust compliance program.

 The Commission votes approving the final orders for PLASMA and the Professional Skaters Association were both 5-0. (PLASMA, FTC File No. 141-0088; the staff contact is Barbara Blank, Bureau of Competition, 202-326-2523; Professional Skaters Association, FTC File No. 131–0168, the staff contact is Karen A. Mills, Bureau of Competition, 202-326-2052)

The FTC’s Bureau of Competition works with the Bureau of Economics to investigate alleged anticompetitive business practices and, when appropriate, recommends that the Commission take law enforcement action. To inform the Bureau about particular business practices, call 202-326-3300, send an e-mail to antitrust@ftc.gov, or write to the Office of Policy and Coordination, Bureau of Competition, Federal Trade Commission, 600 Pennsylvania Ave., Room CC-5422, Washington, DC 20580. To learn more about the Bureau of Competition, read Competition Counts. Like the FTC on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, and subscribe to press releases for the latest FTC news and resources.