[Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions]
[Federal Trade Commission Semiannual Regulatory Agenda]
[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]



[[Page 24017]]




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Part LVII



Federal Trade Commission



_______________________________________________________________________

Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

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FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION (FTC)                                         


  



_______________________________________________________________________

FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION

16 CFR Ch. I

Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

AGENCY: Federal Trade Commission.

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

_______________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY: The following agenda of Commission proceedings is published in 
accordance with section 22(d)(1) of the Federal Trade Commission Act, 
15 U.S.C. 57b-3(d)(1), and section 610(c) of the Regulatory Flexibility 
Act, 5 U.S.C. 610(c). Except for notice of completed actions, the 
information in this agenda represents the judgment of Commission staff 
based upon information now available, and each projected date of action 
reflects an assessment by the FTC staff of the likelihood that the 
specified event will occur during the coming year. No final 
determination by the staff or the Commission respecting the need for or 
the substance of a trade regulation rule or any other procedural option 
should be inferred from the notation of projected events in this 
agenda.

    In most instances, the dates of future events are listed by 
month, not by a specific day. Acquisition of new information, 
change of circumstances, or changes in the law may alter the 
information set forth in this agenda. Several agenda items concern 
rulemaking proceedings that may affect a substantial number of 
small businesses as that term is used in the Regulatory Flexibility 
Act. Whether the likely economic impact on such entities is 
significant will depend upon the outcome of the particular 
proceeding.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Further details may be obtained from 
the agency contact person listed for each particular proceeding.

By direction of the Commission.

Donald S. Clark,

Secretary.

                                                  Prerule Stage                                                 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4343        Trade Regulation Rule on Franchising and Business Opportunity Ventures................    3084-AA63 
4344        Deceptive Advertising and Labeling of Previously Used Lubricating Oil.................    3084-AA71 
4345        Rule Governing the Pre-Sale Availability of Written Warranty Terms....................    3084-AA73 
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                                               Proposed Rule Stage                                              
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4346        Premerger Notification Rules and Report Form..........................................    3084-AA23 
4347        Games of Chance in the Food Retailing and Gasoline Industries Rule....................    3084-AA24 
4348        Regulations Under the Comprehensive Smokeless Tobacco Health Education Act of 1986....    3084-AA48 
4349        Rules and Regulations Under the Wool Products Labeling Act of 1939....................    3084-AA50 
4350        Rules and Regulations Under the Fur Products Labeling Act.............................    3084-AA51 
4351        Rules and Regulations Under the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act.............    3084-AA52 
4352        The Care Labeling Rule................................................................    3084-AA54 
4353        Trade Regulation Rule Concerning the Labeling and Advertising of Home Insulation......    3084-AA60 
4354        Trade Regulation Rule for the Incandescent Lamp (Light Bulb) Industry.................    3084-AA61 
4355        Trade Regulation Rule Concerning Misbranding and Deception as to Leather Content of                 
            Waist Belts...........................................................................    3084-AA62 
4356        Rule Governing Disclosure of Written Consumer Product Warranty Terms and Conditions...    3084-AA72 
4357        Appliance Labeling Rule--Energy Policy and Conservation Act...........................    3084-AA74 
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                                                Long-Term Actions                                               
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                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4358        Amended Federal Deposit Corporation Improvement Act...................................    3084-AA44 
4359        Regulatory Review.....................................................................    3084-AA47 
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                                                Completed Actions                                               
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
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4360        Cooling-Off Period for Sales Made at Homes or at Certain Other Locations..............    3084-AA53 
4361        The Used Motor Vehicle Trade Regulation Rule..........................................    3084-AA56 

[[Page 24019]]

                                                                                                                
4362        Test Procedures and Labeling Standard for Recycled Oil................................    3084-AA64 
4363        Deception as to Non-Prismatic and Partially Prismatic Instruments Being Prismatic                   
            Instruments...........................................................................    3084-AA65 
4364        Advertising and Labeling of Sleeping Bags.............................................    3084-AA66 
4365        Failure To Disclose the Lethal Effects of Inhaling Quick-Freeze Spray Products Used                 
            for Frosting Cocktail Glasses.........................................................    3084-AA67 
4366        Failure To Disclose That Skin Irritation May Result From Washing or Handling Glass                  
            Fiber Curtains and Draperies and Glass Fiber Curtain and Drapery Fabrics..............    3084-AA68 
4367        Deceptive Advertising and Labeling as to Size of Tablecloths and Related Products.....    3084-AA69 
4368        Deceptive Advertising and Labeling as to Length of Extension Ladders..................    3084-AA70 
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FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION (FTC)                            Prerule Stage


  



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4343. TRADE REGULATION RULE ON FRANCHISING AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY 
VENTURES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  15 USC 41 to 58

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 436

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Trade Commission's Trade Regulation Rule on 
Franchising and Business Opportunity Ventures (Franchise Rule) became 
effective on October 21, 1979. The Rule is designed to reduce deceptive 
and unfair practices in the sale of franchises and business 
opportunities by requiring the pre-sale disclosure of material 
information about the franchise. For example, the Rule requires 
franchisors to disclose their business background and litigation 
history, as well as the number of failed and terminated franchise 
units. The Rule also requires the disclosure of material terms of the 
franchise relationship, such as recurring fees and termination and 
renewal rights. The Rule further requires the franchisor to provide an 
audited financial statement for the past three fiscal years. Finally, 
the Rule requires any franchisor who makes earnings representations to 
provide the prospective franchisee with an earnings claims document 
that substantiates those claims. As part of its systematic review of 
all current Commission rules and guides, the Commission is requesting 
comments about the overall costs and benefits of the Rule and what 
effects, if any, have changes in relevant technology, economic 
conditions, and industry practices had on the Rule. The Commission may 
also consider other areas of the Rule, as appropriate. Two public 
workshops have been held, one on September 12, 1995, and the other on 
March 11, 1996.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Request for Comments            04/15/95
Comment Period End              08/11/95
Public Workshop                 09/12/95
Public Workshop                 03/11/96
Recommendations to the 
Commission                      04/15/96
Final Commission Action         06/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Steven Toporoff, Division of Marketing Practices, 
Bureau of Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 
20580
Phone: 202 326-3135

RIN: 3084-AA63
_______________________________________________________________________




4344.  DECEPTIVE ADVERTISING AND LABELING OF PREVIOUSLY USED 
LUBRICATING OIL

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  15 USC 41 et seq

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 406

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Used Oil Rule was promulgated by the Commission on August 
14, 1964, to prevent deception of consumers who prefer new and unused 
lubricating oil. The Rule requires that advertising, promotional 
material, and labels for lubricant made from used oil disclose such 
previous use. The Rule prohibits any representation that used 
lubricating oil is new or unused. In addition, it prohibits use of the 
term ``re-refined,'' or any similar term, to describe previously used 
lubricating oil unless the physical and chemical contaminants have been 
removed by a refining process. The Commission will request public 
comment on the Rule in 1996. In 1980, the Rule's labeling disclosure 
requirements were suspended by the Used Oil Recycling Act until the 
Commission issued rules under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act 
(EPCA). Based on that suspension, in 1981, the Commission suspended the 
Rule's advertising and promotional materials disclosure requirements. 
In July 1995, the Commission received the test procedures from the 
National Institute of Standards and Technology that triggered 
promulgation of the Rule under EPCA. On October 31, 1995, the 
Commission published the Recycled Oil Rule (covering recycled engine 
oil). Under EPCA, the Recycled Oil Rule preempts the Used Oil Rule's 
labeling and advertising requirements for engine oils. For non-engine 
oils, the Used Oil Rule's labeling disclosure provisions continue to be 
subject to the Congressional stay, and the advertising disclosure 
provisions continue to be subject to the Commission's stay. When it 
published the Recycled Oil Rule, the Commission stated that as part of 
its regulatory review process, it would

[[Page 24020]]

consider the continuing need for the Used Oil Rule. Therefore, this 
proceeding has been included as part of the Reinventing Government 
Initiative because it may eliminate or revise CFR text to reduce burden 
or duplication, or streamline requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Recommendation to Commission    03/01/96
ANPRM                           04/03/96                    61 FR 14686
ANPRM Comment Period End        05/03/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Neil Blickman, Division of Enforcement, Bureau of 
Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20580
Phone: 202 326-3038

RIN: 3084-AA71
_______________________________________________________________________




4345.  RULE GOVERNING THE PRE-SALE AVAILABILITY OF WRITTEN 
WARRANTY TERMS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  15 USC 41 et seq

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 460

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rule Governing the Pre-Sale Availability of Written 
Warranty Terms (Rule 702) establishes requirements for sellers and 
warrantors for making the terms of a written warranty available to the 
consumer prior to sale. Among other things, the Rule requires sellers 
to make warranty information readily available either by (1) displaying 
it in close proximity to the product or (2) furnishing it on request 
and posting signs in prominent locations advising consumers that 
warranty information is available. The rule requires warrantors to 
provide materials to enable sellers to comply with the rule's 
requirements, and also sets out the methods by which warranty 
information can be made available prior to the sale of the product in 
instances where the product is sold through catalogs, through mail 
order or through door-to-door sales. The Commission is reviewing this 
rule as part of its systematic review of all current Commission 
regulations and guides. The Commission will seek comments on, among 
other things, the economic impact of, and the continuing need for, this 
rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Begin Review                    05/00/96
Comment Period End              07/00/96
Recommendation to the Commission11/00/96
Final Commission Action         02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Carole I. Danielson, Division of Marketing Practices, 
Bureu of Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 
20580
Phone: 202 326-3115

RIN: 3084-AA73
_______________________________________________________________________


FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION (FTC)                      Proposed Rule Stage


  



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4346. PREMERGER NOTIFICATION RULES AND REPORT FORM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  15 USC 18a Clayton Act

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 801 to 803

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Premerger Notification Rules and the Antitrust 
Improvements Act Notification and Report Form were adopted pursuant to 
Section 7A of the Clayton Act. Section 7A requires firms of a certain 
size contemplating mergers or acquisitions of a specified size to file 
notification with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department 
of Justice (DOJ) and to wait a designated period before consummating 
the transaction. It also requires the FTC, with the concurrence of the 
Assistant Attorney General for Antitrust, to promulgate rules requiring 
that notification be in a form and contain information necessary to 
enable the FTC and DOJ to determine whether the proposed acquisition 
may, if consummated, violate the antitrust laws. These rules are 
continually reviewed in order to improve the program's effectiveness 
and reduce the paperwork burden on the business community. The 
Commission proposed modifications to the Premerger Notification and 
Report form during fiscal year 1994. In July 1995, the Commission 
proposed to amend the Rule's treatment of acquisitions of goods or 
realty made in the ordinary course of business. The Commission will 
reconsider what action, if any, to take on possible amendments 
regarding such acquisitions. In addition, on August 9, 1995, the 
Commission published a final rule that removed 16 CFR part 800, the 
transitional rule addressing the treatment of acquisitions consummated 
before, and notification filed on or before September 5, 1978.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Begin Review                    09/30/81
NPRM - Ordinary Course          09/24/85                    50 FR 38742
NPRM - HSR Form Changes         06/14/94                    59 FR 30545
NPRM - Ordinary Course          07/28/95                    60 FR 38930
Part 800 Repealed               08/09/95                    60 FR 40704
NPRM - Ordinary Course          04/00/96
NPRM - HSR Form Changes         06/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Sipple, Assistant Director, Pre-Merger 
Notification, Federal Trade Commission, Bureau of Competition, 
Washington, DC 20580
Phone: 202 326-2862

RIN: 3084-AA23
_______________________________________________________________________




4347. GAMES OF CHANCE IN THE FOOD RETAILING AND GASOLINE INDUSTRIES RULE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  15 USC 41 et seq

[[Page 24021]]

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 419

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Commission's trade regulation rule concerning games of 
chance became effective on October 17, 1969. The Rule establishes 
requirements for food and gasoline retailers in conducting and 
advertising games of chance by requiring disclosure of odds-of-winning 
and prize information in broadcast and print advertisements, as well as 
in point of sale information. In January, 1983, the Commission granted 
a temporary partial exemption to allow supermarkets and gas stations to 
advertise their games on radio and television without disclosing full 
information on prizes and odds-of-winning. In addition, the Commission 
also published an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on whether to 
make the broadcast exemption permanent. Finally, the Commission 
proposed to reduce the recordkeeping requirements of the Rule from 
three years to one year in keeping with the goals of the Paperwork 
Reduction Act, and requested public comment on other possible areas 
where amendments to the Rule may be appropriate. The Commission issued 
an NPRM on July 7, 1988 to consider amendments that would reduce the 
burden of the Rule's recordkeeping and disclosure requirements. On July 
26, 1995, the presiding officer reopened the record for additional 
public comment, particularly with regard to whether there is a 
continuing need for this Rule. Although this rulemaking was commenced 
prior to the Reinventing Government Initiative, it has been included as 
part of that Initiative because further proceedings in this matter will 
be consistent with that Initiative.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Promulgation of Original Rule   08/19/69                    34 FR 13302
ANPRM                           01/04/83                      48 FR 265
Temporary Partial Exemption     01/10/83                     48 FR 1046
NPRM                            07/07/88                    53 FR 25503
Reopened Record                 07/26/95                    60 FR 38474
Comment Period End              09/25/95
Presiding Officer's Report      04/00/96
Staff Report                    04/00/96
Comment Period End              06/00/96
Commission Consideration of 
Staff Recommendations           09/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John M. Mendenhall, Federal Trade Commission, Cleveland 
Regional Office, Suite 520A, 668 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, Ohio 44114
Phone: 216 522-4207

RIN: 3084-AA24
_______________________________________________________________________




4348. REGULATIONS UNDER THE COMPREHENSIVE SMOKELESS TOBACCO HEALTH 
EDUCATION ACT OF 1986

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  15 USC 4401

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 307

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Comprehensive Smokeless Tobacco Health Education Act of 
1986 requires health warnings on all packages and advertising for 
smokeless tobacco. The Commission published an NPR on February 14, 1995 
seeking public comment on whether the regulations governing the 
rotation schedule for utilitarian objects should be amended. The 
comment period expired on April 14, 1995. On a separate point, the 
Coalition on Smoking OR Health petitioned the Commission to enforce the 
Smokeless Tobacco Act by requiring smokeless tobacco health warnings on 
sponsored racing cars, banners, flags, and other related objects 
bearing smokeless tobacco product brand names, logos, or selling 
messages. On October 26, 1993, the Commission issued an NPR, proposing 
a requirement that sponsored auto racing vehicles and all other event-
related objects that bear the brand name or selling message of 
smokeless tobacco products display health warning labels. Staff is 
preparing its recommendations to the Commission.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM (Promotional Items)        01/15/93                     54 FR 4875
NPRM (Racing Cars)              11/04/93                    58 FR 58810
Comment Period End (Racing Cars)02/01/94
NPRM (Utilitarian Items)        02/14/95                     60 FR 8312
Comment Period End (Utilitarian 
Items)                          04/14/95
Final Staff Recommendation 
(Promotional Items)             04/00/96
Final Staff Recommendation 
(Racing Cars)                   04/00/96
Final Staff Recommendations 
(Utilitarian Items)             04/00/96
Commission Action (Promotional 
Items)                          06/00/96
Commission Action (Utilitarian 
Items)                          06/00/96
Commission Action (Racing Cars) 10/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip Priesman, Division of Advertising Practices, 
Bureau of Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 
20580
Phone: 202 326-2484

RIN: 3084-AA48
_______________________________________________________________________




4349. RULES AND REGULATIONS UNDER THE WOOL PRODUCTS LABELING ACT OF 1939

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  15 USC 68 Wool Products Labeling Act of 1939

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Wool Products Labeling Act of 1939 (Wool Act) requires 
covered wool products to be marked with (1) the generic names and 
percentages by weight of the constituent fibers present in the wool 
product; (2) the name under which the manufacturer or another 
responsible USA company does business, or in lieu thereof, the 
registered identification number (RN) of such a company; and (3) the 
name of the country where the wool product was processed or 
manufactured. Pursuant to Section 6(a) of the Wool Act, ``the 
Commission is authorized and directed to make rules and regulations for 
the manner and form of disclosing information required by this Act ... 
and to make such further

[[Page 24022]]

rules and regulations under and in pursuance of the terms of this Act 
as may be necessary and proper for administration and enforcement.'' 
These implementing rules and regulations are set forth at 16 CFR 300. 
As part of its systematic review of all current Commission regulations 
and guides, the Commission requested comments on, among other things, 
the economic impact of and the continuing need for, these rules, 
possible conflict between the rules and State, local and other federal 
laws, and the effect on the rules of any technological, economic, or 
other industry changes. Although this rulemaking was commenced prior to 
the Reinventing Government Initiative, it has been included as part of 
that Initiative because further proceedings in connection with this 
matter will be consistent with that Initiative.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Begin Reg Review                05/06/94                    59 FR 23645
Extension of Comment Period     09/12/94                    59 FR 46778
Comment Period End              10/15/94
NPRM                            04/00/96
Recommendation to Commission    04/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Bret S. Smart, Federal Trade Commission, Los Angeles 
Regional Office, 11000 Wilshire Boulevard, Ste. 13209, Los Angeles, CA 
90024
Phone: 310 235-7975

RIN: 3084-AA50
_______________________________________________________________________




4350. RULES AND REGULATIONS UNDER THE FUR PRODUCTS LABELING ACT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  15 USC 69 Fur Products Labeling Act

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 301

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Fur Products Labeling Act (Fur Act) requires covered furs 
and fur products to be labeled, invoiced, and advertised to show (1) 
the name(s) of the animal that produced the fur(s); (2) where such is 
the case, that the fur is used fur or contains used fur; (3) where such 
is the case, that the fur is bleached, dyed, or otherwise artificially 
colored; and (4) the name of the country of origin of any imported furs 
used in the fur product. Pursuant to Section 8(b) of the Fur Act, ``The 
Commission is authorized and directed to prescribe rules and 
regulations governing the manner and form of disclosing information 
required by this Act and such further rules and regulations as may be 
necessary and proper for purposes of administration and enforcement of 
this Act.'' These implementing rules are set forth at 16 CFR 301. As 
part of its systematic review of all current Commission regulations and 
guides, the Commission requested comments on, among other things, the 
economic impact of, and the continuing need for, these rules, possible 
conflict between the rules and state, local and other federal laws, and 
the effect on the rules of any technological, economic, or other 
industry changes. Although this rulemaking was commenced prior to the 
Reinventing Government Initiative, it has been included as part of that 
Initiative because further proceedings in connection with this matter 
will be consistent with that Initiative.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Begin Reg Review                05/06/94                    59 FR 23645
Extension of Comment Period     09/12/94                    59 FR 46778
Comment Period End              10/15/94
NPRM                            04/00/96
Recommendations to Commission   04/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Bret S. Smart, Federal Trade Commission, Los Angeles 
Regional Office, 11000 Wilshire Boulevard, Ste. 13209, Los Angeles, CA 
90024
Phone: 310 235-7975

RIN: 3084-AA51
_______________________________________________________________________




4351. RULES AND REGULATIONS UNDER THE TEXTILE FIBER PRODUCTS 
IDENTIFICATION ACT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  15 USC 70 Textile Fiber Products Identification Act

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 303

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Textile Fiber Products Identification Act (Textile Act) 
requires wearing apparel and other covered household textile articles 
to be marked with (1) the generic names and percentages by weight of 
the constituent fibers present in the textile fiber product; (2) the 
name under which the manufacturer or another responsible USA company 
does business, or in lieu thereof, the registered identification number 
(RN) of such a company; and (3) the name of the country where the 
textile product was processed or manufactured. Pursuant to Section 7(c) 
of the Textile Act, ``the Commission is authorized and directed to make 
such rules and regulations, including the establishment of generic 
names of manufactured fibers, under and in pursuance of the terms of 
this Act as may be necessary and proper for administration and 
enforcement.'' These implementing rules are set forth at 16 CFR 303. As 
part of its systematic review of all current Commission regulations and 
guides, the Commission requested comments on, among other things, the 
economic impact of, and the continuing need for, these rules, possible 
conflict between the rules and State, local and other Federal laws, and 
the effect on the rules of any technological, economic, or other 
industry changes. Although this rulemaking was commenced prior to the 
Reinventing Government Initiative, it has been included as part of that 
Initiative because further proceedings in connection with this matter 
are consistent with that Initiative. The Commission is seeking further 
comments on proposals to revise the Rule to eliminate unnecessary 
disclosures and to streamline labeling requirements in a manner that 
will

[[Page 24023]]

facilitate uniform labels for products sold in NAFTA countries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Begin Reg Review                05/06/94                    59 FR 23646
Extension of Comment Period     09/12/94                    59 FR 46779
Comment Period End              10/15/94
Recommendations to Commission   12/15/95
NPRM                            02/12/96                     61 FR 5340
NPRM Comment Period End         05/13/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Bret S. Smart, Federal Trade Commission, Los Angeles 
Regional Office, 11000 Wilshire Boulevard, Ste. 13209, Los Angeles, CA 
90024
Phone: 310 235-7975

RIN: 3084-AA52
_______________________________________________________________________




4352. THE CARE LABELING RULE

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  15 USC 41 et seq

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 423

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Care Labeling Rule requires manufacturers and importers 
of textile wearing apparel to attach cleaning instructions stating what 
regular care is needed for the ordinary use of the product. If dry 
cleaning is recommended, the label must state at least one type of 
solvent that may be used, (unless all commercially available types of 
solvent can be used) and must contain a warning against the use of any 
part of the normal dry cleaning procedure that would harm the product. 
The Rule also requires that the manufacturer or importer possess, prior 
to sale, a reasonable basis for the care instructions. The Rule 
currently requires that care instructions be stated in ``appropriate 
terms.'' It also states that ``any appropriate symbols may be used on 
care labels or care instructions, in addition to the required 
appropriate terms so long as the terms fulfill the requirements of this 
regulation.'' Although the Rule does not specifically state that the 
instructions must be in English, they usually are. The Commission has 
tentatively decided to grant a conditional exemption allowing the use, 
in lieu of words, of the symbol system developed by the American 
Society for Testing and Manufacturing and has solicited comment on this 
tentative decision. The Commission has also published an Advance Notice 
of Proposed Rulemaking soliciting comment on whether it is desirable to 
require washing instructions for all washable garments; on whether the 
reasonable basis requirements of the Rule should be changed; and on 
other technical issues. Although this rulemaking was commenced prior to 
the Reinventing Government Initiative, it has been included as part of 
that Initiative because further proceedings in this matter are 
consistent with the Initiative.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Begin Reg Review                06/15/94                    59 FR 30733
Comment Period End              10/15/94
Recommendation to Commission    10/17/95
Request for Comment/ Exemption  11/16/95                    60 FR 57552
ANPRM                           12/28/95                    60 FR 67102
Comment Period End/Exemption    01/31/96
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/13/96
Recommendation to Commission/ 
Exemption                       04/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Constance Vecellio, Care Labeling Rule Coordinator, 
Division of Enforcement, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20580
Phone: 202 326-2966

RIN: 3084-AA54
_______________________________________________________________________




4353. TRADE REGULATION RULE CONCERNING THE LABELING AND ADVERTISING OF 
HOME INSULATION

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  15 USC 41 et seq

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 460

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Trade Commission's Trade Regulation Rule 
Concerning the Labeling and Advertising of Home Insulation (``R-Value 
Rule'') became effective on September 29, 1980. The Rule is designed to 
assist consumers in evaluating and comparing the thermal performance 
characteristics of competing home insulation products. Specifically, 
the Rule requires manufacturers of home insulation products to provide 
information about the product's degree of resistance to the flow of 
heat (R-Value). The Rule also establishes uniform standards for 
testing, information disclosure and substantiation of product 
performance claims. As part of its systematic review of all current 
Commission rules and guides, the Commission requested comments on, 
among other things, the economic impact of, and the continuing need 
for, this Rule, possible conflicts between the Rule and state, local 
and other federal laws, and the effect on the Rule of any 
technological, economic, or other industry changes. The staff intends 
to report to the Commission in two parts. Part I will address the 
comments on the continuing need for the Rule. Part II will address the 
comments that recommend the Commission adopt substantive revisions to 
the Rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Request for Comments            04/06/95                    60 FR 17492
Comment Period End              06/06/95
Recommendations to the 
Commission/Part I               01/26/96
Commission Action/Part I        04/00/96
Recommendations to the 
Commission/Part II              07/00/96
Commission Action/Part II       09/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kent C. Howerton, Division of Enforcement, Bureau of 
Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20580
Phone: 202 326-3013

RIN: 3084-AA60
_______________________________________________________________________




4354. TRADE REGULATION RULE FOR THE INCANDESCENT LAMP (LIGHT BULB) 
INDUSTRY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in

[[Page 24024]]

the CFR to reduce burden or duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  15 USC 41 et seq

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 409

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Trade Commission's Trade Regulation Rule for the 
Incandescent Lamp (Light Bulb) Industry became effective on January 25, 
1971. The Rule is designed to assist consumers in making informed 
purchases of light bulbs for specific needs. Specifically, the Rule 
requires the disclosures of, in accordance with uniform specifications, 
the electrical power consumed (expressed as average initial wattage), 
the light output (expressed as average initial lumens), and the average 
laboratory life (expressed in hours) on light bulb packages. In 
addition, the average initial wattage and design voltage must appear on 
the bulbs themselves. As part of its systematic review of all current 
Commission rules and guides, the Commission requested comments on, 
among other things, the economic impact of, and the continuing need 
for, this Rule, possible conflicts between the Rule and state, local 
and other federal laws, and the effect on the Rule of any 
technological, economic, or other industry changes. In addition, the 
Commission requested comment as to whether it should modify provisions 
of the Rule that duplicate or overlap with provisions in the Appliance 
Labeling Rule. This rulemaking has been included as part of the 
Reinventing Government Initiative because further proceedings in this 
matter may result in revisions to CFR text to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements, and therefore, will be 
consistent with that Initiative.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Request for Comments            04/06/95                    60 FR 17491
Comment Period End              08/07/95
Recommendation to the Commission11/09/95
Commission Action               12/27/95
NPRM                            02/06/96                     61 FR 4382
Comment Period End              03/07/96
Recommendation to the Commission04/00/96
Commission Action               05/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kent C. Howerton, Division of Enforcement, Bureau of 
Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20580
Phone: 202 326-3013

RIN: 3084-AA61
_______________________________________________________________________




4355. TRADE REGULATION RULE CONCERNING MISBRANDING AND DECEPTION AS TO 
LEATHER CONTENT OF WAIST BELTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  15 USC 41 et seq

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 405

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Trade Commission's Trade Regulation Rule 
Concerning Misbranding and Deception as to Leather Content of Waist 
Belts (Leather Belt Rule) makes it an unfair method of competition and 
an unfair and deceptive act or practice to misrepresent a belt's 
leather content or the type of animal hide or skin from which the belt 
is made. The Rule also prohibits the sale or distribution of belts 
without adequate disclosures as to their leather content or type of 
animal hide or skin if the appearance of the product would deceive 
consumers. As part of its systematic review of all current Commission 
rules and guides, the Commission requested comments on, among other 
things, the economic impact of, and the continuing need for, this Rule, 
possible conflicts between the Rule and state, local and other federal 
laws, and the effect on the Rule of any technological, economic, or 
other industry changes. After reviewing the comments, the Commission 
announced that, in order to avoid unnecessary duplication, it had 
decided to initiate a rulemaking proceeding to repeal the Rule. 
Proposed new Guides for Select Leather and Imitation Leather Products 
(See 60 FR 48056, September 18, 1995) will cover leather belts, as well 
as various other leather products. The Commission seeks public comment 
on its proposed repeal of the Rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Request for Comments            03/27/95                    60 FR 15725
Comment Period End              05/26/95
Recommendation to the Commission07/21/95
ANPRM                           09/18/95                    60 FR 48070
ANPRM Comment Period End        10/18/95
NPRM                            03/05/96                     61 FR 8499
NPRM Comment Period End         04/04/96
Recommendation to the Commission05/00/96
Final Commission Action         06/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Additional Information: ADDITIONAL AGENCY CONTACT: Edwin Rodriguez. 
Phone: 202 326-2981.

Agency Contact: Lemuel Dowdy, Federal Trade Commission, Division of 
Enforcement, Bureau of Consumer Protection, Washington, DC 20580
Phone: 202 326-2981

RIN: 3084-AA62
_______________________________________________________________________




4356.  RULE GOVERNING DISCLOSURE OF WRITTEN CONSUMER PRODUCT 
WARRANTY TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  15 USC 41 et seq

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 460

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rule Governing the Disclosure of Written Consumer Product 
Warranty Terms and Conditions (Rule 701) establishes requirements for 
warrantors for disclosing the terms and conditions of written 
warranties on consumer products actually costing the consumer more than 
$15.00. Rule 701 specifies the information that must appear in the 
written warranty, as well as the exact language that must be used for 
certain items. Under Rule 701, the information must be disclosed in 
simple, easily understood, and concise language in a single document. 
In addition to specifying the information that must appear in a written 
warranty, Rule 701 also requires that, in instances where the warrantor 
uses a warranty registration or owner registration card, the warranty 
must disclose whether

[[Page 24025]]

that registration card is a condition precedent to warranty coverage. 
Finally, it provides that, in connection with ``seal of approval'' 
programs, the disclosures do not have to be given in the actual seal 
itself, if they are made in a general circulation publication. The 
Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 USC 601 et seq., requires that an agency 
rule be reviewed within ten years of its publication. In addition, as 
part of its systematic review of all current Commission regulations and 
guides, the Commission has determined, as part of its oversight 
responsibilities, to review trade regulation rules at least once every 
ten years. These reviews seek comments on, among other things, the 
economic impact of, and the continuing need for, the Commission's 
rules, possible conflict between the rules and State, local, and other 
Federal laws, and the effect on the rules of any technological, 
economic, or other industry changes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Comment Period End              05/00/96
Begin Review                    05/00/96
Recommendation to the Commission11/00/96
Final Commission Action         02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Carole I. Danielson, Division of Marketing Practices, 
Bureau of Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 
20580
Phone: 202 326-3115

RIN: 3084-AA72
_______________________________________________________________________




4357.  APPLIANCE LABELING RULE--ENERGY POLICY AND CONSERVATION 
ACT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  Sec 324 of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act; PL 
94-163; 42 USC 6294

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 305

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Energy Policy and Conservation Act was enacted to enable 
consumers to conserve energy by comparing the energy use of competing 
appliances (and other products) and to use that information in their 
purchasing decisions. The statute required the Commission to issue a 
labeling rule prescribing the disclosure of the estimated annual cost 
of operation (or another measure of energy use) for certain categories 
of major household appliances. The statute was later amended to apply 
to plumbing and lamp products. The statute required that the 
disclosures for all covered products be based on standardized test 
procedures prescribed by the Department of Energy (DOE). In 1979, the 
Commission promulgated the Appliance Labeling Rule, which was amended 
substantively in 1987, 1990, 1993, and twice in 1994. The rule now 
covers 11 product categories: (1) refrigerators, refrigerator-freezers 
and freezers; (2) dishwashers; (3) clothes washers; (4) water heaters; 
(5) room air conditioners; (6) furnaces (7) central air conditioners 
and heat pumps; (8) fluorescent lamp ballasts; (9) certain plumbing 
products; (10) certain lamp products; and (11) pool heaters. For 
household appliances, the rule requires that energy consumption or 
efficiency information be disclosed in catalogs and at the point of 
sale in the form of yellow and black EnergyGuide labels. In addition, 
fact sheets or listing in an industry directory are required for 
furnaces, central air conditioners and heat pumps. For fluorescent lamp 
ballasts, the rule requires disclosure of an encircled E logo; for 
plumbing products, a marking of the water use rate on the product, and, 
for lamp products, the disclosure of energy usage and performance 
information on packages and in catalogs. The rule also mandates that 
energy-use-related advertisements for covered products be based on the 
DOE test procedures. The Commission proposes to amend the rule to 
permit placement of energy use labels required by Canada and Mexico 
adjacent to the EnergyGuide label, thus facilitating trade among the 
North American Free Trade Agreement countries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Recommendation to Commission    01/26/96
NPRM                            02/22/96                     61 FR 6801
NPRM Comment Period End         04/08/96
Recommendation to Commission    04/00/96
Final Commission Action         05/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James Mills, Division of Enforcement, Bureau of 
Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20580
Phone: 202 326-3035

RIN: 3084-AA74
_______________________________________________________________________


FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION (FTC)                        Long-Term Actions


  



_______________________________________________________________________




4358. AMENDED FEDERAL DEPOSIT CORPORATION IMPROVEMENT ACT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  Not yet determined

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Carole Reynolds
Phone: 202 326-3230

RIN: 3084-AA44
_______________________________________________________________________




4359. REGULATORY REVIEW

Priority:  Other

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 10 et seq

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Rule Review Continuing          00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kent Howerton

[[Page 24026]]

Phone: 202 326-3013

RIN: 3084-AA47
_______________________________________________________________________


FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION (FTC)                        Completed Actions


  



_______________________________________________________________________




4360. COOLING-OFF PERIOD FOR SALES MADE AT HOMES OR AT CERTAIN OTHER 
LOCATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  15 USC 41 et seq

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 429

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On October 20, 1995, the Commission, as part of its 
Regulatory Review program, published a notice announcing its decision 
to issue nonsubstantive amendments to the Rule. Specifically, the 
Commission amended the Rule by renaming it so that it more clearly 
identifies the kinds of sales it covers and by inserting two notes, 
formerly at the end of the Rule, into the Rule itself. Moreover, the 
Commission amended the Rule by adding a new section containing two 
exemptions to the Rule that the Commission granted in November 1988 to 
certain sellers of arts and crafts and of automobiles. The Commission 
also expanded the exemption for automobiles to include vans, trucks and 
other motor vehicles sold at temporary places of business by dealers 
having a permanent place of business. Further, the Commission amended 
the Rule by adding a parenthetical statement to the Rule's definition 
of the term ``Door-to-Door Sale.'' This new statement gives examples of 
kinds of sales locations covered by the Rule. The Commission also 
amended the Rule's definition of ``Business Day'' to reflect changes in 
federal holidays. Finally, the Commission amended the Rule to make the 
typeface used in the sample ``Notice of Cancellation'' more readable 
and to substitute the gender neutral words ``the buyer'' or ``the 
buyer's'' for the pronouns ``he,'' ``his,'' and ``him.''

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Begin Reg Review                04/15/94                    59 FR 18007
Comment Period End              06/14/94
Recommendations to the 
Commission                      08/24/95
Final Action                    10/20/95                    60 FR 54180
Final Action Effective          12/19/95

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lemuel W. Dowdy, Division of Enforcement, Bureau of 
Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20580
Phone: 202 326-2981

RIN: 3084-AA53
_______________________________________________________________________




4361. THE USED MOTOR VEHICLE TRADE REGULATION RULE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  15 USC 41 et seq

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 455

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of the Used Car Rule, which became effective on 
May 9, 1985, is to prevent and discourage oral misrepresentations and 
omissions of material facts by used car dealers concerning warranty 
coverage. The Rule provides a uniform method for written disclosure of 
warranty information on a window sticker called a ``Buyers Guide.'' The 
Rule requires sellers to disclose on the Buyers Guide the basic terms 
and conditions of any warranty offered in connection with the sale of a 
used car, including the duration of coverage, the percentage of total 
repair costs to be paid by the dealer, and the systems covered by the 
warranty. The Rule also requires certain other disclosures that must be 
printed on the Buyers Guide, including: a suggestion that consumers ask 
the dealer if a pre-purchase inspection is permitted; a warning against 
reliance on spoken promises that are not confirmed in writing; and a 
list of the 14 major systems of an automobile and the major problems 
that may occur in these systems. The Rule also provides that the Buyers 
Guide disclosures are to be incorporated by reference into the sales 
contract, and are to govern in the event of an inconsistency between 
the Buyers Guide and the sales contract. As part of the Commission's 
ongoing project to review all rules periodically, the Commission 
published a Federal Register Notice seeking public comment on the cost 
and benefits and other impacts of the Rule. Pursuant to the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act, the Commission also solicited comments on the Rule's 
impact on small business, and on whether the Rule should be amended to 
minimize any significant impact upon small economic entities. Following 
the review, the Commission adopted certain non-substantive amendments 
to the Rule. These included a provision allowing posting of the 
``Buyer's Guide'' anywhere on the vehicle, as long as it is prominently 
and conspicuously displayed. Although this rulemaking was commenced 
prior to the Reinventing Government Initiative, it has been included as 
part of that Initiative because proceedings in this matter were 
consistent with that Initiative.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Begin Reg Flex and Periodic 
Review                          05/06/94                    59 FR 23647
Comment Period End              07/06/94
Recommendations to Commission   08/21/95
Final Action                    12/05/95                    60 FR 62195
Final Action Effective          01/04/96

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: George Brent Mickum IV, Division of Enforcement, Bureau 
of Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20580
Phone: 202 326-3132

RIN: 3084-AA56
_______________________________________________________________________

[[Page 24027]]





4362. TEST PROCEDURES AND LABELING STANDARD FOR RECYCLED OIL

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  42 USC 6363(d)

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 311

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, October 25, 1995.

Abstract: Section 383 of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 
directs the FTC to promulgate a rule prescribing test procedures and 
labeling standards applicable to containers of recycled oil. The 
Commission is required to prescribe the Rule within 90 days after the 
National Institute of Standards and Technology reports to the 
Commission the test procedures to determine the substantial equivalency 
of processed used oil with new oil distributed for a particular end 
use. On July 27, 1995, NIST reported to the Commission test procedures 
for processed used engine oil. The Commission conducted a rulemaking 
proceeding to implement the statutory directive. The final Rule permits 
a manufacturer to label processed used engine oil as substantially 
equivalent to new oil only if that determination has been based on the 
test procedures certified by NIST and prescribed in the Rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/28/95                    60 FR 44712
Comment Period End              09/28/95
Final Action                    10/31/95                    60 FR 55414
Final Action Effective          11/30/95

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Neil Blickman/Laura Koss, Division of Enforcement, 
Bureau of Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 
20580
Phone: 202 326-3038

RIN: 3084-AA64
_______________________________________________________________________




4363. DECEPTION AS TO NON-PRISMATIC AND PARTIALLY PRISMATIC INSTRUMENTS 
BEING PRISMATIC INSTRUMENTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  15 USC 57

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 402

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The binocular rule, promulgated in 1964, required a clear and 
conspicuous disclosure on any advertising or packaging for non- 
prismatic or partially prismatic binoculars that the instruments were 
not fully prismatic. Fully prismatic binoculars rely on a prism within 
the instrument to reverse the visual image entering the lens so that it 
appears right-side up to the user. Other binoculars rely partially or 
entirely on mirrors to reverse the visual image. To prevent consumer 
deception, the rule proscribed the use of the term ``binocular'' to 
describe anything other than a fully prismatic instrument, unless the 
term was modified to indicate the true nature of the item. Under the 
rule, nonprismatic instruments could be identified as binoculars only 
if they incorporated a descriptive term such as ``binocular-
nonprismatic,'' ``binocular-mirror prismatic,'' or ``binocular-
nonprismatic mirror.'' It appears that most binoculars manufactured 
today are fully prismatic. Generally, the only nonprismatic binoculars 
available are marketed and sold as either toys or opera glasses, or 
field glasses, not binoculars. Therefore, the Commission initiated a 
rulemaking proceeding to determine whether the Binocular Rule should be 
repealed. The rulemaking has been completed. The Commission concluded 
that there was no continuing need for the Rule, and the Rule has been 
rescinded.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/23/95                    60 FR 27240
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/22/95
NPRM                            09/18/95                    60 FR 48065
NPRM Comment Period End         10/18/95
Final Action                    12/20/95                    60 FR 65529
Final Action Effective          12/20/95

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip S. Priesman, Division of Advertising Practices, 
Bureau of Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 
20580
Phone: 202 326-2484

RIN: 3084-AA65
_______________________________________________________________________




4364. ADVERTISING AND LABELING OF SLEEPING BAGS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  15 USC 41 et seq

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 400

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Sleeping Bag Rule, promulgated by the Commission on 
October 11, 1963, regulated the use of a ``cut size'' measurement of 
materials from which a sleeping bag is made to describe the size of a 
finished sleeping bag in advertising, labeling, or marking. The 
Commission reviewed the Sleeping Bag Rule as part of a periodic review 
to seek information about the costs and benefits of its rules and 
guides and their regulatory and economic impact. Based on this review, 
the Commission concluded that there may be no continuing need for this 
Rule. It appears that industry practice is to label sleeping bags with 
their finished size. Moreover, the National Conference on Weights and 
Measures' Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation, adopted by 47 
states, provides that sleeping bags must be labeled with their finished 
size. Accordingly, the Commission initiated a rulemaking proceeding to 
determine whether the Sleeping Bag Rule should be repealed. The 
rulemaking has been completed. The Commission concluded that there is 
no continuing need for the Rule, and the Rule has been rescinded.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/23/95                    60 FR 27240
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/22/95
NPRM                            09/18/95                    60 FR 48063
NPRM Comment Period End         10/18/95
Final Action                    12/20/95                    60 FR 65528
Final Action Effective          12/20/95

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Neil Blickman, Division of Enforcement, Bureau of 
Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20580
Phone: 202 326-3038

RIN: 3084-AA66
_______________________________________________________________________

[[Page 24028]]





4365. FAILURE TO DISCLOSE THE LETHAL EFFECTS OF INHALING QUICK-FREEZE 
SPRAY PRODUCTS USED FOR FROSTING COCKTAIL GLASSES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  15 USC et seq

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 417

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Quick Freeze Spray Rule was promulgated by the Commission 
on February 20, 1969. The Rule required a clear and conspicuous warning 
on aerosol spray products used for frosting beverage glasses which 
contained a compound known as Fluorocarbon 12 
(Dichlorodifluoromethane), also used as a coolant for automobile air 
conditioners and refrigerators. The warning stated that the contents 
should not be inhaled because inhalation could cause death or injury. 
Although the product is not harmful when used as directed, there had 
been several instances when death had occurred because individuals 
inhaled the quick-freeze spray for its intoxicating effects. 
Accordingly, the Commission concluded that it was in the public 
interest to caution consumers who might not be aware of the lethal 
effects of inhaling the product. Today, however, the products are no 
longer produced because the active ingredient is banned under the Clean 
Air Act. Accordingly, the Commission initiated a rulemaking proceeding 
to determine whether the Rule should be repealed. The rulemaking has 
been completed. The Commission concluded that there is no continuing 
need for the Rule, and the Rule has been rescinded.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/23/95                    60 FR 27244
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/22/95
NPRM                            09/18/95                    60 FR 48073
NPRM Comment Period End         10/18/95
Final Action                    12/21/95                    60 FR 66071
Final Action Effective          12/21/95

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: George Brent Mickum IV, Division of Enforcement, Bureau 
of Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20580
Phone: 202 326-3132

RIN: 3084-AA67
_______________________________________________________________________




4366. FAILURE TO DISCLOSE THAT SKIN IRRITATION MAY RESULT FROM WASHING 
OR HANDLING GLASS FIBER CURTAINS AND DRAPERIES AND GLASS FIBER CURTAIN 
AND DRAPERY FABRICS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  15 USC 41 et seq

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 413

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Fiberglass Curtain Rule was promulgated by the Commission 
on July 28, 1967. The Rule required marketers of fiberglass curtains or 
draperies and fiberglass curtain or drapery cloth to disclose that skin 
irritation may occur from handling these materials and from contact 
with clothing or other articles that have been washed with glass fiber 
products or in a container used for washing glass fiber products unless 
the container has been cleaned and the fibers removed. At the time the 
Rule was promulgated, members of the public had experienced skin 
irritation after washing or handling glass fiber curtains and draperies 
and glass fiber curtain and drapery fabrics. The Commission concluded 
that it was in the public interest to disclose to consumers that skin 
irritation could occur from handling these products and from body 
contact with clothing or other articles that had been washed with these 
products or in a container previously used for washing these products. 
Today, however, fiberglass fabric has been replaced by polyester and 
modacrylics in the drapery industry, and fiberglass fabrics are now 
used almost exclusively for specialized industrial purposes. 
Accordingly, the Commission initiated a rulemaking proceeding to 
determine whether the Rule should be repealed. The rulemaking has been 
completed. The Commission concluded that there is no continuing need 
for the Rule, and the Rule has been rescinded.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/23/95                    60 FR 27243
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/22/95
NPRM                            09/18/95                    60 FR 48071
NPRM Comment Period End         10/18/95
Final Action                    12/20/95                    60 FR 65532
Final Action Effective          12/20/95

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Edwin Rodriguez, Division of Enforcement, Bureau of 
Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20580
Phone: 202 326-3147

RIN: 3084-AA68
_______________________________________________________________________




4367. DECEPTIVE ADVERTISING AND LABELING AS TO SIZE OF TABLECLOTHS AND 
RELATED PRODUCTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  15 USC 41 et seq

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 404

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Tablecloth Rule was promulgated by the Commission on 
October 1, 1963. The Rule regulated the use of the ``cut size'' 
measurement of materials from which a tablecloth is made to describe 
the size of a finished tablecloth in advertising, labeling, or marking. 
The Commission reviewed the Tablecloth Rule as part of a periodic 
review to seek information about the costs and benefits of its rules 
and guides and their regulatory and economic impact. Based on this 
review, the Commission concluded that there may be no continuing need 
for this Rule. It appears that industry practice is to label 
tablecloths with their finished size. Moreover, the National Conference 
on Weights and Measures' Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation, 
adopted by 47 states, provides that tablecloths must be labeled with 
their finished size. Accordingly the Commission initiated a rulemaking 
proceeding to determine whether the Rule should be repealed. The 
rulemaking has been completed. The Commission concluded that there

[[Page 24029]]

is no continuing need for the Rule, and the Rule has been rescinded.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/23/95                    60 FR 27242
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/22/95
NPRM                            09/18/95                    60 FR 48067
NPRM Comment Period End         10/18/95
Final Action                    12/20/95                    60 FR 65530
Final Action Effective          12/20/95

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Neil Blickman, Division of Enforcement, Bureau of 
Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20580
Phone: 202 326-3038

RIN: 3084-AA69
_______________________________________________________________________




4368. DECEPTIVE ADVERTISING AND LABELING AS TO LENGTH OF EXTENSION 
LADDERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  15 USC 41 et seq

CFR Citation:  16 CFR 418

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Extension Ladder Rule was promulgated by the Commission 
on October 11, 1963. The Rule addressed representations regarding the 
length of extension ladders, requiring that any description of the 
length of the sections be accompanied by the maximum length of the 
ladder when fully extended. The Commission reviewed the Extension 
Ladder Rule as part of a periodic review to seek information about the 
costs and benefits of its rules and guides and their regulatory and 
economic impact. Based on this review, the Commission concluded that 
there may be no continuing need for this Rule. The American National 
Standards Institute (ANSI) standard A14, which addresses the labeling 
of ladders, requires specification of the maximum working length of an 
extension ladder. Moreover, it appears that industry practice is to 
label extension ladders in accordance with this industry standard. 
Accordingly, the Commission initiated a rulemaking proceeding to 
determine whether the Rule should be repealed. The rulemaking has been 
completed. The Commission concluded that there is no continuing need 
for the Rule, and the Rule has been rescinded.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/23/95                    60 FR 27242
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/22/95
NPRM                            09/18/95                    60 FR 48075
NPRM Comment Period End         10/18/95
Final Action                    12/20/95                    60 FR 65533
Final Action Effective          12/20/95

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Neil Blickman, Division of Enforcement, Bureau of 
Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20580
Phone: 202 326-3038

RIN: 3084-AA70
[FR Doc. 96-6558 Filed 05-10-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6750-01-F