House Communications Subcommittee Ranking Member Anna Eshoo and Rep. Zoe...
House Communications Subcommittee Ranking Member Anna Eshoo and Rep. Zoe Lofgren, both California Democrats, expressed their concern that the FTC is preparing to expand its powers to regulate antitrust violations. The issue was raised in a letter made public Monday…
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(http://xrl.us/bn2jqt). Eshoo and Lofgren, who represent districts in or around Silicon Valley, urged the FTC to reconsider expanding its jurisdiction under Section 5 of the Federal Trade Commission Act to include antitrust actions. The commission, in coordination with the Department of Justice, is currently investigating Google for alleged antitrust violations. Eshoo and Lofgren said expanding Section 5, which prohibits unfair and deceptive practices, “could lead to overbroad authority that amplifies uncertainty and stifles growth. These effects may be most acutely felt among online services, a crucial engine of job creation, where technological advancement and small business innovation are rapid,” they said. The FTC had no comment.