FTC Seeks Comment on Amplifier Rule As Part of Regular Rule Review

The Federal Trade Commission is seeking comment from consumers and industry as part of its scheduled review of the Rule Relating to Power Output Claims for Amplifiers Utilized in Home Entertainment Products, commonly known as the Amplifier Rule.

The Amplifier Rule requires uniform measurements and disclosures for home entertainment amplifiers so consumers can easily compare amplifier characteristics. It was enacted by the FTC in 1974 in response to amplifier advertisements that relied on widely disparate and, at times, deceptive testing methods, leaving consumers without a way to reliably shop for amplifiers. The Rule was last reviewed in 2008.

As detailed in an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR), the FTC seeks public comment on the need for the Rule, the benefits and costs of the Rule to consumers and industry, recommended changes to the Rule, and whether there are any additional deceptive or unfair practices in the home amplifier market that are not addressed by the Rule. The ANPR also seeks comment on whether the Rule should be expanded to include products not currently covered by the Rule, changes that may be necessary as a result of technological or economic changes, and whether the Rule conflicts with other regulatory requirements.

The Commission vote approving publication of the ANPR in the Federal Register was 5-0, with Commissioner Christine S. Wilson issuing a statement. It will be published in the Register shortly. Written comments must be received within 60 days of the date the notice is published. Comments can be filed electronically at https://www.regulations.gov.