FTC: Made In The USA Comments Concerning D. Arthur Rabourn--P894219 D. Arthur Rabourn August 7, 1997 Senator Wendell H. Ford Senator Mitch McConnell Congressman Jim Bunning RE: Federal Trade Commission Proposal Relate to Made in U.S.A. Goods Dear Sirs: I recently heard that certain industries are lobbying for a Proposal before the Federal Trade Commission that would have the effect of changing the current Rule relative to the percentage of materials or workmanship that must be in a product to qualify it as being made in this Country. It is my understanding that this proposal would result in allowing products that are only 75% American made to be so identified. It would appear that this change is supported and encouraged by a handful of companies that seek to market their goods as being made in this Country, while taking advantage of cheap labor from foreign countries. The current Rule appears to be sufficient. We have operated under this current Standard for almost fifty years. There is no practical reason for changing the Rule other than to allow select industries the opportunity to market their product as American and thus avail themselves of a marketing tool that appeals to many purchasers. This should not be allowed at the expense of those who truly wish to purchase American made products. I respectfully request that you take action so that the Federal Trade Commission does not successfully propose such a change. Thank you very much for your interest and courtesies. I remain, Very truly yours, D. Arthur Rabourn cc: Chairman of the Federal |