OVERVIEW

The Federal Trade Commission enforces a variety of federal antitrust and consumer protection laws. By eliminating acts or practices that are unfair or deceptive, the Commission seeks to ensure that the nation's markets function competitively and are vigorous, efficient, and free of undue restrictions. Its efforts are generally directed toward stopping actions that restrict competition or threaten consumers' ability to exercise informed choice. The Commission also undertakes economic analysis to support its law enforcement efforts and to contribute to the policy deliberations of various federal, state, and local government bodies.

In addition to its statutory enforcement activities, the Commission supports Congressional mandates through cost-effective non-enforcement activities, such as consumer education. This report reviews the Commission's accomplishments in fiscal year 1996.