The Bureau of Economics helps the FTC evaluate
the economic impact of its actions. To do so the Bureau provides
economic analysis and support to antitrust and consumer protection
investigations and rulemakings. It also analyzes the impact
of government regulation on competition and consumers and
provides Congress, the Executive Branch, and the public with
economic analyses of market processes as they relate to antitrust,
consumer protection, and regulation.
Provides Economic Advice for Enforcement
The Bureau provides guidance and support
to the agencys antitrust and consumer protection activities.
In the antitrust area, the Bureau participates in the investigation
of alleged anticompetitive acts or practices and provides
advice on the economic merits of alternative antitrust actions.
If an enforcement action is initiated, the Bureau integrates
economic analysis into the proceeding (sometimes providing
the expert witness at trial) and works with the Bureau of
Competition to devise appropriate remedies.
In the consumer protection area, the Bureau
provides economic support and analysis of potential Commission
actions in both cases and rulemakings handled by the Bureau
of Consumer Protection. Bureau economists also provide analysis
of appropriate penalty levels to deter activity that harms
consumers.
Studies Effects of Legislative Options
and Regulations
The Bureau participates in the advocacy
program which is coordinated by the Office of Policy Planning.
The Commission's three bureaus present comments, upon request,
to other agencies and entities concerning the effects of regulation
on competition and consumers. At the request of lawmakers
or agency officials, comments or testimony are often provided
to assist legislatures consideration of pending bills
or to assist agency rulemaking proceedings. Similarly, amicus
curiae briefs may be presented to federal or state courts.
These submissions advocate policies that will enhance both
competition and consumer choice.
Analyzes Market Processes
The Bureau also conducts economic analyses
of various markets and industries. This work focuses on the
economic effects of regulation and on issues that are of importance
to antitrust and consumer protection law enforcement. Many
of these analyses are published as Economic
Reports.
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