Key Update:
FCC Considering New Accessibility Requirements for Videoconferencing Platforms
On May 16, 2023, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel announced that she shared proposals with her fellow commissioners that would, for the first time, require videoconferencing platforms to comply with accessibility requirements under the Communications Act and agency rules governing interoperable videoconferencing services.
Among other things, Chairwoman Rosenworcel’s proposals would (1) treat “interoperable
FTC Proposes New Rules for Subscription Services—Public Comments Now Open!
The FTC published the proposed Negative Option Rule (Rule) to the Federal Register on April 24, 2023, with the goal of preventing unfair and deceptive practices related to recurring subscriptions for products and services. The FTC has invited the public to comment on proposed changes to the Rule. Written comments must be submitted by June
Another Round of Notice of Penalty Offenses—The FTC Targets Health Claims
Key updates:
- Under its Penalty Offense Authority, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warned almost 700 marketers with a Notice of Penalty Offenses (Notice) that certain advertising claims must be proven or substantiated with reliable evidence, especially those related to health products, or they may face civil penalties.
- Advertisers should have a reasonable basis for health claims, including complying with recognized scientific standards when making claims about the effectiveness of their products in curing, mitigating, or treating significant conditions such as cancer or heart disease.
- The Notice comes on the heels of the FTC updates to Health Products Compliance Guidance (the Health Guides) and indicates the FTC continues to scrutinize health claims.
Continue Reading Another Round of Notice of Penalty Offenses—The FTC Targets Health Claims
National Advertising Division Expands Fast-Track SWIFT Process for 2023
Key Update:
- The National Advertising Division (NAD) updated its Fast-Track SWIFT process (Single Well-defined Issue Fast Track) to accommodate “implied” claims as long as they are clear cut and involve a single issue.
- In 2020, the NAD launched its Fast-Track SWIFT resolution process, promising to resolve single-issue cases within 20 business days (as opposed to approximately three months in a standard NAD case). For an overview of the process, see our blog.
Previously, the SWIFT track was only used for express claims, and NAD frequently rejected SWIFT treatment for challenges to implied claims. The process, however, is now expanded to include “misleading express and implied claims.” NAD hopes that by making the change it will reduce the number of disputes over SWIFT jurisdiction that revolve around whether the contested claim is express or implied.
Continue Reading National Advertising Division Expands Fast-Track SWIFT Process for 2023
FTC To Hold Workshop on “Recyclable” Claims as Part of Continuing Green Guides Review
As part of its assessment of the Guidelines for the Use of Environmental Marketing Claims (Green Guides), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) will hold a workshop on May 23, 2023, to consider “recyclable” advertising claims and issues related to environmental claims. The workshop is titled “Talking Trash at the FTC: Recyclable Claims and the Green Guides.”
FTC Proposes Rulemaking for Recurring Subscription Programs
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently announced a notice of proposed rulemaking to expand its “Negative Option Rule” to apply to all recurring subscription programs (Proposed Amendment). The Proposed Amendment would have a sweeping effect on recurring subscriptions, requiring—similarly to some state laws—clear and conspicuous disclosure of material terms, double opt-ins for sign-ups, a simple cancellation method, and an annual renewal reminder. If approved, the Proposed Amendment would set a nationwide floor by requiring specific practices for subscriptions, but it would not supplant existing state laws addressing recurring subscriptions. The amendment would also greatly expand the FTC’s ability to seek penalties and consumer redress for violations.
Continue Reading FTC Proposes Rulemaking for Recurring Subscription Programs
Supreme Court Grants Certiorari To Determine Viability of ADA Tester Standing
On March 27, 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court granted certiorari in a case concerning a plaintiff’s standing to bring an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) suit against a hotel where the plaintiff lacked any intention of ever visiting the hotel. This case could have major implications for the continued viability of “tester” standing in ADA cases and therefore greatly affect the number of ADA claims brought every year against hotels and other businesses offering goods and services to the public.
Continue Reading Supreme Court Grants Certiorari To Determine Viability of ADA Tester Standing
FTC Settlement With NutraClick Reimburses Customers Nearly $1 Million for Recurring Subscription Practices
Key Update:
- The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has used a $1 million settlement with NutraClick to reimburse customers who allegedly believed they were receiving free products but were actually enrolled in an unwanted monthly subscription program.
FTC Issues Updated Guidance for Advertising Health Products
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently issued Health Products Compliance Guidance (the Health Guides). The Health Guides replace prior FTC guidance issued in 1998 that largely focused on dietary supplements. The new guidance addresses advertising practices for a broader range of products, namely “any health-related product,” including foods, over-the-counter drugs, homeopathic products, devices, health equipment