FTC Issues Plain English Guide to Antitrust Laws

The Federal Trade Commission has issued a plain English guide to antitrust laws, "Promoting Competition, Protecting Consumers." The guide, published by the FTC's Bureau of Competition, explains the antitrust laws, how they work, why they were enacted and what consumer interests they protect.

"We're were pleased to publish this simple antitrust guide," said Robert Pitofsky, Chairman of the FTC. "History has shown that societies that promote vigorous competition among private companies have lower prices, better products, and greater consumer choice," said Pitofsky. "Antitrust laws preserve competition. We think this plain English guide will help people understand why antitrust laws are critical to the nation's economy."

The 20-page booklet, "Promoting Competition, Protecting Consumers: A Plain English Guide to Antitrust Laws," outlines the laws -- the Sherman Act, the Clayton Act, and the FTC Act -- that bar businesses from making deals that restrict competition and drive up prices. It describes certain illegal business practices -- such as boycotts and agreements to restrict advertising -- that violate antitrust laws. It discusses monopolies and mergers and responds to frequently asked questions.

Copies of "Promoting Competition, Protecting Consumers" are available from the FTC's web site at http://www.ftc.gov and also from the FTC's Consumer Response Center, Room 130, 6th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20580; 202-FTC-HELP (202-382-4357); TDD for the hearing impaired 1-866-653-4261. To find out the latest news as it is announced, call the FTC NewsPhone recording at 202-326-2710.