| Comment Number: | 522418-09405 |
| Received: | 7/14/2006 1:59:22 PM |
| Organization: | lia sophia Fashion Jewelry |
| Commenter: | Diane Brandtner |
| State: | OR |
| Subject: | Business Opportunity Rule |
| Title: | Notice of Proposed Rulemaking |
| CFR Citation: | 16 CFR Part 437 |
| No Attachments |
Comments:
To whom it may concern: I'm responding regarding the proposed Business Opportunity Rule R511993. It concerns me in it's present form as it could prevent me from continuing as a lia sophia Advisor. My goal is to provide excellent customer service to my customers and to provide opportunities to people who desire to establish their own business. I too am concerned about protecting the public from "unfair and deceptive acts or practices," yet this proposed rule could prove difficult for me to sell lia sophia products, perhaps impossible! Since becoming a lia sophia Advisor I've found a supportive company, great, high quality products and a business I can run form home while raising my 5 children. My future in direct sales could greatly influence the stability of my family. One concern I have is the 7 day waiting period to enroll new Advisors. lia sophia's sales kits are remarkably inexpensive. Consumers purchase cars, entertainment items, etc. that cost a lot more and do not have to wait 7 days. This waiting period may give the impression there is something wrong with the company or the compensation plan. lia sophia already has in place a resolution to anyone who wishes to cancel their business opportunity. Anyone can file a complaint against any company for any reason. If such information is accessed without explanation as to the findings and subsequent outcome, this can cause undue concern for the reputation of the company. I would have to disclose any complaints without proper investigation information under this clause. This information should be shared ONLY if said company was in fact found guilty of the accusation. Proposing to disclose a minimum of 10 prior purchasers nearest to the prospective purchaser seems a personal identity infringement. I value my customers rights to privacy and am very uncomfortable in giving out personal information. The time involved in paperwork and the burden to myself and the company would greatly hinder my business. I support the work the FTC does to protect consumers. However, I do believe this proposed new rule has many issues which could greatly affect direct sales persons and their companies. I implore the FTC to re-consider the proposed rule and provide alternatives to this rule so the unintended yet, likely consequences will be less burdensome and you can still achieve your goals. Thank you for reading my opinion. I look forward to the FTC taking action in reconsidering this rule, in all direct sellers behalf. Respectfully, Diane Brandtner