Computer & Communication Industry Association
PublishedApril 18, 2023

House E&C Hearing Reflects Agreement On FTC Core Mission, Frustration Over Recent Activities, Staff Exits

Washington – A House Energy and Commerce subcommittee heard testimony from the Federal Trade Commissioners during a hearing on the agency’s budget today. Subcommittee Chairman Gus Bilirakis, R- Fla., opened the hearing with praise for the FTC’s mission alongside criticism for pursuing additional funding and authority outside of that scope. 

Both Democrats and Republicans on the committee said they wanted the FTC to use its resources toward the mission Congress gave it – to protect consumers, children, privacy, and data security.

The Computer & Communications Industry Association has advocated for competition in the tech industry for 50 years. The following can be attributed to CCIA President Matt Schruers:

“We are  encouraged by the breadth of support from FTC commissioners and members of Congress for enacting federal privacy legislation to protect consumers. The FTC can best carry out its mission if it heeds the committee’s call to return its focus to consumer needs and consumer fraud – rather than pursuing cases rooted in novel theories against American companies.”