Business Opportunity Rule, 76816-76865 [2011-30597]

Download as PDF 76816 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION 16 CFR Part 437 RIN 3084–AB04 Business Opportunity Rule Federal Trade Commission (FTC or Commission). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The Commission is adopting final amendments to its Trade Regulation Rule entitled ‘‘Disclosure Requirements and Prohibitions Concerning Business Opportunities’’ (‘‘Business Opportunity Rule’’ or ‘‘Rule’’). Among other things, the Business Opportunity Rule has been amended to broaden its scope to cover business opportunity sellers not covered by the interim Business Opportunity Rule, such as sellers of work-at-home opportunities, and to streamline and simplify the disclosures that sellers must provide to prospective purchasers. The final Rule is based upon the comments received in response to an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (‘‘ANPR’’), an Initial Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (‘‘INPR’’), a Revised Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (‘‘RNPR’’), a public workshop, a Staff Report, and other information discussed herein. This document also contains the text of the final Rule and the Rule’s Statement of Basis and Purpose (‘‘SBP’’), including a Regulatory Analysis. DATES: The provisions of the final Rule will become effective on March 1, 2012. ADDRESSES: Requests for copies of the final Rule and the SBP should be sent to Public Reference Branch, Room 130, Federal Trade Commission, 600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20580. The complete record of this proceeding is also available at that address. Relevant portions of the proceeding, including the final Rule and SBP, are available at https://www.ftc.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Christine M. Todaro, (202) 326–3711, Division of Marketing Practices, Room H–286, Bureau of Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, 600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20580. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The final Rule modifies the interim Business Opportunity Rule in two significant ways. First, the final Rule contains an expanded definition of ‘‘business opportunity’’ aimed at extending the scope of the Rule to business opportunities previously not covered, such as work-at-home programs. Second, although the final Rule’s scope is broader than the interim Business mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 SUMMARY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 Opportunity Rule, the compliance burden is reduced. Specifically, in contrast to the extensive disclosures previously required, the final Rule now requires that business opportunity sellers provide prospective customers with a substantially simplified and streamlined one-page disclosure document. The final Rule also adds affirmative prohibitions on misrepresentations and omissions, as well as disclosure requirements for sales conducted in Spanish and other languages besides English. Statement of Basis and Purpose Key Terms and Abbreviations Used Throughout This Statement of Basis and Purpose ‘‘Amended Franchise Rule’’ refers to the amended Franchise Rule published at 72 FR 15444 (Mar. 30, 2007) and codified at 16 CFR 436. ‘‘ANPR’’ refers to the Trade Regulation Rule on Franchising and Business Opportunity Ventures: Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, 62 FR 9115 (Feb. 28, 1997). ‘‘Initial Proposed Disclosure Document’’ refers to the original version of the Disclosure Document that was proposed in the INPR in 2006. ‘‘INPR’’ refers to the Initial Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for the Business Opportunity Rule, 71 FR 9054 (Apr. 12, 2006). ‘‘Interim Business Opportunity Rule’’ refers to the Business Opportunity Rule, codified at 16 CFR 437 that is currently in effect and is the subject of these amendment proceedings. ‘‘IPBOR’’ refers to the Initial Proposed Business Opportunity Rule, which was proposed in the INPR in 2006. ‘‘Macro Report’’ refers to Macro International, Inc.’s report to the FTC on the Disclosure Form, available at https://www.ftc.gov/bcp/ workshops/bizopps/disclosure-formreport.pdf. ‘‘Original Franchise Rule’’ refers to the original Franchise Rule published at 43 FR 59614 (Dec. 21, 1978). ‘‘RNPR’’ refers to the Revised Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for the Business Opportunity Rule, 73 FR 16110 (Mar. 26, 2008). ‘‘RPBOR’’ refers to the Revised Proposed Business Opportunity Rule, which was proposed in the RNPR in 2008. ‘‘Staff Report’’ refers to FTC staff’s Staff Report to the Federal Trade Commission and Proposed Revised Trade Regulation Rule (16 CFR Part 437). The Staff Report is available at https://www.ftc.gov/os/fedreg /2010/october/101028business opportunitiesstaffreport.pdf. ‘‘Workshop’’ refers to the June 1, 2009, public workshop held in Washington, DC, to discuss the proposed Disclosure Document and other aspects of the Business Opportunity Rule. ‘‘Workshop Notice’’ refers to the Federal Register Notice announcing the Workshop, 74 FR 18712 (Apr. 24, 2009). PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 I. Introduction A. Overview of the Franchise Rule and the Evolution of the Interim Business Opportunity Rule 1. The Franchise Rule On December 21, 1978, the Commission promulgated a Trade Regulation Rule entitled ‘‘Disclosure Requirements and Prohibitions Concerning Franchising and Business Opportunity Ventures’’ (the ‘‘Original Franchise Rule’’), to address deceptive and unfair practices in the sale of franchises and business opportunity ventures.1 The Original Franchise Rule covered, in a single Code of Federal Regulations part, both franchises and certain business opportunity ventures. With franchises, the franchisee sells goods or services that are associated with the franchisor’s trademark, and the franchisee is subject to significant control by, or receives significant assistance from, the franchisor. The franchisee typically distributes goods or services supplied by the seller or an affiliate and receives accounts or locations in which to conduct the business. By contrast, business opportunities often do not involve a trademark. Vending machines or rack display routes are typical examples of business opportunities. Based upon the original rulemaking record, the Commission found that unfair and deceptive practices were widespread in the sale of franchises and business opportunities, causing serious economic harm to consumers. The Commission adopted the Original Franchise Rule to prevent unfair and deceptive practices in the sale of franchises and business opportunities through pre-sale disclosure of specified items of material information. The purpose of the Original Franchise Rule was neither to regulate the substantive terms of a franchise or business opportunity agreement nor to regulate the relationship between the seller and the buyer. Rather, it was to ensure that sellers disclose material information to prospective buyers. The Original Franchise Rule was posited on the notion that a fully informed prospective buyer can determine whether a particular offering is in his or her best interest. The Original Franchise Rule required extensive disclosures on a score of specified topics, such as, information about the seller; the business background of the seller’s principals and their litigation and bankruptcy histories; the terms and conditions of 1 43 E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM FR 59614 (Dec. 21, 1978). 08DER2 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations the offer; statistical analyses of existing franchised and company-owned outlets; information about prior purchasers, including the names and addresses of at least 10 purchasers nearest the prospective buyer; and audited financial statements. The Commission recognized that requiring these extensive disclosures would likely impose significant compliance costs on businesses covered by the Original Franchise Rule. It therefore sought to strike the proper balance between prospective purchasers’ need for pre-sale disclosure and the burden imposed on those selling business ventures covered by the Rule. To achieve this balance, the Commission limited the scope of the Original Franchise Rule’s coverage in three significant ways. First, the Original Franchise Rule covered only those opportunities that required a purchaser to make a payment of at least $500 within the first six months of operation. In transactions where a purchaser may incur high financial losses if the seller withholds material information, the benefit for prospective purchasers of the Original Franchise Rule’s pre-sale disclosure requirements outweighs the sellers’ cost to make those disclosures. By contrast, when the investment required to purchase a business opportunity is comparatively small, prospective purchasers face a relatively small financial risk. In such circumstances, compliance costs may outweigh the benefits of pre-sale disclosure. Therefore, the Original Franchise Rule did not reach opportunities that charged lower fees. Second, the ‘‘inventory exemption’’ excluded certain types of payments from the Original Franchise Rule’s $500 minimum cost threshold. The ‘‘inventory exemption’’ is the franchise industry’s shorthand term for the Commission’s determination that, as a matter of policy, voluntary purchases of reasonable amounts of inventory at bona fide wholesale prices for resale do not count toward the required threshold payment. An important consequence of this policy determination was to eliminate from Original Franchise Rule coverage many pyramid marketing plans because purchasers of such plans typically do not make a required payment of or exceeding $500, but instead make voluntary purchases of inventory in reasonable amounts and at bona fide wholesale prices for resale. Third, in addition to franchise opportunities, the Commission focused the Original Franchise Rule on the types of business opportunities that the record showed were likely to result in VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 significant consumer injury, such as vending machines, rack displays, and similar opportunities, which frequently were sold through deceptive conduct. A feature common to these types of opportunities was the promise of assistance in securing locations or accounts. Thus, the Commission incorporated this characteristic into the Original Franchise Rule’s definitional elements to ensure coverage of demonstrably injurious schemes. Other forms of assistance that business opportunity sellers frequently offer— such as training and the buy-back and resale of goods assembled by the purchaser (an element of many craft assembly opportunities) did not bring a business opportunity within the scope of the Original Franchise Rule’s coverage. In addition to these limits on the scope of the Original Franchise Rule’s coverage—driven by balancing prospective purchasers’ need for presale disclosure against the burden imposed on business opportunity sellers—another aspect of the Original Franchise Rule’s language further limited the scope of coverage. Specifically, the Original Franchise Rule provided that a business opportunity was covered only if the purchaser of the opportunity sells goods or services directly to end-users other than the business opportunity seller. The effect of this limitation was to exclude many work-at-home opportunities—such as envelope stuffing and craft assembly ventures—from Original Franchise Rule coverage. In those opportunities, the purchaser typically performs work for the seller or produces various goods for the seller, who then purportedly distributes them to end-users. In 1995, as part of its systematic review of FTC rules, the Commission published in the Federal Register a request for comment on the Original Franchise Rule to determine its continued effectiveness and impact.2 Based upon the comments received during the rule review, the Commission tentatively determined to retain the Original Franchise Rule, but sought additional comment on possible amendments. To that end, in February 1997, the Commission published an ANPR, seeking comment on various issues, including whether the Commission should separate the disclosure requirements for business opportunities from those for franchises.3 Based upon comments responding to the ANPR, the Commission found that the Original Franchise Rule continued 2 60 3 62 PO 00000 FR 17656 (Apr. 7, 1995). FR 9115 (Feb. 28, 1997). Frm 00003 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76817 to serve a vital purpose and that pre-sale disclosure was necessary to protect purchasers of franchises and business opportunities from fraudulent and deceptive sales practices. At the same time, however, the Commission agreed with the overwhelming view of the commenters who suggested that there are material differences between franchises and business opportunities and that these two types of distinct business arrangements require separate disclosure approaches. For example, many of the Original Franchise Rule’s pre-sale disclosures, in particular those pertaining to the structure of the parties’ relationship, do not apply to the sale of most business opportunities because those sales typically involve comparatively simple contracts. In addition, the Commission recognized that the Original Franchise Rule’s detailed disclosure obligations may create barriers to entry for legitimate business opportunity sellers.4 Accordingly, in 1999, the Commission announced its intention to conduct a separate rulemaking proceeding for business opportunity sales.5 2. The Interim Business Opportunity Rule Much of the information revealed by the Commission’s regulatory review of the Original Franchise Rule highlighted the differences between franchises and business opportunity ventures, and the distinct regulatory challenges presented by these two types of offerings—that franchises typically are expensive and involve complex contractual licensing relationships, while business opportunity sales are generally less costly and involve comparatively simple purchase agreements that pose less of a financial risk to purchasers. Based on the record amassed during the review proceeding, the Commission concluded that the Original Franchise Rule’s extensive disclosure requirements imposed unnecessary compliance costs on both business opportunity sellers and buyers, and determined to bifurcate the Original Franchise Rule into two separate parts—one covering the sale of business format franchises 6 and one to govern the sale of business opportunities. Accordingly, in the ANPR, the Commission solicited 4 64 FR 57296 (Oct. 22, 1999). 5 Id. 6 The industry term ‘‘business format franchise’’ specifically refers to franchises in which franchisees operate under a common trademark or other commercial symbol and are required to adhere to the specific business format or method of doing business prescribed by the franchisor. Business format franchises are commonly called ‘‘franchises’’ by the general public, and the two terms are used interchangeably here. E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 76818 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations comment on several proposed regulatory modifications, including the creation of a separate trade regulation rule governing the sale of business opportunities.7 Subsequently, the Commission completed all procedural steps prescribed by Section 18 of the FTC Act to finalize the Amended Franchise Rule, along with a Statement of Basis and Purpose, in March 2007.8 At that time, the Amended Franchise Rule—no longer covering business opportunities—was codified at Part 436 in Title 16 of the CFR. The Original Franchise Rule with all definitional elements and references regarding business format franchising deleted, was retained and redesignated as Part 437. Part 437 was titled the ‘‘interim Business Opportunity Rule.’’ 9 The interim Business Opportunity Rule contained no new substantive disclosure requirements or prohibitions, and in all material respects was substantially identical to the Original Franchise Rule. Until the final Rule becomes effective, Part 437 governs sales of non-franchise business opportunities.10 B. Rule Amendment Proceedings mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 1. Initial Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Initial Proposed Business Opportunity Rule In 2006, having determined that a separate business opportunity rule was necessary, the Commission published an Initial Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (‘‘INPR’’), announcing its intention to proceed with its proposal for a separate Business Opportunity Rule (the ‘‘initial proposed Business Opportunity Rule’’ or ‘‘IPBOR’’).11 The INPR proposed to amend the interim Business Opportunity Rule by updating it, streamlining it, and expanding its scope of coverage.12 The IPBOR 7 62 FR at 9115. In response to the ANPR, the Commission received 166 written comments. The staff also held six public workshops on the issues raised in the comments, three of which specifically addressed business opportunities. 8 72 FR 15444 (Mar. 30, 2007). 9 For example, references to ‘‘franchisor’’ and ‘‘franchisee’’ used in the Original Franchise Rule were changed in the interim Business Opportunity Rule to ‘‘business opportunity seller’’ and ‘‘business opportunity purchaser,’’ and the Original Franchise Rule’s definition of ‘‘franchise’’ was changed to ‘‘business opportunity.’’ See id. 10 73 FR 16111, 16112 (Mar. 26, 2008). 11 71 FR 19054 (Apr. 12, 2006). 12 The INPR also specified the process the Commission would follow in amending the Business Opportunity Rule. Pursuant to the Commission’s Rules of Practice, 16 CFR 1.20, the Commission determined to use a modified version of the rulemaking process set forth in section 1.13 of those Rules. Specifically, the Commission announced that it would publish a Notice of VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 contained an expansive definition of ‘‘business opportunity’’ that encompassed business opportunities previously covered by the Original Franchise Rule as well as work-at home, medical billing, and multi-level marketing (MLM) 13 operations. It also eliminated the $500 threshold for Rule coverage.14 Streamlining the interim Business Opportunity Rule and tailoring it to fit business opportunities (as opposed to business format franchises) has been a primary focus of this proceeding. Both the Original Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule require extensive disclosures covering over twenty specified topics. In the INPR, the Commission recognized that these extensive disclosure requirements entail disproportionate compliance costs for sellers of comparatively lowcost business opportunity ventures.15 Therefore, the Commission proposed to mitigate the compliance burden by simplifying and streamlining the disclosure requirements.16 Specifically, the INPR proposed a one-page business opportunity pre-sale disclosure document (the ‘‘initial proposed disclosure document’’) with only six required material disclosures.17 The initial proposed disclosure document was intended to provide prospective purchasers with essential material information they could use in making a purchase decision. The INPR proposed to require sellers to use the Proposed Rulemaking, with a 60-day comment period, followed by a 40-day rebuttal period. In addition, pursuant to Section 18(c) of the FTC Act, the Commission announced that it would hold hearings with cross-examination and rebuttal submissions only if an interested party requested a hearing. The Commission also stated that, if requested to do so, it would contemplate holding one or more informal public workshops in lieu of hearings. Finally, pursuant to 16 CFR 1.13(f), the Commission announced that staff would issue a Report on the Business Opportunity Rule (‘‘Staff Report’’), which would be subject to additional public comment. 71 FR at 19079–80. 13 Multi-level marketing is one form of direct selling, and refers to a business model in which a company distributes products through a network of distributors who earn income from their own retail sales of the product and from retail sales made by the distributors’ direct and indirect recruits. Because they earn a commission from the sales their recruits make, each member in the MLM network has an incentive to continue recruiting additional sales representatives into their ‘‘down lines.’’ See Peter J. Vander Nat & William W. Keep, Marketing Fraud: An Approach to Differentiating Multilevel Marketing from Pyramid Schemes, 21 J. Pub. Pol’y & Marketing 140 (Spring 2002). 14 Promoters of business opportunities were able to evade coverage under the Original Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule by pricing their offerings opportunities below $500, the monetary threshold of coverage. 15 71 FR at 19057. 16 Id. 17 71 FR at 19091. PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 exact form and language set forth by the Commission and to include information regarding (1) the seller; (2) earnings claims; (3) legal actions involving the offered business and its key personnel; (4) the existence of cancellation or refund policies; (5) the number of cancellation or refund requests; and (6) references.18 In response to the INPR, the Commission received more than 17,000 comments, the overwhelming majority of which came from individuals active in the MLM industry.19 MLM companies, their representatives and trade associations, as well as individual participants in various MLM plans, expressed grave concern about the burdens the IPBOR would impose on them and urged the Commission to exclude them from the scope of the IPBOR, to implement various safe harbor provisions, and to reduce the required disclosures.20 The Commission also received approximately 187 comments, primarily from individual consumers or consumer groups, in favor of the IPBOR.21 Only a handful of comments came from non-MLM companies and industry groups, expressing various concerns about obligations that the IPBOR would impose upon them.22 None of the comments addressed the form of the initial proposed disclosure document. 2. The Revised Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Revised Proposed Business Opportunity Rule Based on an extensive review of the comments received in response to the INPR and the Commission’s law enforcement history, the Commission issued a revised Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (‘‘RNPR’’) on March 28, 2008, that set forth a revised proposed Rule (the ‘‘Revised Proposed Business Opportunity Rule’’ or ‘‘RPBOR’’) that was more narrowly tailored than the IPBOR.23 In the RNPR, the Commission recognized that there were two main problems with the IPBOR’s breadth of coverage. First, the IPBOR would have unintentionally swept in numerous commercial arrangements, including 18 71 FR at 19068. responding to the INPR are available at https://www.ftc.gov/os/comments/ businessopprule/index.shtm. References to INPR comments are cited herein as: Name of the commenter-INPR (e.g., Avon-INPR). 20 Thousands of comments were form letters submitted by participants in various MLM programs. 73 FR at 16113. 21 Numerous letters came from individuals having negative experiences with various MLMs. 73 FR at 16113 n.37. 22 73 FR at 16113. 23 Id. at 16110. 19 Comments E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 retail product distribution, training and/ or educational organizations, where there was little or no evidence that fraud was occurring.24 Recognizing this legitimate concern, the Commission, in the RNPR, proposed to narrow the definition of ‘‘business opportunity.’’ Specifically, the RPBOR provided that the ‘‘required payment’’ prong of the business opportunity definition would not include payments for the purchase of reasonable amounts of inventory at bona fide wholesale prices; 25 eliminated as an element of the business opportunity definition the making of an earnings claim; 26 and narrowed the types of ‘‘business assistance’’ that would trigger the business opportunity definition to just those types of assistance that are the hallmark of business opportunity fraud: Location, account, and ‘‘buy-back’’ assistance.27 Second, the Commission determined that the IPBOR was unworkable with respect to MLMs and would have imposed greater burdens on the MLM industry than other types of business opportunity sellers without sufficient countervailing benefits to consumers. After careful consideration of the record, the Commission decided to narrow the scope of the RPBOR to avoid broadly sweeping in all sellers of MLM opportunities. This decision was based on the overwhelming majority of the approximately 17,000 comments that argued that the IPBOR failed to differentiate between unlawful pyramid schemes—which the Commission intended to cover—and legitimate companies using an MLM model. Finally, the RPBOR eliminated two disclosures that would have been required by the IPBOR—information 24 Id. As one commenter described it, the IPBOR would have swept in traditional arrangements for distribution of ‘‘food and beverages, construction equipment, manufactured homes, electronic components, computer systems, medical supplies and equipment, automotive parts, automotive tools and other tools, petroleum products, industrial chemicals, office supplies and equipment, and magazines.’’ IBA–INPR at 5; see also TimberlandINPR (noting that numerous manufacturers structure their retail distribution in this manner). 25 This amendment was based on concerns raised by some commenters that if a ‘‘required payment’’ did not exclude the purchase of inventory, many traditional product distribution arrangements could be brought within the scope of the Rule. 73 FR at 16113. 26 This amendment was based on concerns raised by some commenters that a broad range of commercial arrangements easily would fall under the business opportunity definition if the company made some representation about sales or profits sufficient to constitute an earnings claim. Id. at 16114; see also infra Section III.A.3. 27 Id. at 16123. The Commission eliminated two additional types of assistance that would have triggered the Rule’s strictures and disclosure obligations—tracking payments and providing training. VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:47 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 about legal actions pertaining to a business opportunity seller’s sales personnel, and the number of cancellation or refund requests the seller received.28 Eliminating the disclosure of legal actions involving sales employees was based on the Commission’s recognition that the burden of collecting litigation histories for every sales person was not outweighed by the corresponding benefit to prospective purchasers.29 With respect to the disclosure of the number of cancellation or refund requests received, the Commission determined that such disclosure was not useful, and further, may have had the perverse effect of discouraging legitimate businesses from offering refunds.30 The RNPR sought public comment on issues relevant to the Commission’s consideration of the RPBOR, including whether the RPBOR would adequately accomplish the Commission’s stated purpose of protecting consumers against fraud and, if it did not, what alternatives the Commission could consider.31 In contrast to the INPR, which generated more than 17,000 comments, the Commission received fewer than 125 comments and rebuttal comments in response to the RNPR.32 Again, however, the vast majority of commenters were from the MLM industry, but this time they supported the Commission’s proposal to narrow the scope of the Business Opportunity Rule, albeit with suggestions for finetuning.33 It is noteworthy that only one comment came from a business opportunity seller.34 The Commission also received comments from two consumer groups 35 and approximately twelve individuals 36 who expressed their disappointment that the FTC’s proposed rule would exclude MLMs from coverage. 28 Id. at 16125. 29 Id. 30 Id. 31 Id. at 16133. responding to the RNPR are available at https://www.ftc.gov/os/comments/ bizoprevised/index.shtm. References to RNPR comments are cited herein as: Name of commenterRNPR. 33 Some commenters suggested changes to the language of certain definitions proposed in the RNPR to ensure that the multi-level marketing industry was not inadvertently swept into the ambit of the rule. See, e.g., DSA–RNPR; Babener-RNPR; IBA–RNPR. 34 Planet Antares-RNPR. 35 The two consumer groups are the Consumer Awareness Institute (‘‘CAI’’) and Pyramid Scheme Alert (‘‘PSA’’). 36 Some letters came from individuals having negative experiences with MLMs. 32 Comments PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76819 3. Consumer Testing of Disclosure Document and Public Workshop In the RNPR, the Commission announced that it had retained a consultant to assess the proposed disclosure document, with the objective of achieving the proper format and content for communicating material information to consumers. Following publication of the RNPR, Macro International, Inc. (‘‘Macro’’), the FTC’s consultant, conducted extensive consumer testing of the initial proposed disclosure document that resulted in substantial improvement to both the layout and the wording of the form.37 The Commission made Macro’s report as well as the revised proposed Business Opportunity Disclosure Document (‘‘revised proposed disclosure document’’) 38 public in a Federal Register Notice (‘‘Workshop Notice’’) that also announced a one-day public workshop in Washington, DC.39 The Workshop Notice focused on whether the revised proposed disclosure document was an effective means of conveying material information to prospective purchasers of business opportunities. The Workshop Notice also sought comment to further develop the public record on issues that had been raised in the comments received in response to the RNPR. Five individuals who represented a range of interests in the proposed Rule were chosen to participate as panelists, including a federal law enforcer, a state law enforcer, a consumer advocate, the general counsel of a national multi-level marketing company, and a former director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.40 Staff convened the public workshop with these five panelists in Washington, DC, on June 1, 2009. At the conclusion of the workshop discussion of the revised proposed disclosure document, panelists and audience members were invited to express their views about other issues related to the RPBOR.41 Following 37 A copy of the expert’s report to the FTC, ‘‘Design and Testing of Business Opportunity Disclosures,’’ (‘‘Macro Report’’) is available at https://www.ftc.gov/bcp/workshops/bizopps/ disclosure-form-report.pdf. 38 The version of the revised proposed disclosure document that was tested by Macro inadvertently omitted the phrase ‘‘or pay any money’’ from the conclusion of the penultimate sentence of the revised proposed disclosure document. Macro determined that this omission had no effect on the results of its testing. See Macro Report at 2. 39 See 74 FR 18712 (Apr. 24, 2009). 40 Commission staff selected individuals as panelists based upon their comments, backgrounds, and interest in the subject matter. 41 A copy of the transcript of the June 1, 2009 workshop is available at https://www.ftc.gov/bcp/ workshops/bizopps/index.shtml. References to the E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM Continued 08DER2 76820 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations robust discussion on various topics, the Commission received follow-up written comment from six individuals and entities.42 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 4. Staff Report Pursuant to the Rule amendment process announced in the INPR, the Commission’s Bureau of Consumer Protection issued a Staff Report on the Business Opportunity Rule in November 2010.43 The Staff Report explained in detail the history of the Rule amendment proceeding and summarized the issues raised during the various notice and comment periods, particularly those raised in response to the RNPR. It also addressed the public workshop discussion and subsequent comments, as well as additional issues that the staff raised on its own initiative, based on the Commission’s law enforcement experience. Twenty-seven comments were submitted in response to the Staff Report,44 including eleven comments submitted by consumer group Consumer Awareness Institute (‘‘CAI’’). The Commission also received comments from the Department of Justice (‘‘DOJ’’), the Direct Selling Association (‘‘DSA’’), MLM companies,45 one franchise lead generator, a consumer group named Pyramid Scheme Alert (‘‘PSA’’), and ten individuals. A few commenters suggested changes to some of the Rule’s definitions and the scope of coverage,46 while others encouraged the Commission to adopt the Rule as recommended in the Staff Report.47 The majority of comments submitted by individuals, and the comments transcript from the June 2009 Business Opportunity Rule public workshop are cited herein as: Name of commenter, June 09 Tr at page no. (e.g., Jost, June 09 Tr at 12). 42 Comments received in response to the Workshop Notice are available at https://www.ftc. gov/os/comments/bizoprulerevwrkshp/index.shtm. References to workshop comments are cited herein as: Name of commenter-Workshop. 43 See Bureau of Consumer Protection, Staff Report to the Federal Trade Commission and Proposed Revised Trade Regulation Rule (16 CFR Part 437) (Nov. 2010) (‘‘Staff Report’’). The Staff Report is available at https://www.ftc.gov/os/fedreg/ 2010/october/ 101028businessopportunitiesstaffreport.pdf. In November, the Commission published a notice in the Federal Register announcing the availability of, and seeking comment on, the Staff Report. See 75 FR 68559 (Nov. 8, 2010). 44 Comments received in response to the Staff Report are available at https://www.ftc.gov/os/ comments/bizoppstaffreport/index.shtm. References to Staff Report comments are cited herein as: Name of commenter—Staff Report. 45 Comments on behalf of the MLM industry were submitted by Tupperware and Primerica. 46 E.g., Dub-Staff Report; Tupperware-Staff Report. 47 DOJ-Staff Report; Primerica-Staff Report; DSAStaff Report. VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:47 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 submitted by CAI and PSA, opposed the Commission’s decision to narrow the scope of the Rule to avoid broadly sweeping in MLMs.48 In crafting the final Rule, the Commission has carefully considered the comments received in response to the Staff Report and throughout the Rule amendment proceeding.49 C. Overview of the Final Rule The final Rule significantly modifies the scope, disclosure requirements, and prohibitions of the interim Business Opportunity Rule. This proceeding was, in major part, prompted by the recognition that the interim Business Opportunity Rule’s extensive disclosure requirements are ill-suited to many business opportunities and place unnecessary compliance costs on both business opportunity sellers and buyers. Similarly, commenters have observed that business opportunities and business format franchises are distinct business arrangements that pose very different regulatory challenges. To account for these differences, to avoid unnecessary compliance burdens, and to ensure that consumers are best protected against deceptive practices in the sale of business opportunities, the Commission has amended the interim Rule to: (1) Expand its scope to cover many business opportunities that were not covered under the interim Business Opportunity Rule; (2) Streamline pre-sale disclosures; (3) Prohibit various specific misrepresentations and other misleading practices often engaged in by fraudulent business opportunity sellers; and (4) Require that for offers conducted in Spanish or other languages besides English, that the disclosures be provided in the same language as the offer is made. The sections that follow describe these four aspects of the final Rule. 1. Scope of the Final Rule The definition of ‘‘business opportunity’’ dictates the scope of coverage under the final Rule. To ensure appropriate coverage, this definition has been crafted to capture the sale of business opportunities that historically have been associated with deceptive 48 E.g., CAI-Staff Report; PSA-Staff-Report; O’Handley-Staff Report; Brooks-Staff Report; Johnson-Staff Report. 49 The Staff Report comments addressing specific provisions of the Rule are discussed within the substantive discussions on the relevant provisions. The comments regarding MLMs are discussed in Subsection C.1.c below, addressing the Commission’s decision to exclude MLMs from coverage. PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 practices. As discussed below, the final Rule (1) extends coverage to those types of opportunities that previously were not covered under the Original Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule; (2) continues to cover business opportunities that previously were covered under the Original Franchise Rule and interim Business Opportunity Rule; and (3) avoids broadly sweeping in MLMs and certain other types of arrangements that are not characterized by the deceptive and unfair practices the final Rule aims to prevent. a. The Final Rule Covers Many Business Opportunities That Previously Escaped Coverage The final Rule includes an expansive definition of ‘‘business opportunity’’ aimed at extending the scope of the Rule to certain business opportunities— namely work-at-home opportunities such as envelope-stuffing, product assembly, and medical billing—that often were not covered by the interim Business Opportunity Rule. The Commission’s law enforcement experience and complaint data show that these types of business opportunities are sources of prevalent and persistent problems. These opportunities, however, often escaped coverage of the Original Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule due to the following two limitations: (1) A minimum payment threshold set at $500; and (2) coverage was limited to business opportunities in which products were sold directly to third party end-users, rather than back to the business opportunity seller.50 Each limitation is discussed below. First, the Original Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule covered only business opportunity ventures costing $500 or more. Ventures such as product assembly, medical billing, and envelope stuffing, however, often require payments of less than $500 and thus were not covered by the interim Business Opportunity Rule.51 50 73 FR at 16112. e.g., FTC v. Med. Billers Network, Inc., No. 05 CIV 2014 (RJH) (S.D.N.Y. 2005) ($200–$295 fee); FTC v. Sun Ray Trading, No. Civ. 05–20402–CIV– Seitz/Bandstra (S.D. Fla. 2005) ($160 fee); FTC v. Wholesale Mktg. Group, LLC, No. 05 CV 6485 (N.D. Ill. 2005) ($65 to $175 registration fees); FTC v. Vinyard Enters., Inc., No. 03–23291–CIV– ALTONAGA (S.D. Fla. 2003) ($139 fee); FTC v. Leading Edge Processing, Inc., 6:02–CV–681–ORL– 19 DAB (M.D. Fla. 2002) ($150 fee); FTC v. Healthcare Claims Network, Inc., No. 2:02–CV– 4569 MMM (AMWx) (C.D. Cal. 2002) ($485 fee); FTC v. Stuffingforcash.com, Corp., No. 92 C 5022 (N.D. Ill. 2002) ($45 fee); FTC v. Kamaco Int’l, No. CV 02–04566 LGB (RNBx) (C.D. Cal. 2002) ($42 fee); FTC v. Medicor LLC, No. CV01–1896 (CBM) (C.D. Cal. 2001) ($375 fee); FTC v. SkyBiz.com, No. 01– 51 See, E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations Some commenters asserted that setting the threshold for coverage at a specific dollar amount simply provides scam operators a means to circumvent the Rule, noting that sellers of business opportunities may charge less than $500 to skirt the interim Business Opportunity Rule’s disclosure requirements.52 The Commission has concluded that the scope of the final Rule should be broad enough to reach business opportunities that the Commission’s law enforcement history and consumer complaints show are a widespread and persistent problem, regardless of the price at which they are offered. Accordingly, the final Rule eliminates the monetary threshold. A second limitation to the Original Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule’s scope of coverage was the requirement that the purchaser of the opportunity had to sell goods or services directly to third party endusers—someone other than the business opportunity seller. The effect of this limitation was to exclude most work-athome opportunities—such as envelope stuffing and craft assembly ventures— from coverage. Promoters of these types of opportunities often tell prospective purchasers that they (1) will work directly for the seller or a third party the seller identifies or (2) will produce various goods for the seller, who will then purportedly distribute the goods to end-users or retail markets.53 In order to reach these types of business opportunities, coverage of the final Rule is not limited to transactions where the purchaser of the opportunity sells goods or services directly to individuals other than the business opportunity seller. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 b. The Final Rule Continues To Cover Those Types of Opportunities Covered Under the Original Franchise Rule and the Interim Business Opportunity Rule In addition to those types of business opportunities that often evaded coverage under the Original Franchise Rule and Interim Business Opportunity Rule, the final Rule continues to cover the types of business opportunities that CV–0396–EA (X) (N.D. Okla. 2001) ($125 fee); FTC v. Para-Link Int’l, No. 8:00–CV–2114–T–27E (M.D. Fla. 2000) ($395 to $495 fee); see also Consumer Fraud in the United States: The Second FTC Survey (October 2007) at 48, available at https:// www.ftc.gov/opa/2007/10/fraud.pdf (indicating a median payment for work-at-home schemes of $200). 52 See 71 FR at 19079 (citing comments submitted in earlier proceedings by NCL, SBA Advocacy, Finnigan, and Purvin). 53 E.g., FTC v. Darling Angel Pin Creations, Inc., No. 8:10–cv–00335–JSM–TGW (M.D. Fla. Feb. 2010); FTC v. Indep. Mktg. Exch. Inc., No. 1:10–cv– 00568–NLH–KMW (D.N.J. Feb. 2010); FTC v. Preferred Platinum Svcs. Network LLC, No. 3:10– cv–00538–MLC–LHG (D.N.J. Feb. 2010). VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 76821 previously had been covered, such as vending machine opportunities, rack display opportunities, and similar arrangements. The Commission’s law enforcement experience demonstrates that sales of these types of opportunities are fraught with unfair and deceptive practices, in particular, false or unsubstantiated earnings claims. Indeed, such practices are widespread in promotion and sale of such business opportunities. Since 1995, the Commission has brought over 80 law enforcement actions 54 in connection with more than ten law enforcement sweeps 55 that targeted business opportunity scams involving the sale of vending machines,56 rack displays,57 public telephones,58 Internet kiosks,59 and 900-number ventures,60 among others. These persistent scams will continue to be covered under the final Rule. 54 In bringing these FTC law enforcement actions, the FTC partnered with sister federal agencies— such as the DOJ and the United States Postal Inspection Service—and with the various state attorneys general, including the District of Columbia. Thus, these ‘‘sweeps’’ entailed many more actions besides those brought by the FTC. 55 E.g., Project Fal$e Hope$, see FTC News Release: Federal, State Law Enforcers Complete Bogus Business Opportunity Sweep (Dec. 12, 2006), available at https://www.ftc.gov/os/caselist/ projectfalsehopes.shtm; Project Biz Opp Flop, see FTC News Release: Criminal and Civil Enforcement Agencies Launch Major Assault Against Promoters of Business Opportunity and Work-at-Home Schemes (Feb. 22, 2005), available at https:// www.ftc.gov/opa/2005/02/bizoppflop.htm; Project Busted Opportunity, see FTC News Release: State, Federal Law Enforcers Launch Sting on Business Opportunity, Work-at-Home Scams (June 20, 2002), available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/2002/06/ bizopswe.shtm; Project Biz-illion$, see FTC News Release: State-Federal Crackdown on Phony Business Opportunities Intensifies (March 6, 2000), available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/2000/03/ biz.shtm; Operation Money Pit, see FTC News Release: ‘‘Operation Money Pit’’ Targets Fraudulent Business Opportunity Schemes (Feb. 20, 1998), available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/1998/02/ moneypit.shtm; Project Vend Up Broke, see FTC News Release: FTC Announces ‘‘Operation Vend Up Broke’’ (Sept. 3, 1998), available at https:// www.ftc.gov/opa/1998/09/vendup2.shtm; Project Trade Name Games, see FTC News Release: Display Racks for Trade-Named Toys and Trinkets rre Lastest in Business Opportunity Fraud Schemes (Aug. 5, 1997), available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/ 1997/08/tradenam.shtm; Operation Missed Fortune FTC News Release: Operation Missed Fortune (Nov. 13, 1996), available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/ 1996/11/misdfort.shtm; Project Telesweep, see FTC News Release: Major State-Fed Crackdown Targets Business Opportunity Scam ‘‘Epidemic’’ (July 18, 1995), available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/1995/07/ scam.shtm. Recent law enforcement sweeps ‘‘Operation Bottom Dollar’’ and ‘‘Operation Short Change,’’ challenged, among other things, ‘‘work-athome’’ opportunities. See FTC News Release: FTC Cracks Down on Scammers Trying to Take Advantage of the Economic Downturn (Feb. 17, 2010), available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/2010/02/ bottomdollar.shtm; FTC News Release: FTC Targets Scams Spawned by Economic Downturn (July 1, 2009), available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/2009/07/ shortchange.shtm. 56 See, e.g., United States v. Lifestyle Vending, Inc., No. CV–06–6421 (E.D.N.Y. 2006); FTC v. Am. Entm’t Distribs., Inc., No. 04–22431–CIV–Huck (2004); FTC v. Inspired Ventures, Inc., No. 02– 21760–CIV–Jordan (S.D. Fla. 2002); FTC v. Essex Mktg. Group, Inc., No. 2:02–cv–03415–TCP–AKT (E.D.N.Y 2002); United States v. Univend, LLC, No. 02–0433–P–L (S.D. Ala. 2002); FTC v. Pathway Merch., Inc., No. 01–CIV–8987 (S.D.N.Y. 2001); United States v. Photo Vend Int’l, Inc., No. 98– 6935–CIV–Ferguson (S.D. Fla. 1998); FTC v. Hi Tech Mint Sys., Inc., No. 98 CIV 5881 (JES) (S.D.N.Y. 1998); FTC v. Claude A. Blanc, Jr., No. 2:92–CV–129–WCO (N.D. Ga. 1992); see also FTC News Release: FTC Announces ‘‘Operation Vend Up Broke’’ (Sept. 3, 1998), available at https:// www.ftc.gov/opa/1998/09/vendup2.shtm (FTC and 10 states announce 40 enforcement actions against fraudulent vending business opportunities). 57 See, e.g., United States v. Elite Designs, Inc., No. CA 05 058 (D.R.I. 2005); United States. v. QX Int’l, No. 398–CV–0453–D (N.D. Tex. 1998); FTC v. Carousel of Toys, No. 97–8587–CIV–UngaroBenages (S.D. Fla. 1997); FTC v. Raymond Urso, No. 97–2680–CIV–Ungaro-Benages (S.D. Fla. 1997); FTC v. Infinity Multimedia, Inc., No. 96–6671–CIV– Gonzalez (S.D. Fla. 1996); FTC v. O’Rourke, No. 93– 6511–CIV–Ferguson (S.D. Fla. 1993); see also FTC News Release: Display Racks for Trade-Named Toys and Trinkets are the Latest in Business Opportunity Fraud Schemes (Aug. 5, 1997), available at https:// www.ftc.gov/opa/1997/08/tradenam.htm (FTC and 8 states filed 18 enforcement actions against sellers of bogus display opportunities that use trademarks of well-known companies). 58 See, e.g., FTC v. Advanced Pub. Commc’ns Corp., No. 00–00515–CIV–Ungaro-Benages (S.D. Fla. 2000); FTC v. Ameritel Payphone Distribs., Inc., No. 00–0514–CIV–Gold (S.D. Fla. 2000); FTC v. ComTel Commc’ns Global Network, Inc., No. 96– 3134–CIV-Highsmith (S.D. Fla. 1996); FTC v. Intellipay, Inc., No. H92 2325 (S.D. Tex. 1992). 59 See, e.g., FTC v. Bikini Vending Corp., No. CV– S–05–0439–LDG–RJJ (D. Nev. 2005); FTC v. Network Serv. Depot, Inc., No. CV–S0–05–0440– LDG–LRL (D. Nev. 2005); United States v. Am. Merch. Tech., No. 05–20443–CIV–Huck (S.D. Fla. 2005); FTC v. Hart Mktg. Enter. Ltd., Inc., No. 98– 222–CIV–T–23 E (M.D. Fla. 1998); see also FTC v. FutureNet, Inc., No. CV–98–1113 GHK (BQRx) (C.D. Cal. 1998); FTC v. TouchNet, Inc., No. C98–0176 (W.D. Wash. 1998). 60 See, e.g., FTC v. Bureau 2000 Int’l, Inc., No. 2:96–cv–01473–WMB–RC (C.D. Cal. 1996); FTC v. Genesis One Corp., No. CV–96–1516–MRP (MCX) (C.D. Cal. 1996); FTC v. Innovative Telemedia, Inc., No. 96– 8140–CIV–Ferguson (S.D. Fla. 1996); FTC v. Ad-Com Int’l, No. 96–1472 LGB (VAP) (C.D. Cal. 1996). 61 See 73 FR at 16120. PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 c. The Final Rule Avoids Broadly Sweeping in MLMs The final Rule’s definition of business opportunity avoids broadly sweeping in all sellers of MLM opportunities.61 The decision in the RPBOR to exclude MLMs from the scope of the Rule’s coverage was based on the overwhelming majority of the approximately 17,000 comments that argued that the IPBOR failed to differentiate between unlawful pyramid E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 76822 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations schemes—which the Commission intended to cover—and legitimate companies using an MLM model. As detailed more fully in the RNPR, several common themes emerged from the numerous comments submitted by the MLM industry. Many commenters suggested that the low economic risks of participating in a typical MLM do not justify imposing burdensome regulations that would threaten to strangle the MLM industry.62 These commenters focused on the low fees— often less than $100—that top MLM companies charge prospective distributors for the right to sell their products, and on the relatively low risk that consumers would lose money on large purchases of inventory.63 In addition, industry commenters contended that the various disclosure requirements were ill-suited for the MLM business model and that many of the disclosure obligations would show direct selling companies in a distorting negative light.64 For example, according to one commenter, the requirement to disclose prior legal actions would cast successful and long-established companies in a worse light than fly-bynight frauds simply because larger companies with more sales representatives and more years of operation are likely to get involved in a larger number of lawsuits.65 Moreover, industry commenters uniformly asserted that the cost of compliance with the IPBOR would be extremely high for them—first, from the burden of developing, providing and keeping records of proposed disclosures, and second, from the impaired ability to recruit prospective distributors.66 Finally, industry commenters argued that unlike traditional business opportunities, the MLM industry is not permeated with fraud.67 In contrast to the overwhelming majority of comments that opposed regulating MLMs through the Business Opportunity Rule, only a small minority of commenters were in favor of a rule that would cover MLMs. These commenters included two consumer groups, CAI and PSA, a few consumer advocates, individuals who regretted becoming involved in MLMs, and other MLM participants.68 Many of the consumer advocates contended that the MLM industry is comprised primarily of pyramid schemes masquerading as 62 Id. at 16114. 63 Id. 64 Id. at 16115. 65 Id. 66 Id. at 16116. at 16114. 68 Id. at 16116. 67 Id. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 legitimate companies.69 The commenters also asserted that MLMs deceptively market their distributorships as a low-risk opportunity with high earnings potential, when in fact, the costs of participating in an MLM can be high and the earnings comparatively small.70 In the RNPR, the Commission concluded that although there is significant concern that some pyramid schemes may masquerade as legitimate MLMs, assessing the incidence of such practices is difficult and indeed, determining whether an MLM is a pyramid scheme requires a factintensive, case-by-case analysis. Further, the record developed was insufficient as a basis for crafting MLM disclosures that would effectively help consumers make an informed decision about the risks of joining a particular MLM. Based on the record and the Commission’s law enforcement experience, the RNPR announced the Commission’s determination that it would not be practicable to apply the requirements of the proposed Rule to MLM companies. Drawing on its law enforcement experience, the Commission acknowledged that some MLMs do engage in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, including operating pyramid schemes or making unsubstantiated earnings claims that cause consumer harm. The Commission, however, was not persuaded that workable, meaningful disclosures could be devised that would help consumers identify a fraudulent pyramid scheme. This being the case, the Commission decided that the proposed Rule was too blunt an instrument to alleviate fraud in the sale of MLMs. The Commission therefore determined to continue to challenge unfair or deceptive practices in the MLM industry through law enforcement actions alleging violations of Section 5 of the FTC Act and not through the Business Opportunity Rule. The Staff Report’s recommendations were consistent with this decision.71 In response to the Staff Report, the Commission received 24 comments addressing the Commission’s decision to narrow the scope of the Rule to avoid broadly sweeping in MLMs. 69 CAI–INPR at 2 (‘‘I can certify that MLM (sic) are not direct selling programs, but chain selling programs’’); CAI–INPR Rebuttal of DSA Comments at 3 (‘‘The Direct Selling Association (DSA), recently taken over by chain sellers now promotes chain selling (pyramid marketing)—even more than legitimate direct selling’’); see also Brooks-INPR at 2 (‘‘In my opinion, most MLM firms operate in a deceptive or fraudulent manner’’). 70 PSA–INPR at 3–4; Brooks-INPR at 4; JohnsonINPR at 1. 71 Staff Report at 20. PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 Specifically, 19 comments opposed the Commission’s decision,72 one commenter agreed with the decision to narrow the scope of the Rule, but suggested modifying the Rule to contain bright line exemptions and to clarify the definition of ‘‘required payment,’’ 73 and two commenters advocated that the Commission adopt the Rule as recommended.74 Commenters opposing the decision to avoid sweeping MLMs within the scope of the Rule’s coverage set forth the same basic premise—that MLMs frequently misrepresent the level of earnings achieved by their distributors and therefore, should be subject to regulation.75 More specifically, many of the commenters advocated that the MLM industry should be required to disclose the average income of their participants.76 The Commission has carefully considered the comments submitted in response to the Staff Report on the issue of MLMs. While some of the commenters provided an analysis of the MLM industry with concrete examples of the types of problems that exist within that industry,77 many did not. Instead, many commenters expressed in general terms their low opinion of MLMs and their general opinion that MLMs should be regulated.78 More to the point, none of the commenters provided persuasive arguments for why the Business Opportunity Rule is the proper vehicle to address the problems they identified within the MLM industry. Before discussing the comments in further detail, however, one point in the rulemaking record requires clarification. Several comments focused on the 72 These included eleven comments submitted by consumer group CAI, as well as comments submitted by PSA and seven individuals. In addition, two individuals submitted comments supporting the statistical analysis provided by CAI President, Jon Taylor. See McKee-Staff Report; Ashby-Staff Report. 73 Tupperware-Staff Report. 74 DSA–Staff Report; Primerica-Staff Report. 75 See, e.g., O’Handley-Staff Report (‘‘I personally believe that this industry is a borderline scam at best and needs MORE oversight than everyone elseNOT LESS.’’); Welling-Staff Report (‘‘I find it amazing that * * * the MLM industry has little or no regulations.’’). 76 See, e.g., Barrett-Staff Report (FTC should ‘‘demand truthful disclosure of income potentials for MLM’’); Brooks-Staff Report (MLMs should produce ‘‘actual, verifiable data concerning the earnings and losses of their distributors’’); CAI–Staff Report at 7–3 (advocating for the disclosure of ‘‘information supporting earnings claims’’). 77 See, e.g., CAI-Staff Report (reporting research on the MLM industry and quoting representations made by various MLMs). 78 See, e.g., Craig-Staff Report (there is ‘‘ample evidence of problems with MLM to warrant inclusion in the rule’’); Afoa-Staff Report (commenting on personal experience with one MLM). E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 following language contained in the Staff Report: ‘‘Two key problems emerged with the IPBOR’s breadth of coverage. First, the IPBOR would have unintentionally swept in numerous commercial arrangements where there is little or no evidence that fraud is occurring.’’ 79 The commenters suggest, incorrectly, that the quoted language reveals a finding by the Commission that there is little or no evidence of fraud occurring within the MLM industry.80 This language, however, referred to a passage from the RNPR that addressed traditional product distribution arrangements, not MLMs.81 The Commission has not made a finding that there is little or no evidence of fraud within the MLM industry; to the contrary, it has specifically recognized, through its own law enforcement experience, that some MLMs may be pyramid schemes in masquerade and may make false and unsubstantiated earnings claims.82 In any event, the comments submitted in response to the Staff Report do not persuade the Commission that the Business Opportunity Rule is the proper tool to address these problems.83 Two of the affirmative disclosure requirements illustrate the difficulty in applying the Rule to MLMs: (1) The disclosure of substantiation for earnings claims; and (2) the disclosure of references. First, as the Commission has acknowledged, the varied and complex structure of MLMs makes it exceedingly difficult to make an accurate earnings disclosure and likely would require different disclosures for different levels of participation in the company. For instance, it would be difficult to craft an accurate earnings disclosure that would account for ‘‘inactive’’ participants that use their distributorship as a ‘‘buyers club’’ and are interested only in purchasing goods at a wholesale price for their own use.84 This problem appears to be unique to MLMs and, so 79 See, e.g., CAI-Staff Report at 1, 10–41; PSA– Staff Report. 80 CAI-Staff Report at 10–41; PSA-Staff Report (‘‘The basis of the exclusion appears to be the extraordinary claim that there is insufficient evidence of widespread fraud in the multi-level marketing field.’’). 81 Indeed, the language quoted by CAI and PSA contains a footnote referencing the section of the RNPR that discussed traditional product distribution arrangements. See Staff Report at 30 (citing 73 FR at 16113). 82 See 73 FR at 16119; see also Staff Report at 20. 83 Indeed, one commenter recommended a completely separate set of disclosures for MLM opportunities, further suggesting that the Business Opportunity Rule is a poor fit for the MLM industry. See Johnson-Staff Report (recommending that the FTC convert its consumer education on investing with an MLM into a series of disclosures that would be MLM-specific). 84 See 73 FR at 16120. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 far as the Commission is aware, does not arise in other forms of business opportunities. Furthermore, it may be difficult to determine retail income if the MLM is not in a position to verify the extent to which a distributor has resold the product at retail, is warehousing the product, or bought the product for his or her own personal consumption. Even where the MLM has policies in place purportedly to ensure that a portion of its distributors’ income is derived from retail sales, these policies could go unenforced, or even where ostensibly enforced, could be circumvented by distributors who may have an incentive to ‘‘inflate’’ their retail sales by ‘‘certifying’’ that such sales occurred in order to qualify for higher levels of commissions. In light of these difficulties, and because the comments submitted in response to the Staff Report did not refute these findings, the Commission continues to believe that developing a standard, useful, and understandable earnings disclosure that would apply to both the MLM industry and the other business opportunities covered by the Rule remains elusive.85 Second, the reference disclosure required under the final Rule would make little sense in the MLM context. As the Commission has previously recognized, those prior purchasers appearing on the reference list likely would stand to receive a financial benefit if they could convince a prospect to enroll into their downline.86 Under these circumstances, information provided by such a reference might not be a reliable indicator of the potential risk and rewards of enrollment in the MLM. In response to the Staff Report, the Commission received one comment attempting to refute this reasoning. The commenter argued that, contrary to the Commission’s view, prior purchasers would have little incentive to misrepresent the success of the MLM because that incentive would exist only if the prospective purchaser would become part of the prior purchaser’s downline, which the commenter implies would not always be the case.87 The commenter further argued that the fact that the prospective purchaser had received the disclosure document would indicate that the prospective purchaser had already been recruited, 85 While CAI presented its proposal for an earnings disclosure, it is clear that the disclosure would be specific to MLMs and would have no application to the other types of business opportunities addressed by the Rule. See CAI–Staff Report at 7–33. 86 See 73 FR at 16121. 87 Brooks-Staff Report at 8. PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76823 and therefore would be unlikely to face further recruitment by the prior purchaser.88 The Commission finds these arguments unpersuasive. To the extent there is any financial incentive for a reference to puff or exaggerate the benefits of buying into a business, that reference obviously cannot provide a disinterested opinion to the prospect. The MLM model is inherently structured to create financial incentives for distributors to recruit prospects into their downlines.89 Thus, those financial incentives are present whenever a potential recruit enquires into the business. To illustrate the point, even dissatisfied distributors have an incentive to refrain from disparaging the MLM because any losses they have suffered could potentially be recouped by the recruitment of the prospect into their downline. Whether they are ultimately successful in their attempt to woo a recruit from another distributor is immaterial; they have every incentive to try.90 Thus, the Commission continues to believe that the final Rule’s reference disclosure would not provide prospective MLM participants with an accurate account of the MLM experience or with information necessary to make an informed purchasing decision. Moreover, these challenges appear to be unique to MLMs, and as far as the Commission is aware, are not inherent in the other types of business opportunities addressed by the final Rule. Accordingly, while the Commission recognizes that problems may exist within the MLM industry, it continues to find that the Business Opportunity Rule is not the appropriate vehicle through which to address them. Rather, the Commission will continue to challenge unfair or deceptive practices in the MLM industry through Section 5 of the FTC Act. Thus, the final Rule has 88 Id. 89 Multi-level marketing is a business model in which a company distributes products through a network of distributors who earn income from their own retail sales of the product and from retail sales made by the distributors’ direct and indirect recruits. Because they earn a commission from the sales their recruits make, each member in the MLM network has an incentive to continue recruiting additional sales representatives into their ‘‘down lines.’’ See Vander Nat & Keep, supra note 13. 90 Comments submitted in response to the Staff Report did not refute these arguments, but actually bolstered them. For instance, one commenter noted that MLM recruiters will often pretend they are wealthy when they are not, simply to entice others to join the MLM. See O’Handley-Staff Report at 2; see also CAI–Staff Report at 5 (noting that in MLMs, ‘‘every major victim is of necessity a perpetrator (recruiter) because to have any hope of recouping their ongoing investments * * * they must recruit others to do what they have done’’). E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 76824 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations been crafted to avoid broadly sweeping in MLMs.91 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 2. Streamlined Disclosure Requirements Although the scope of coverage is broader, the compliance burden is lighter under the final Rule than under the interim Business Opportunity Rule. In contrast to the voluminous disclosures that business opportunity sellers are required to make under the interim Business Opportunity Rule, the final Rule has significantly streamlined the disclosures to focus on the types of information most material to business opportunity purchasers: (1) The seller’s identifying information; (2) whether the seller makes an earnings claim; 92 (3) whether the seller, its affiliates, or key personnel, have been involved in any legal actions; 93 (4) whether the seller has a cancellation or refund policy; and (5) a list of purchasers who have bought the business opportunity within the previous three years. The final Rule also requires the disclosure of supplementary information that substantiates earnings claims, identifies legal actions, and states the material terms of the seller’s cancellation or refund policy. These disclosures are consistent with the Commission’s experience concerning common practices in the sale of business opportunities, and the types of information most meaningful to prospective purchasers.94 For example, the Commission’s experience 91 The final Rule, however, does not explicitly exempt MLMs from coverage, but instead contains a narrow definition of ‘‘business opportunity.’’ As discussed in Section III.A.3 infra, the final Rule’s definition of ‘‘business opportunity’’ eliminates two types of business assistance that previously would have triggered the Rule’s coverage of MLMs: (1) Tracking or paying commissions or other compensation for recruitment or sales; and (2) providing generalized training or advice for the business. The final Rule is thus more narrowly tailored to those types of deceptive business assistance representations that are the hallmark of fraudulent business opportunity schemes: location, account, and ‘‘buy back’’ assistance. 73 FR at 16123. 92 If the business opportunity seller indicates that it does make earnings claims, then it must complete a separate earnings claim statement setting forth the earnings claim, the number and percentage of purchasers who achieved the represented level of earnings, the date range during which the represented earnings were achieved, and additional information. 93 If the business opportunity seller indicates that it or its affiliates or key personnel have been subject to legal actions, then it must complete a separate attachment setting forth the full caption of each action, and may choose to include a brief 100-word description of the action. 94 To fully develop the rulemaking record on business opportunities, in the ANPR, the Commission solicited comment about what pre-sale disclosures would ensure that business opportunity purchasers receive material information necessary to make an investment decision and prevent fraud in the sale of business opportunities. 62 FR at 9121, Questions 15 & 16. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 demonstrates that earnings claims are highly relevant to consumers in making their investment decisions and are often the single most decisive factor in such decisions. Furthermore, the presence of a legal action against the seller or its key personnel may warn the purchaser of potential risk associated with the business opportunity. Information about the seller’s cancellation or refund policy is relevant to consumers when weighing their investment risks. Finally, providing the contact information for prior purchasers will allow prospective purchasers to discuss the business opportunity with other purchasers prior to committing themselves to the business opportunity venture. These streamlined disclosure requirements strike the appropriate balance by providing consumers with material information in a straightforward and focused document that will allow them to make informed purchasing decisions. At the same time, the streamlined form eases the compliance burden currently imposed on business opportunity sellers. Like the Original Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule, the final Rule is posited on the notion that a fully informed consumer is in a better position to determine whether a particular offering is in his or her best interest when sellers are required to disclose to them material information. Consumers should be protected against receiving inaccurate information and self-serving unsubstantiated statements from business opportunity sellers. Accordingly, the final Rule requires that business opportunity sellers disclose just the types of information that the Commission has determined are most material to potential purchasers in making a purchasing decision: The seller’s identifying information; whether the seller makes an earnings claim, and if so, the substantiation for that claim; whether the seller offers a refund or cancellation policy, and if so, the material terms of that policy; whether the seller or its affiliates and key personnel have been the subject of prior legal actions; and the names and business telephone numbers of prior purchasers to contact. The Commission has determined that these streamlined disclosure requirements will provide potential purchasers with the tools they need to protect themselves from false claims, while at the same time minimizing compliance costs for legitimate business opportunity sellers. 3. Express Prohibitions In addition to mandating disclosures to prospective purchasers, the final Rule includes prohibitions on sellers from PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 engaging in a number of deceptive practices, which were absent from the interim Business Opportunity Rule. In drafting the final Rule, the Commission relied heavily on its experience in addressing a wide array of deceptive and unfair business opportunity practices through law enforcement actions under the Original Franchise Rule, the interim Business Opportunity Rule, and Section 5 of the FTC Act. The Commission also relied on the staff’s analysis of consumer complaints submitted to the FTC. By far, the most frequent allegations in Commission business opportunity cases pertain to false or unsubstantiated earnings claims.95 False testimonials or fictitious references and misrepresentations concerning the profitability of locations, availability of support and assistance, nature of the products or services sold, prior success of the seller or locator, full extent of investment costs, and refund policies are also prevalent in Commission business opportunity cases.96 These alleged material misrepresentations or omissions also were frequently mentioned in complaints to the Commission submitted by business opportunity purchasers.97 95 See, e.g., FTC v. Darling Angel Pin Creations, Inc., No. 8:10–cv–00335–JSM–TGW (M.D. Fla. Feb. 2010) (representing likely earnings of $500 per week); FTC v. Route Wizard, Inc., No. 1:06–cv– 00815–KD–B (S.D. Ala. 2006) (representing that purchasers could earn $3,000 a month); FTC v. Bus. Card Experts, Inc., No. 06–CV–4671 (PJS/RLE) (D. Minn. 2006) (claiming likely earnings of $150,000 in first year); FTC v. Richardson d/b/a Mid-South Distribs., No. CV–06–S–4754–NW (N.D. Ala. 2006) (representing likely earnings of over $2,000 a month or $65,000 a year); FTC v. Accent Mktg., Inc., et al., No. 02–405–CB–M (S.D. Ala. 2002) (representing likely earnings of $3,200 per month to $16,000 per month). 96 See, e.g., FTC v. Bus. Card Experts, Inc., No. 06–CV–4671 (PJS/RLE) (D. Minn. 2006) (used paid references); FTC v. Route Wizard, Inc., No. 1:06–cv– 00815–KD–B (S.D. Ala. 2006) (misrepresented location assistance); FTC v. Richardson d/b/a MidSouth Distribs., No. CV–06–S–4754–NW (N.D. Ala. 2006) (promised high-traffic, high-profit locations); FTC v. Am. Entm’t Distribs., Inc., No. 04–22431– Civ–Martinez (S.D. Fla. 2004) (used fictitious references, misrepesented locations); FTC v. Fidelity ATM, Inc., No. 06–81101–Civ–Hurley/ Hopkins (S.D. Fla. 2004) (misrepresented level of support or assistance); FTC v. Accent Mktg., Inc., et al., No. 02–405–CB–M (S.D. Ala. 2002) (misrepresented that references purchased the business venture or would provide reliable descriptions of their experience); FTC v. Associated Record Distribs., Inc., No. 02–21754–CIV–Graham/ Garber (S.D. Fla. 2002) (misrepresented business assistance and that references either purchased the business venture or would provide reliable descriptions of their experience). 97 In 2010, the Commission logged over 12,000 complaints against franchises, business opportunities, and work-at-home schemes. See Consumer Sentinel Network Databook (March 2011) at 76, available at https://ftc.gov/sentinel/reports/ sentinel-annual-reports/sentinel-cy2010.pdf. E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations Therefore, among other things, under the final Rule, business opportunity sellers are prohibited from misrepresenting: (1) Earnings; (2) the cost, efficacy, nature, or central characteristics of the business opportunity or the goods or services sold to the purchaser as part of the business opportunity; (3) their cancellation or refund policies; (4) promised assistance; (5) the calculation and distribution of commissions, bonuses, incentives, premiums, or other payments from the seller; (6) the likelihood of finding locations for equipment or accounts for services; (7) that the business opportunity is an offer of employment; (8) territorial exclusivity or more limited territorial protections; (9) endorsements; and (10) references. The final Rule also prohibits business opportunity sellers from failing to make promised refunds, and from assigning to any purchaser a purported exclusive territory that has been sold to another purchaser. The final Rule prohibits entities covered by the Rule from engaging in the specific acts or practices identified as deceptive or unfair through the Commission’s law enforcement experience, as well as the rulemaking record. Engaging in any of those acts or practices is a violation of both the final Rule and Section 5 of the FTC Act.98 Of course, the Commission, under Section 5, also may challenge any conduct that is not enumerated in the final Rule if the Commission determines that such conduct constitutes an unfair or deceptive act or practice. 4. Disclosures in Spanish or Other Languages Besides English The Commission’s law enforcement history demonstrates that some business opportunities are marketed primarily to Spanish speaking consumers.99 Based 98 15 U.S.C. 57a(d)(3). FTC v. Zoilo Cruz, No. 3:08–cv–01877–JP (D. P.R. 2008) (envelope stuffing scheme marketed in Spanish-language newspapers and on a Web site available in Spanish and English); FTC v. Integrity Mktg. Team, Inc., No. 07–cv–61152 (S.D. Fla. 2007) (envelope stuffing scheme marketed in Spanishlanguage classified advertisements); FTC v. Hispanexo, Inc., No. 1:06–cv–00424–JCC–TRJ (E.D. Va. 2006) (assistance in starting a construction, gardening, or cleaning business marketed through Spanish-language television and radio stations); FTC v. Juan Matos, No. 06–61429–CIV–Altonaga (S.D. Fla. 2006) (craft assembly business marketed through Spanish-language advertisements); FTC v. Nat’l Vending Consultants, Inc., CV–S–05–0160– RCJ (PAL) (D. Nev. 2005) (deceptively marketed vending machine business opportunities—with many marketing efforts specifically targeting Spanish-speaking consumers); FTC v. Amada Guerra, No. 6:04–CV–1395 (M.D. Fla. 2004) (product assembly scheme telemarketed to Spanishspeaking consumers); FTC v. USS Elder Enter., Inc., No. SACV–04–1039 AHS (Anx) (C.D. Cal. 2004) mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 99 E.g., VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 on this experience, the Staff Report discussed the limited utility of Englishlanguage disclosures for business opportunities marketed in Spanish. Specifically, the staff questioned whether the disclosure document could be made more effective by translating it into Spanish and requiring that when a business opportunity is marketed in Spanish, the disclosure document and any disclosures required by the Rule be provided in Spanish. The Staff Report further suggested that when a business opportunity seller purposefully reaches out to a particular population by marketing in the foreign language spoken by members of that community, all of the disclosures required by the Rule should be accessible and comprehensible to each of those potential purchasers. The Staff Report recommended, therefore, that because the Commission has specific law enforcement experience with business opportunities marketed in Spanish, a Spanish translation of the disclosure document was necessary to attach as an appendix to the final Rule. It further recommended that where the business opportunity is marketed in a language other than Spanish, the business opportunity seller should be required to translate the disclosure document into the language of the sale and provide all the disclosures required by the Rule in that language. It is the long-held policy of the Commission that disclosures required by Commission orders, rules, or guides should be made in the predominant language used in the related advertisement or sales material.100 Upon consideration of this policy, the staff’s recommendation, and the rationale for the staff’s recommendation, the Commission agrees with the staff’s recommendation. Accordingly, the final Rule contains a new provision, § 437.5, which specifies the disclosure requirements for sales conducted in Spanish or other languages besides English. II. The Legal Standard for Amending the Rule The Commission is amending 16 CFR Part 437 pursuant to Section 18 of the FTC Act, 15 U.S.C. 57a et seq., and Part 1, subpart B of the Commission’s Rules (work at home assembly scheme offered through Spanish-language newspapers and magazines); FTC v. Esteban Barrios Vega, No. H–04–1478 (S.D. Tex. 2004) (deceptive product assembly opportunity marketed through Spanish-language newspaper and magazine advertisements). 100 FTC Enforcement Policy Statement Concerning Clear and Conspicuous Disclosures in Foreign Language Advertising and Sales Materials, 16 CFR 14.9. PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76825 of Practice.101 This authority permits the Commission to promulgate, modify, and repeal trade regulation rules that define with specificity acts or practices that are unfair or deceptive in or affecting commerce within the meaning of Section 5(a)(1) of the FTC Act, 15 U.S.C. 45(a)(1). The Commission’s Rules of Practice further provide that if the Commission determines to promulgate a rule, it shall adopt a Statement of Basis and Purpose (‘‘SBP’’), which must address four factors: (1) The prevalence of the acts or practices addressed by the rule; (2) the manner and context in which the acts or practices are unfair or deceptive; (3) the economic effect of the rule, taking into account the effect on small businesses and consumers; and (4) the effect of the rule on state and local laws.102 In this section, the Commission summarizes its findings regarding each of these factors.103 A. Prevalence of Acts or Practices Addressed by the Rule The Commission promulgated the Original Franchise Rule in 1978 based upon its finding of prevalent deception in the offer and sale of franchises and business opportunity ventures, leading to significant consumer injury. Since 1995, when the Commission commenced a regulatory review of the Original Franchise Rule to ensure that the Original Franchise Rule continued to serve a useful purpose, the Commission has sought comment several times to ascertain the need for a separate trade regulation rule to address widespread fraud in the sale of business opportunities.104 Throughout the Rule amendment proceedings, the Commission has described its experience in combating a wide array of business opportunity fraud through law enforcement actions. Indeed, the Commission’s law enforcement experience in conducting numerous sweeps of the business opportunity industry demonstrates that deceptive and unfair practices in the sale of business opportunities are not only prevalent but persistent.105 101 16 CFR 1.7, 5 U.S.C. 551 et seq. of Practice, 16 CFR 1.14(a)(1)(i)–(iv). In addition, in accordance with 16 CFR 1.14(a)(1)(v), the regulatory analysis is provided at Section V of this Statement of Basis and Purpose. 103 Support in the record for each factor is set forth in the substantive discussion of each provision of the final Rule. 104 See 60 FR at 17657; 62 FR at 9117; 71 FR at 19084; 73 FR at 16133; 74 FR at 18172; 75 FR at 68559. 105 Since 1995, the Commission has conducted more than 18 law enforcement sweeps to combat deceptive business opportunity programs, many 102 Rules E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM Continued 08DER2 76826 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 The Commission has amended the interim Rule to address the sale of deceptive work-at-home schemes, where unfair and deceptive practices have been both prevalent and persistent. These schemes prey upon stay-at-home parents, the physically disabled, those who do not speak English, and others who cannot obtain employment outside of the home. Sellers of fraudulent workat-home opportunities deceive their victims with promises of an ongoing relationship in which the seller will buy the output that business opportunity purchasers produce, often misrepresenting to purchasers that there is a market for the purchasers’ goods and services. In addition, the Commission’s law enforcement experience demonstrates that fraudulent work-at-home opportunity sellers frequently invent undisclosed conditions and limitations for rejecting the work performed by purchasers and refusing to buy back the goods the purchasers produce. Similarly, these sellers’ promises of continuing support and assistance frequently prove empty, leaving work-at-home opportunity purchasers with no help in figuring out how to assemble misshapen components into finished products. Finally, as the Commission’s cases and complaint data demonstrate, con artists who promote fraudulent work-at-home schemes frequently dupe consumers with false earnings claims. with other law enforcement partners. E.g., Operation Bottom Dollar (2010); Operation Short Change (2009); Project Fal$e Hope$ (2006); Project Biz Opp Flop (2005); Project Busted Opportunity (2002); Project Telesweep (1995); Project Biz-illion$ (1999); Operation Money Pit (1998); Project Vend Up Broke (1998); Project Trade Name Games (1997); and Operation Missed Fortune (1996). In addition to joint law enforcement sweeps, the Commission also targeted specific business opportunity ventures such as envelope stuffing (Operation Pushing the Envelope, see FTC News Release: Agencies ‘‘Pushing the Envelope’’ to Protect Consumers (Dec. 16, 2003), available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/ 2003/12/pushenvelope.shtm); medical billing (Operation Dialing for Deception, see FTC News Release: FTC Sweep Protects Consumers from ‘‘Dialing for Deception’’ (Apr. 15, 2002), available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/2002/04/dialing.shtm and Project Housecall, see FTC News Release: Bogus Business Opportunity Scams Targeted by FTC (Jan. 28, 1998), available at https://www.ftc.gov/ opa/1998/01/housecal.shtm); seminars (Operation Showtime, see Operation ‘‘Show Time’’ Targets Seminars Selling Fraudulent Business Opportunities and Investments (May 5, 1998), available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/1998/05/ showtime.shtm); Internet-related services (Net Opportunities 1998); vending machines (Operation Yankee Trader, see FTC News Release: Operation ‘‘Yankee Trader’’ Targets Bogus Vending Machine Business Opportunities (Sept. 11, 1997), available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/1997/09/still.shtm); and 900 numbers (Project Buylines, see FTC News Release: Newest Business Opportunity Fraud Is For 900-Number Lines, Warns Federal Trade Commission (March 7, 1996), available at https:// www.ftc.gov/opa/1996/03/buyline.shtm). VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 Since 1990 the Commission has brought over 75 work-at-home cases.106 These actions have targeted a variety of schemes, ranging from envelope stuffing and craft assembly programs, to technology-driven opportunities and medical billing plans.107 Data compiled by the Commission demonstrate the prevalence of work-athome opportunities that do not deliver the represented level of earnings. Indeed, the Commission’s 2005 consumer fraud survey revealed that work-at-home plans from which the respondents who had purchased them did not earn at least half the level of promised earnings ranked fifth in terms of the estimated number of victims and third in terms of estimated number of incidents reported during the year.108 According to the survey, an estimated 2.4 million individuals experienced work-at-home fraud, and there were an estimated 3.8 million incidents during the one year period surveyed.109 Consumer complaints, survey data, and the Commission’s law enforcement experience convince the Commission that deception is prevalent in work-athome offers. The final Rule’s disclosure requirements and prohibitions provide potential work-at-home purchasers with the tools they need to protect themselves from false claims. In addition to work-at-home opportunities, the final Rule also covers the same types of business opportunities that previously were covered under the Original Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule, such as opportunities involving vending machines, rack displays, Internet kiosks, 106 Many of these cases were brought in connection with law enforcement sweeps of fraudulent work-at-home and related employment opportunities, including Operation Bottom Dollar (2010); Operation Short Change (2009); Project Fal$e Hope$ (2006); Project Biz Opp Flop (2005); Project Homework (2001); Operation Top Ten Dot Con, see FTC News Release: Law Enforcers Target ‘‘Top 10’’ Online Scams (Oct. 31, 2000), available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/2000/10/topten.shtm; and Operation Missed Fortune, see FTC News Release: FTC, State Enforcers Target Get-Rich-Quick Self-Employment Schemes (Nov. 13, 1996), available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/1996/11/ misdfort.shtm. 107 See, e.g., FTC v. Real Wealth, Inc., 10–CV– 0060–W–FJG (W.D. Mo. 2010) (envelope stuffing); FTC v. Darling Angel Pin Creations, Inc., No. 8:10– cv–00335–JSM–TGW (M.D. Fla. 2010) (craft assembly); FTC v. The Results Group L.L.C, No. CV 06 2843 PHX JAT (D. Ariz. 2006) (work-at-home involving becoming a Web-based affiliate); FTC v. Mazzoni & Son, Inc., No.1:06CV2385 (N.D. Ohio 2006) (medical billing). 108 See Consumer Fraud in the United States: The Second FTC Survey (October 2007) at 22, available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/2007/10/fraud.pdf (studying consumer experience with a variety of products and services, including weight-loss products, foreign lotteries, and prize promotions, among others). 109 Id. PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 and the like, which, as the Commission’s experience demonstrates, have been a persistently fertile ground for fraud and deception.110 The Commission has conducted numerous law enforcement sweeps that targeted a wide variety of business opportunity scams involving the sale of vending machines, rack displays, and other opportunities covered by the Original Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule.111 Consumer complaint data indicates that these types of business opportunities continue to be a significant source of consumer injury.112 B. Manner and Context in Which the Acts or Practices Are Deceptive or Unfair The final Rule has been carefully crafted to address common deceptive or unfair practices engaged in by fraudulent business opportunity sellers.113 By far, the most frequent allegations in the Commission’s business opportunity cases pertain to inducing consumers to pay significant amounts of money by means of false or unsubstantiated earnings claims.114 This is followed by inducement through false testimonials or fictitious references and by misrepresentations concerning: The profitability of locations; the availability of assistance; the nature of the products or services being sold; the prior success of third-party entities in finding successful locations; the full extent of 110 See id. at 16 (reporting that an estimated 800,000 individuals were victims of business opportunity fraud during the year surveyed). 111 E.g., Project Fal$e Hope$ (2006) (vending machine and rack display opportunities); Project Biz Opp Flop (2005) (vending machine opportunities); Project Busted Opportunity (2002) (vending machine and rack display opportunities); Project Biz-illion$ (1999); Operation Money Pit (1998) (rack display opportunities); Project Vend Up Broke (1998) (vending machine opportunities); Project Trade Name Games (1997) (rack display opportunities); Operation Missed Fortune (1996); Project Telesweep (1995) (vending machine and rack display opportunities); see also supra note 55. 112 See Consumer Sentinel Network Databook (March 2011) at p. 76, available at https://ftc.gov/ sentinel/reports/sentinel-annual-reports/sentinelcy2010.pdf (reporting that in 2010, over 12,000 complaints were filed against franchises, business opportunities, and work-at-home schemes). 113 An act or practice is deceptive under Section 5(a) if it involves a material representation or omission that is likely to mislead consumers, acting reasonably under the circumstances, to their detriment. See FTC Policy Statement on Deception, appended to Cliffdale Associates, Inc., 103 F.T.C. 110, 174 (1984). An act or practice is unfair under Section 5 if: (1) It causes or is likely to cause substantial injury to consumers; (2) the harm to consumers is not outweighed by any countervailing benefits; and (3) the harm is not reasonably avoidable by consumers. See FTC Policy Statement on Unfairness, appended to In re International Harvester, 104 F.T.C. 949, 1062 (1984). See 15 U.S.C. 45(n). 114 See supra note 95. E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations the investment costs; and refund policies.115 The numerous business opportunity complaints that consumers submit to the Commission each year consistently reference these same concerns. The disclosure requirements under the final Rule address each of these deceptive or unfair practices. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 1. Earnings Claims In the Commission’s experience, earnings claims are highly material to consumers in making their investment decisions and typically are the single most decisive factor in such decisions. Earnings claims lie at the heart of business opportunity fraud, and are typically the enticement that persuades consumers to invest their money. In the overwhelming majority of the Commission’s more than 245 cases against business opportunity sellers, the business opportunity seller has lured unsuspecting consumers through false or deceptive earnings representations. These claims have taken the form of purported historical earnings statistics (e.g., ‘‘Our operators have earned $100,000 a year’’), as well as wild and unsupported earnings projections (e.g., ‘‘You will earn $100,000 in your first year’’). Promoters of work-at-home opportunities frequently dupe consumers with false earnings claims. For example, in one recent envelopestuffing case brought under Section 5 of the FTC Act, the defendants promised purchasers weekly earnings ranging from $1,200 to $4,400.116 In another case targeting Spanish-speaking consumers, the defendants promised that purchasers could earn $1,400 per week stuffing envelopes from home.117 Often earnings claims are express, but may be implied. Sellers often convey these false and unsubstantiated earnings claims orally, although it is not unusual for such claims to be in writing. Nor is it unusual for these false earnings claims to contradict inconspicuous disclaimers the seller has hidden in contracts or other printed materials. At any rate, false or unsubstantiated earnings claims are inherently likely to mislead consumers. Certainly, no aspect of the sales transaction is more material than the level of earnings a purchaser can reasonably expect. Moreover, prospective purchasers reasonably interpret earnings claims at face value. Thus, false or unsubstantiated earnings 115 See supra note 96. v. Global U.S. Resources, No. 10–CV– 1457 (RNC) (D. Conn. 2010). 117 FTC v. Zoilo Cruz, No. 3:08–cv–01877–JP (D.P.R. 2008). 116 FTC VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 claims are deceptive and unlawful under Section 5 of the FTC Act.118 Under the Original Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule, the Commission sought to ensure the accuracy and reliability of earnings claims, both written and oral, express or implied, by prohibiting sellers from making an earnings claim, unless the seller possessed a reasonable basis for the claim, along with written substantiation for the claim, at the time the claim was made. Sellers were also required to provide prospective purchasers with a separate earnings claims statement that set forth the claim and the substantiation for that claim. The final Rule continues to address false and deceptive earnings claims by requiring business opportunity sellers to disclose whether they make an earnings claim. Sellers who make earnings claims must attach to the required disclosure document an earnings claim statement setting forth the earnings claim, the number and percentage of purchasers who achieved the represented level of earnings, the date range during which the represented earnings were achieved, and other information. These disclosure requirements are designed to help consumers identify and evaluate an earnings claim, if one is made, or to arouse suspicion if an earnings claim is made orally but is disclaimed in writing. The final Rule, in § 437.6(d), also prohibits misrepresenting ‘‘the amount of sales, or gross or net income or profits a prospective purchaser may earn, or that prior purchasers have earned.’’ 2. References The use of paid references or ‘‘shills’’ is a common practice in the sale of fraudulent business opportunities. In many of the Commission’s cases against fraudulent business opportunity sellers, the defendants had offered to provide prospective purchasers with purportedly independent references, who in reality were nothing more than paid shills—individuals who were compensated by the defendants to claim that they were successful operators of defendants’ business ventures.119 The business opportunity sellers, however, had not disclosed to prospective 118 See FTC Policy Statement on Deception, appended to Cliffdale Associates, Inc., 103 F.T.C. 110, 174 (1984). 119 E.g., FTC v. Am. Entm’t Distribs., Inc., No. 04– 22431–CIV–Martinez (S.D. Fla. 2004); U.S. v. Vaughn, No. 01–20077–01–KHV (D. Kan. 2001); FTC v. Hart Mktg. Enter. Ltd., Inc., No. 98–222– CIV–T–23 E (M.D. Fla. 1998); FTC v. Inetintl.com, No. 98–2140 (C.D. Cal. 1998); FTC v. Infinity Multimedia, Inc., No. 96–6671–CIV–Gonzalez (S.D. Fla. 1996); FTC v. Allstate Bus. Consultants Group, Inc., No. 95–6634–CIV–Ryskamp (S.D. Fla. 1995). PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76827 purchasers that the references were paid or otherwise received a benefit for providing a favorable account of the opportunity. The use of fictitious references is an objectionable, but very effective means of misleading consumers about a highly material fact—whether other purchasers have actually achieved earnings as the seller represents, and whether those purchasers’ overall experience of operating the business has been positive. When the information a reference provides on these questions is fictitious, a prospective purchaser has no way of knowing the information is false and unreliable. Thus, the use of fictitious references—shills—is a deceptive practice.120 The Original Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule sought to remedy this deceptive practice by requiring business opportunity sellers to provide prospective purchasers with the names and contact information for at least 10 current purchasers of the opportunity. The final Rule continues to remedy this deceptive practice by requiring a business opportunity seller to disclose a list of all prior purchasers of the business opportunity during the previous three years. The disclosure of prior purchasers is instrumental in preventing fraud because it enables prospective purchasers to independently verify the seller’s claims. The final Rule also, in § 437.6(q), prohibits misrepresenting that any person has purchased a business opportunity, or that any person can provide an independent assessment of the offering, when such is not the case. 3. Refund Policies Fraudulent business opportunity sellers often offer prospective purchasers the right to cancel or to seek a whole or partial refund, but when a purchaser seeks to cancel, he finds there are hidden limitations or conditions on the refund policy. More often, the seller simply ignores the purchaser’s request. Thus, refund offers are frequently just illusory, and misleading. Cancellation or refund offers are material to prospective purchasers because they purport to reflect the potential risk of the proposed transaction, and may create the impression that the business opportunity offer is either risk free or a low financial risk. Purchasers reasonably interpret a refund policy to be, in fact, as stated. Thus, representing 120 See FTC Policy Statement on Deception, appended to Cliffdale Associates, Inc., 103 F.T.C. 110, 174 (1984). E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 76828 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations an illusory refund policy is deceptive under Section 5 of the FTC Act. Moreover, the failure to honor refund promises is an unfair practice in violation of Section 5(n) of the FTC Act.121 It often results in substantial injury to business opportunity purchasers that they cannot reasonably avoid.122 Moreover, the record is devoid of any evidence suggesting that this harm is outweighed by any countervailing benefits. To remedy this practice, under the Original Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule, it was a violation for a seller to fail to refund a purchaser’s funds, in certain instances. The final Rule continues to address this practice. Under § 437.3(a)(4) of the final Rule, a seller is not required to have a refund or cancellation policy. The seller, however, is required to disclose whether it has either a refund or cancellation policy, and if so, the seller must disclose, in an attachment to the disclosure document, the material terms of the policy. Moreover, § 437.6(k) prohibits any misrepresentation of a seller’s refund or cancellation policies, and § 437.6(l) prohibits failure to provide a refund or cancellation when the purchaser has satisfied the terms and conditions disclosed. 4. Legal Actions mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 The Commission’s law enforcement experience amply demonstrates that fraudulent business opportunity sellers often operate through multiple related affiliates, or use, sequentially or simultaneously, a variety of corporate identities in order to obscure their negative reputation or to avoid alerting consumers of the potential for fraud. This subterfuge is designed to mislead, and actually does mislead prospective business opportunity purchasers about a crucially material fact: The reliability and trustworthiness of the seller with whom the consumer is transacting. It is not unreasonable for a consumer to believe that a seller is as represented; the consumer is not obliged to suspect an apparently legitimate seller has a history of fraud hidden behind multiple defunct or impossible to trace corporate entities. Thus, it is a deceptive practice and a violation of Section 5 for a seller to obfuscate past activities that would 121 An act or practice is unfair if it ‘‘causes or is likely to cause substantial injury to consumers which is not reasonably avoidable by consumers themselves and not outweighed by countervailing benefits to consumers or to competition.’’ 15 U.S.C. 5(n). 122 See, e.g., In re Orkin Exterminating Co., 108 F.T.C. 263 (1986), aff’d, Orkin Exterminating Co. v. FTC, 849 F.2d 1354 (11 Cir. 1988). VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 alert a prospective purchaser of a likelihood of fraud.123 One of the key indicia of a seller’s reliability and trustworthiness is whether there have been law enforcement actions or lawsuits for fraud and similar infractions targeting that seller. Accordingly, under the Original Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule, the Commission required sellers to disclose certain legal actions in which they or their principals have been involved. Similarly, the final Rule requires a business opportunity seller to disclose any legal actions that the seller, its affiliates, and certain key personnel have been involved in during the previous ten years involving misrepresentation, fraud, securities law violations, or unfair or deceptive practices, including violations of any FTC Rule. Knowledge of such legal actions against the seller and other key persons associated with the seller is material to a prospective purchaser’s decision to go forward with the transaction. These disclosure requirements are tailored to address common deceptive or unfair practices in the sale of business opportunities, as demonstrated by the Commission’s extensive law enforcement experience with business opportunity fraud. In addition to these disclosures, the final Rule requires sellers to disclose certain identifying information about themselves and expressly prohibits a variety of material misrepresentations and omissions that the Commission’s experience demonstrates to be most commonly associated with deceptive and unfair practices in the sale of business opportunities. C. The Economic Effect of the Rule At every stage of the Rule amendment proceeding, the Commission solicited comment on the economic impact of the Rule, as well as the costs and benefits of each proposed Rule amendment. In issuing the final Rule, the Commission has carefully considered the comments received and the costs and benefits of each amendment. As discussed throughout this SBP, the final Rule’s disclosure requirements and specific prohibitions will provide a substantial benefit to consumers weighing the risks of investing their money in specific business opportunity offers. In particular, the mandated disclosures will help consumers evaluate the earnings claims made by a seller, 123 See FTC Policy Statement on Deception, appended to Cliffdale Associates, Inc., 103 F.T.C. 110, 174 (1984). PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 investigate the litigation history of the seller, identify the seller’s refund or cancellation policy, and check on the experiences of other purchasers. By providing consumers with access to this information before money changes hands, the final Rule will substantially reduce economic harm caused by misleading sales practices. The Commission has attempted to reduce sellers’ compliance costs wherever possible. In general, compliance with the final Rule’s disclosure requirements is significantly less burdensome than with the Original Franchise Rule or the interim Business Opportunity Rule. Most notably, the final Rule streamlines the more than 20 separate categories of disclosures required by the interim Business Opportunity Rule to just five. The final Rule also employs specific prohibitions in place of affirmative disclosures wherever possible in an attempt to further reduce compliance costs. A variety of other amendments have been made in an attempt to reduce compliance costs for business opportunity sellers. For example, in the RNPR, the Commission eliminated the requirement that sellers disclose the litigation histories of their sales personnel, recognizing that such disclosure would place a burden on business opportunity sellers that would not be outweighed by countervailing benefits to prospective purchasers.124 The final Rule also does not require sellers with prior legal actions against them to detail the nature of the legal action, but rather, permits sellers to provide a brief 100-word description of the case if they so choose. Also, in an attempt to reduce compliance costs, the final Rule permits sellers to comply with the cancellation or refund disclosure requirement by attaching to the disclosure document a copy of a preexisting document—such as a company brochure—that details the seller’s cancellation or refund policy. The final Rule also provides sellers with a less burdensome means of complying with the reference disclosure requirement: In lieu of a list of the 10 prior purchasers nearest the prospect, a seller may provide a prospect with a national list of all purchasers. For example, a seller making disclosures online could simply maintain an electronic list of purchasers that it updates periodically. This would enable the seller to avoid having to tailor the disclosure to each prospective 124 73 FR at 16126. The Commission’s decision to narrow the Rule so that MLMs would not be burdened with unworkable disclosure requirements was similarly prompted by concern that any potential benefits would be outweighed by compliance costs. Id. at 16119–21. E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations purchaser, thereby further reducing compliance costs. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 D. The Effect of the Rule on State and Local Laws Section 437.9(b) of the final Rule provides that the Commission does not intend to preempt state or local business opportunity laws, except to the extent that they conflict with the Rule. A law does not conflict with the Rule if it affords prospective purchasers equal or greater protection, such as a requirement for registration of disclosure documents or more extensive disclosures. Although state laws offering equal or greater protections are not preempted, § 437.6(c) of the final Rule, which addresses extraneous materials, prohibits sellers from providing disclosures required under state law in the same document with the disclosures required under the final Rule. One of the main goals of revising and tailoring the disclosure requirements for business opportunity sellers is to simplify and streamline the disclosures into a singlepage document. The Commission has determined, therefore, that allowing business opportunity sellers to mix federal and state disclosures into one document would be a means for sellers to present lengthy and confusing information to prospective purchasers, and would be contrary to the Commission’s goal of requiring sellers to provide a simple, clear, and concise disclosure document.125 III. Section-by-Section Analysis of Part 437 The final Rule is divided into ten sections. Section 437.1 defines 19 key terms employed in the Rule’s text. Section 437.2 establishes the business opportunity seller’s obligation to furnish prospective purchasers with material information in the form of a written basic disclosure document. Section 437.3 specifies the content and form of the disclosure document. Section 437.4 sets forth the requirements that business opportunity sellers must follow if they elect to make representations regarding earnings. Section 437.5 addresses sales conducted in Spanish or other languages besides English, and the disclosure requirements for those sales. Section 437.6 prohibits a number of specific deceptive claims and other deceptive practices in connection with business opportunity sales. Section 437.7 sets forth the Rule’s recordkeeping provisions. Section 437.8 expressly exempts from the Rule those business arrangements that are covered by the 125 73 FR at 16128. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 Amended Franchise Rule. Finally, two administrative sections—437.9 and 437.10—address other laws, rules, and orders, and severability. The sections that follow discuss each of these rule provisions in turn. A. Section 437.1: Definitions The final Rule begins with a list of defined terms in alphabetical order. In several instances, the final Rule’s definitions closely track those contained in the interim Business Opportunity Rule or the Commission’s interpretations of the Original Franchise Rule.126 These include the definitions for the terms ‘‘action,’’ ‘‘affiliate,’’ ‘‘disclose or state,’’ ‘‘earnings claim,’’ ‘‘person,’’ and ‘‘written or in writing.’’ In addition, the final Rule includes definitions for the terms ‘‘business opportunity,’’ ‘‘designated person,’’ ‘‘exclusive territory,’’ ‘‘general media,’’ ‘‘new business,’’ ‘‘prior business,’’ ‘‘providing locations, outlets, accounts, or customers,’’ ‘‘purchaser,’’ ‘‘quarterly,’’ ‘‘required payment,’’ and ‘‘seller,’’ each of which was proposed in the IPBOR and, in certain circumstances, modified in the RPBOR and the proposed Final Rule attached to the Staff Report. Finally, the final Rule includes two new definitions that were recommended in the Staff Report: (1) ‘‘Material’’ and (2) ‘‘signature or signed.’’ 127 Each definition, including the record support for the definition and the Commission’s analysis, is addressed below. 1. Section 437.1(a): Action The term ‘‘action’’ appears in § 437.3(a)(3), which requires business opportunity sellers to disclose material information about the business opportunity seller’s litigation history.128 Specifically, § 437.3(a)(3) of the final Rule requires the disclosure of material information about certain civil or criminal actions within the previous ten years involving the business opportunity seller, its directors, and certain key employees,129 as well as its 126 See 16 CFR 437.1; Final Interpretive Guides (‘‘Interpretive Guides’’) accompanying the Original Franchise Rule, 44 FR 49966 (Aug. 24, 1978). 127 At the same time, the final Rule eliminates nine of the interim Business Opportunity Rule’s terms and their definitions, which are no longer necessary: ‘‘prospective business opportunity purchaser,’’ ‘‘business day,’’ ‘‘time for making of disclosures,’’ ‘‘fractional business opportunity,’’ ‘‘business opportunity broker,’’ ‘‘sale of a business opportunity,’’ ‘‘cooperative association,’’ ‘‘fiscal year,’’ and ‘‘personal meeting.’’ 128 Section 437.3(a)(3) requires disclosure of ‘‘any civil or criminal action for misrepresentation, fraud, securities law violations, or unfair or deceptive practices, including violations of any FTC Rule.’’ 129 The final Rule covers ‘‘any sales managers, or any individual who occupies a position or performs PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76829 affiliates or prior businesses. Information about litigation history based on allegations of misrepresentation, fraud, securities law violations, or unfair or deceptive practices is highly material to assessing investment risk. Discovering that a seller has a history of violating laws and regulations is perhaps the best indication that a particular business opportunity is a high-risk investment. The definition of ‘‘action’’ is intended to make clear that disclosures involving prior litigation include not only civil actions brought before a court but also matters before arbitrators.130 It also is intended to make clear that an ‘‘action’’ includes all government actions, including criminal matters and actions brought to enforce FTC Rules, as well as administrative law enforcement actions, such as cease and desist orders or assurances of voluntary compliance.131 During the Business Opportunity workshop, a panelist representing the DOJ suggested that bankruptcy is another type of legal action that should be disclosed to potential purchasers because a bankruptcy filing could be a red flag warning of potential risk associated with a business opportunity.132 A panelist from the Maryland Attorney General’s Office disagreed, arguing that this additional disclosure would not benefit potential business opportunity purchasers because, in his experience, fraudulent business opportunities do not typically file for bankruptcy protection.133 Instead, in that panelist’s experience, fraudulent business opportunity promoters shutter their premises and reopen as an entirely new fraudulent entity. Another panelist posited that disclosure of the existence of a bankruptcy by the business opportunity or its key personnel was not likely to identify fraudulent or problematic business opportunities that would not already be identified through the existing proposed categories of legal actions.134 The Commission has determined not to include bankruptcy as a type of legal action that a business opportunity seller must disclose. The Commission’s law enforcement experience indicates that when targeted by law enforcement, a function similar to an officer, director, or sales manager of the seller.’’ See § 437.3(a)(3)(i)(c). 130 71 FR at 19061. 131 Id. 132 Jost, June 09 Tr at 32. A second panelist (Taylor, June 09 Tr at 35), and a commenter (Brooks-Workshop comment) agreed that existence of a bankruptcy might be relevant to a potential purchaser. 133 Cantone, June 09 Tr at 37. 134 MacLeod, June 09 Tr at 33. E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 76830 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations rather than file for bankruptcy, fraudulent business opportunity sellers tend to vanish and then simply reopen under new company names.135 Thus, there is little meaningful correlation between filing for bankruptcy and promoting a fraudulent business opportunity. Yet, many legitimate businesses have been forced by circumstances to seek the protection of bankruptcy courts. Therefore, bankruptcy filing would not seem to be a reliable marker for potential fraud, and would not likely help business opportunity purchasers avoid being defrauded. Therefore, the final Rule’s definition of action does not contain reference to bankruptcy.136 Finally, the Staff Report noted that some state administrative proceedings result in parties entering into assurances of voluntary compliance, while other states refer to such orders as assurances of discontinuance. The staff recommended, therefore, adding ‘‘assurance of discontinuance’’ to the categories of legal actions enumerated in the proposed definition. The Commission agrees with the staff’s recommendation and the final Rule’s definition of ‘‘action’’ now includes that phrase. Accordingly, § 437.1(a) of the final Rule defines ‘‘action’’ as follows: ‘‘A criminal information, indictment, or proceeding; a civil complaint, cross claim, counterclaim, or third party complaint in a judicial action or proceeding; arbitration; or any governmental administrative proceeding, including, but not limited to, an action to obtain or issue a cease and desist order, an assurance of voluntary compliance, and an assurance of discontinuance.’’ The definition of ‘‘action,’’ as recommended in the Staff Report, received no comment, and the final Rule adopts this definition of ‘‘action’’ as recommended. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 2. Section 437.1(b): Affiliate The term ‘‘affiliate’’ appears in several sections of the final Rule, most notably in § 437.3(a)(3), which requires a business opportunity seller to disclose not only litigation in which the seller was named as a party, but any litigation naming any of the seller’s ‘‘affiliates’’ or prior businesses. Section 437.1(b) of the 135 See, e.g., FTC v. Nat’l Vending Consultants, Inc., CV–S–05–0160–RCJ–PAL (D. Nev. 2005); FTC v. USA Beverages, Inc., CV–05–61682 (S.D. Fla. 2004); FTC v. Allstate Bus. Distribution Ctr., Inc., CV–00–10335AHM (C.D. Cal. 2001); FTC v. O’Rourke, No. 93–6511–Civ–Gonzalez (S.D. Fla. 1993); FTC v. Inv. Dev., Inc., 1989 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 6502 (E.D. La. June 7, 1989). 136 Similarly, the scope of 437.3(c)(3)(i) has remained unchanged and does not require the disclosure of bankruptcy filings. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 final Rule defines the term ‘‘affiliate’’ to mean: ‘‘An entity controlled by, controlling, or under common control with a business opportunity seller.’’ This definition also covers litigation involving a parent or subsidiary of the business opportunity seller. The definition of ‘‘affiliate,’’ as proposed in the INPR and RNPR, and recommended in the Staff Report, received no comment, and the final Rule adopts this definition of ‘‘affiliate’’ as recommended. 3. Section 437.1(c): Business Opportunity The definition of ‘‘business opportunity’’ delineates the scope of the Rule’s coverage. Under the final Rule, a ‘‘business opportunity’’ is a commercial arrangement that possesses three required elements. First, a seller must solicit a prospective purchaser to enter into a new business.137 Second, the prospective purchaser of the business opportunity must make a ‘‘required payment.’’ 138 And third, the seller must represent that the seller or one or more designated persons will provide any of three types of business assistance: (1) Providing locations for the purchaser’s use or operation of equipment, displays, vending machines, or similar devices; (2) providing outlets, accounts, or customers to the prospective purchaser; or (3) buying back any or all of the goods or services that the purchaser makes, including providing payment for such services as, for example, stuffing envelopes from the purchaser’s home. Because this section triggers the strictures and requirements of the Rule, the definition of ‘‘business opportunity,’’ and in particular, its specification of the types of ‘‘business assistance’’ that characterize a covered business, has generated substantial comment throughout this proceeding. After careful consideration of the amassed record, the Commission has crafted the final Rule’s business opportunity definition to ensure that it is broad enough to encompass many business opportunities that historically were not covered under the Original Franchise Rule or the interim Business Opportunity Rule, but which have routinely been shown to be associated with unfair or deceptive practices.139 At 137 Section 437.1(j) defines ‘‘new business’’ as ‘‘a business in which the prospective purchaser is not currently engaged, or a new line or type of business.’’ 138 See § 437.1(p) (defining ‘‘required payment’’). 139 As discussed supra in Section I.C, the definition of business opportunity no longer excludes transactions falling below a minimum monetary payment threshold nor does it require that the purchaser of the opportunity sell goods or PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 the same time, the definition of ‘‘business opportunity’’ has been narrowly tailored to avoid inadvertently sweeping in other business arrangements, such as traditional product distribution. This has been accomplished primarily through narrowing the types of business assistance that will trigger the Rule’s coverage from the five categories originally proposed in the IPBOR to the three categories described above. Consistent with the approach proposed in the RPBOR, the final Rule’s definition of business opportunity eliminates two types of business assistance that under the IPBOR would have triggered the Rule’s strictures and disclosure obligations: (1) Tracking or paying, or purporting to track or pay, commissions or other compensation; and (2) providing other advice or training assistance. The sections below describe the evolution of the business opportunity definition, including the rationale for eliminating these types of assistance from the definition of business opportunity. In the IPBOR, the proposed definition of ‘‘business opportunity’’ was designed to be broad enough to cover the sale of virtually any type of business opportunity, including two types in particular that historically had fallen outside the scope of the Original Franchise Rule—work-at-home and pyramid marketing opportunities.140 As explained more fully in the INPR, the Commission’s law enforcement experience and consumer complaints demonstrate that these two types of opportunities are sources of prevalent and persistent problems,141 which the Commission has traditionally challenged under Section 5 of the FTC Act.142 In order to reach these two types of opportunities, the INPR proposed a broad definition of ‘‘business opportunity’’ comprised of three services directly to end-users other than the business opportunity seller. These changes extend the scope of coverage to many business opportunities that previously escaped coverage. 140 71 FR at 19059. 141 In 2010, pyramid schemes generated approximately 2,000 consumer complaints, while work-at-home schemes generated over 8,000 complaints. See Consumer Sentinel Network Databook (March 2011) at 76, 79, available at https:// ftc.gov/sentinel/reports/sentinel-annual-reports/ sentinel-cy2010.pdf. 142 Many of these schemes fell outside the ambit of the Original Franchise Rule because: (1) The purchase price was less than $500, the minimum payment necessary to trigger coverage; (2) required payments were primarily for inventory, which did not count toward the $500 monetary threshold; (3) the scheme did not offer location or account assistance; or (4) the scheme involved the sale of products to the business opportunity seller rather than to end-users. See 71 FR at 19055, 19059. E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 elements: (1) A solicitation to enter into a new business; (2) payment of consideration, directly or indirectly through a third party; and (3) the making of either an ‘‘earnings claim’’ or an offer to provide ‘‘business assistance.’’ 143 The IPBOR’s definition of ‘‘business assistance’’ included assistance in the form of ‘‘tracking or paying, or purporting to track or pay, commissions or other compensation based upon the purchaser’s sale of goods or services or recruitment of other persons to sell goods or services.’’ 144 The Commission noted that many pyramid schemes offer this type of assistance, purporting to compensate participants not only for their own product sales but also for sales made by their participants’ downline recruits.145 Under the IPBOR, ‘‘business assistance’’ also included providing other advice or training assistance.146 In response to the INPR, many commenters argued that the IPBOR would have unintentionally swept in numerous commercial arrangements where there is little or no evidence that fraud is occurring.147 Several commenters contended that the IPBOR would have regulated a wide range of legitimate and traditional product distribution arrangements that were not associated with the types of fraud that business opportunity laws are designed to remedy. For example, one commenter suggested that the IPBOR could be read to cover product distribution through retail stores simply because the retailer pays for inventory and the manufacturer provides sales training to its retail accounts.148 The commenter suggested that its business operations would meet the IPBOR’s definition of business opportunity because: (1) The ‘‘payment’’ prong of the definition did not exempt voluntary purchases of inventory; and (2) providing retail staff with sales training would have satisfied the ‘‘business assistance’’ prong of the definition.149 Other commenters noted that even if a company provided no ‘‘business assistance,’’ it easily could have fallen under the ‘‘business opportunity’’ definition if the company made some representation about sales or profits sufficient to constitute an earnings claim.150 Other commenters in response to the INPR argued that the IPBOR would have 143 See 151 Venable-INPR 71 FR at 19087. 145 Id. at 19063 & n.106. at 19087 (IPBOR § 437.1(c)(v)). 147 See 73 FR at 16113–14. 148 Timberland-INPR at 2. 149 Id. 150 IBA–INPR at 4; see also PMI–INPR at 3. 146 Id. 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 at 2–3; NAA–INPR at 1–3. addition, the RPBOR clarified that a ‘‘required payment’’ does not include payments for the purchase of reasonable amounts of inventory at bona fide prices. The final Rule incorporates this clarification. 153 73 FR at 16124. 154 Id. 155 Id. 152 In 144 Id. VerDate Mar<15>2010 been broad enough to cover other types of commercial arrangements, such as bona fide educational programs offered by colleges and universities, the sale of certain books by publishers or book stores, and even the relationship between newspapers and independent carriers who distribute the newspapers to homes and businesses.151 Recognizing the unintended overbreadth of the Rule to sweep in these types of commercial arrangements as well as the unworkability of applying the Rule to MLMs, the Commission proposed the RPBOR with a narrower definition of ‘‘business opportunity.’’ The RPBOR ‘‘business opportunity’’ definition narrowed the types of ‘‘business assistance’’ that would trigger Rule coverage by deleting from the Rule text: (1) Tracking payments or commissions and (2) providing other advice or training assistance.152 The RPBOR definition also eliminated the ‘‘earnings claim’’ element from the definition.153 But for this modification, any business or commercial arrangement that made an earnings claim could have been a ‘‘business opportunity,’’ as defined by the Rule. To avoid transforming common commercial transactions into ‘‘business opportunities,’’ some commenters suggested narrowing the definition of ‘‘earnings claim.’’ 154 In the RNPR, however, the Commission determined that the better approach to address concerns about overbreadth was to tailor the substantive scope of the Rule, in part, by unlinking the definition of ‘‘business opportunity’’ from the making of an earnings claim.155 The Staff Report recommended that the Commission adopt this modification in the final Rule. No comments received in response to the Staff Report addressed this change. In the RNPR, the Commission solicited comment as to whether the narrowed Rule would adequately reach the field of business opportunity promoters who are likely to engage in unfair or deceptive practices, and conversely, queried whether the newlyproposed narrowing of the definition, and, hence, the scope of the RPBOR’s coverage, was sufficient to exclude from the rule traditional distributor Jkt 226001 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76831 relationships 156 that had been inadvertently swept into the IPBOR.157 The majority of comments in response to the RNPR focused on whether the revisions to the proposed Rule would capture MLMs.158 The majority of commenters applauded the Commission’s decision to narrow the scope of the rule, while others expressed concern that the MLM industry would continue to be subject to the RPBOR despite the more narrowed definition of ‘‘business opportunity.’’ 159 For example, some commenters expressed concern that the buy-back provision, set forth in § 437.1(c)(3)(iii), would sweep in MLM companies that offer to buy back their distributors’ unused inventory.160 These commenters suggested amending this provision to strike the word ‘‘provides’’ from § 437.1(c)(3)(iii), so that the definition of ‘‘business opportunity’’ would clearly not encompass a return of unused materials or merchandise.161 The Commission is not persuaded that such a change is necessary. In the RNPR, the Commission made clear that § 437.1(c)(3)(iii) was intended to capture work-at-home business opportunities in which the seller provides the purchaser with some supplies and the purchaser converts those supplies into a product 156 For example, commenters to the INPR noted that the IPBOR would cover ‘‘manufacturers, suppliers and other traditional distribution firms that have relied on the bona fide wholesale price exclusion to avoid coverage’’ under the Rule. Sonnenschein-INPR at 1–2. The Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association posited that the IPBOR would cover the relationship between a manufacturer and an independent contractor who sells the product to beauty supply companies, salons, and others. CTFA–INPR; see also LHD&L– INPR at 2 (noting that the IPBOR could cover the relationship between a manufacturer and a regional distributor of products). 157 73 FR at 16133. 158 DSA–RNPR. In addition, the Commission received more than 40 comments from various MLMs that expressed support and concurrence with DSA’s comments. See, e.g., Big Ear-RNPR; Jafra Cosmetics-RNPR; Lia Sophia-RNPR; LongabergerRNPR; Princess House-RNPR; Shaklee-RNPR. Some commenters expressed disappointment that the Commission proposed to exclude MLMs from coverage by the Rule. See, e.g., CAI–RNPR; DurandRNPR; PSA–RNPR; Aird-RNPR (Rebuttal); Parrington-RNPR. As previously noted, the Commission decided to narrow the scope of the Rule to avoid broadly sweeping in MLMs. 159 See, e.g., DSA–RNPR; Avon-RNPR; BatesRNPR; IBA–RNPR; MMS–RNPR; Mary Kay-RNPR; Melaleuca-RNPR; Primerica-RNPR; Pre-Paid LegalRNPR; IDS–RNPR; Tupperware-RNPR; VenableRNPR. 160 DSA requires that its members offer to buy back, at 90% of the salesperson’s cost, all resalable inventory and other sales materials. DSA–INPR at 35. 161 DSA–RNPR at 6 n.14 (noting that ‘‘the buyback provision is the cornerstone of the DSA’s self regulatory regime and a valuable protection for individual direct sellers’’); Mary Kay-RNPR at 6; Babener-RNPR; Melaleuca-RNPR. E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 76832 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations or other ‘‘good’’ for repurchase by the seller or other person.162 As the Staff Report noted, it would require a labored reading of this section to suggest that the word ‘‘provides’’ means ‘‘to return unused inventory the purchaser bought from the seller but was not able to sell.’’ 163 Moreover, the Commission has explicitly stated that this provision ‘‘would not include the offer to buy back inventory or equipment needed to start a business.’’ 164 In addition, some commenters argued that § 437.1(c)(3)(i) would inadvertently cover entities that offer, at no cost to purchasers, the use of office space and equipment for the operation of the purchasers’ business.165 These commenters were concerned that such offers could be construed under § 437.1(c)(3)(i) to be providing ‘‘locations for the use or operation of equipment * * * on premises neither owned nor leased by the purchaser.’’ In the RNPR, the Commission stated that this provision was intended to capture fraudulent vending machine and rack display schemes,166 as well as schemes where a purchaser is forced to lease office space, telephones and other equipment for operation of his or her business.167 Noting that the Commission did not intend to capture the incidental use of office space and equipment that the purchaser does not own, lease, or control, and for which the purchaser makes no payment, the Staff Report recommended a slight modification to § 437.1(c)(3)(i), amending it to state: ‘‘provide locations for the use or operation of equipment, displays, vending machines, or similar devices, owned, leased, controlled, or paid for by the purchaser.’’ 168 162 See 73 FR at 16123. Report at 34. 164 See 71 FR at 19062. 165 For example, Primerica, an MLM that sells insurance products and services, requires that its regional managers provide at no cost to ‘‘downline’’ sales agents the use of office space, supplies, and equipment (such as computers and printers) for the operation of his or her business. Primerica noted that, as a practical matter, it must require this assistance, as the regulatory structure in which Primerica operates necessitates that regional managers exercise compliance oversight functions with respect to the agents in their downlines. Primerica-RNPR; see also Avon-RNPR; TupperwareRNPR. 166 73 FR at 16123 (citing FTC v. Am. Entm’t Distribs., No. 04–22431–CIV–Martinez (S.D. Fla. 2004); FTC v. Advanced Pub. Commc’ns Corp., No. 00–00515–CIV–Ungaro-Benages (S.D. Fla. 2000); FTC v. Ameritel Payphone Distribs., Inc., No. 00– 0514–CIV–Gold (S.D. Fla. 2000); FTC v. Mktg. and Vending Concepts, No. 00–1131 (S.D.N.Y. 2000)). 167 FTC v. Equinox, Int’l, No. CV–S–99–0969– JAR–RLH (D. Nev. 1999). 168 The Staff Report recommended that the Commission strike the final clause of this provision of the RPBOR—‘‘on premises neither owned or leased by the purchaser’’—noting that the clause is mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 163 Staff VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 No comments responding to the Staff Report addressed this proposal. The Commission adopts the change recommended in the Staff Report. This change clarifies that the third prong of the ‘‘business opportunity’’ definition is triggered only when the seller offers to provide the purchaser, directly or through an intermediary, with locations in which to place equipment, displays, vending machines, or similar devices that the purchaser controls. This change will not compromise the long-standing coverage of the Rule, and will allow legitimate sellers to offer beneficial assistance to purchasers, at no cost to those purchasers.169 4. Section 437.1(d): Designated Person The term ‘‘designated person’’ appears in the definition of ‘‘business opportunity’’ to ensure coverage over those transactions in which a seller refers a purchaser to a third party for the provision of business locations, accounts, or assistance such as buy-back services, as specified in § 437.1(c)(3). That section makes clear that in order to fall within the scope of the business opportunity definition, the business assistance being offered need not be provided to the purchaser by the seller directly. Rather, a seller who represents that business assistance may or will be provided by a third party, such as a locator or a supplier, will still be covered by the Rule. Section 437.1(c)(3) uses the term ‘‘designated person’’ to refer to any third parties who would provide business assistance to a business opportunity purchaser and to close a potential loophole. For example, a fraudulent vending machine route seller would not be able to circumvent the final Rule by representing to a prospective purchaser that a specific locator will place machines for the purchaser.170 The referral to a third party would be sufficient to bring the transaction within the ambit of the Rule.171 Section 437.1(d) of the final superfluous, as a buyer would never need a seller’s assistance in identifying locations that the buyer already owns or leases. The Commission agrees, and the final Rule does not include this language. 169 In the final Rule, a non-substantive change was made to the definition of ‘‘business opportunity’’ proposed in the Staff Report—the colon and number signaling the first element of the definition was moved. This change simply makes the sentence structure parallel. 170 The Commission’s law enforcement experience demonstrates that closing this potential loophole is necessary. For example, in FTC v. Greeting Cards of Am., Inc., No. 03–60746–CIV– Gold (S.D. Fla. 2003), the FTC alleged that the business opportunity seller represented that a third party locator would secure locations for the prospective purchaser, and the locator failed to do so. 171 See 71 FR at 19064. PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 Rule defines the term ‘‘designated person’’ to mean ‘‘any person, other than the seller, whose goods or services the seller suggests, recommends, or requires that the purchaser use in establishing or operating a new business.’’ 172 One commenter argued that the proposed definition of ‘‘designated person’’ was overbroad and that its application would result in many multilevel marketing opportunities being swept into the Rule.173 For instance, if an MLM company requires its managers to provide the use of office space, equipment and supplies, and general business advice to new agents (and presumably to describe these types of assistance to prospective purchasers as part of a sales pitch),174 one could argue that the company would be covered by the Rule.175 The commenter offered several suggested revisions to resolve this problem, one of which was to specify that ‘‘designated person’’ does not include entities that receive no payment from the purchaser in order to receive the services provided.176 The Staff Report noted that alternate resolutions were more appropriate— namely the modification to the definitions of ‘‘business opportunity’’ and ‘‘providing locations, outlets, accounts, or customers,’’ and recommended, therefore, that the definition of ‘‘designated person’’ be adopted in the form proposed in the RNPR. No comments in response to the Staff Report addressed this definition, and the final Rule adopts the definition as recommended. 5. Section 437.1(e): Disclose or State Section 437.1(e) of the final Rule defines ‘‘disclose or state’’ to mean ‘‘to give information in writing that is clear and conspicuous, accurate, concise, and legible.’’ 177 The purpose of this definition is to ensure that a prospective purchaser will receive complete information in a form that a prospective purchaser easily can read. For example, the furnishing of a disclosure document without punctuation or appropriate 172 This approach is consistent with the Amended Franchise Rule’s analogous definitional elements, extending the scope of that rule’s coverage to reach transactions in which the franchisor provides to the franchisee the services of a person able to secure the retail outlets, accounts, sites, or locations. See 16 CFR 436.1(j). 173 Primerica-RNPR at 11. 174 The MLM company compensates managers for this service; there is no cost to down-line agents. Primerica-RNPR at 11. 175 Id. 176 Id. at 13. 177 See FTC Policy Statement on Deception, appended to Cliffdale Associates, Inc., 103 F.T.C. 110, 174 (1984) (discussing the standard for clear and conspicuous disclosures). E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations spacing between words would not be ‘‘clear.’’ Similarly, required information such as the number and percentage of prior purchasers who obtained a represented level of earnings would not be ‘‘conspicuous’’ if set in small type, printed in a low-contrast ink, or buried amid extraneous information. The proposed definition of ‘‘disclose or state’’ received no comment. The final definition, therefore, is adopted as proposed. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 6. Section 437.1(f): Earnings Claim The final Rule’s key feature is the disclosure document, which provides a potential purchaser of a business opportunity with five items of material information, including written disclosure of all ‘‘earnings claims’’ made by the seller, before the purchaser pays any money or executes a contract. This will allow a potential purchaser to compare a seller’s written representations with any oral representations made. The term ‘‘earnings claim’’ is defined in the final Rule as ‘‘any oral, written, or visual representation to a prospective purchaser that conveys, expressly or by implication, a specific level or range of actual or potential sales, or gross or net income or profits.’’ 178 This intentionally broad definition will cover all variations of earnings representations that the Commission’s law enforcement experience shows are associated with business opportunity fraud.179 For illustrative purposes, the definition includes two examples of communications that constitute earnings claims. The first of these examples describes common types of potentially fraudulent earnings claims: ‘‘A chart, table, or mathematical calculation that demonstrates possible results based upon a combination of variables.’’ This example is intended to clarify that sales matrices that purport to show income from an array of ‘‘vends’’ per day from a vending machine, for example, would constitute an ‘‘earnings claim’’ under the final Rule.180 The second example incorporates the principle, as expressed in the Interpretive Guides to the Original Franchise Rule, that ‘‘any statements from which a prospective purchaser can reasonably infer that he or she will earn a minimum level of income’’ constitute an earnings claim.181 Given the 178 This definition is substantially similar to the Amended Franchise Rule’s definition of ‘‘financial performance representation,’’ which is the Amended Franchise Rule’s equivalent of an earnings claim. See 16 CFR 436.1(e). 179 71 FR at 19065. 180 Id. 181 44 FR at 49982. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 prevalence of earnings claims in business opportunity sales, the Commission believes that a broad earnings disclosure requirement is necessary to prevent fraud. Therefore, the final Rule is not limited to express earnings claims, but also includes implied claims. Indeed, such implied claims are at least as likely to mislead prospective purchasers as express claims.182 The final Rule’s definition includes three specific examples illustrative of this type of earnings claim, as follows: ‘‘Earn enough to buy a Porsche,’’ ‘‘earn a six-figure income,’’ and ‘‘earn your investment back within one year.’’ Each of these three illustrative examples implies a minimum value—the cost of the lowest priced Porsche in the first example; at least $100,000 in the second; and an amount equal to the purchaser’s initial investment in the third. Accordingly, this language makes clear that these types of representations are indistinguishable from direct, express earnings claims. Some commenters have argued that the definition of ‘‘earnings claim’’ is overly broad and that the Commission should narrow the definition.183 Earnings claims, however, lie at the heart of business opportunity fraud and typically entice consumers into investing their money. The Commission has determined that narrowing the definition of ‘‘earnings claim’’ could allow business opportunity sellers to avoid disclosing critical information to prospective purchasers. Accordingly, the definition of ‘‘earnings claim,’’ as proposed in the RPBOR and recommended in the Staff Report, is adopted without change. 7. Section 437.1(g): Exclusive Territory This term is defined because it is referenced in § 437.6(n), which prohibits misrepresentations concerning territory exclusivity. Representations about exclusive territories are material because they purport to assure a potential purchaser that he or she will not face competition from other purchasers of the same business opportunity in his or her chosen location, or from the seller offering the same goods or services through alternative channels of distribution.184 Exclusive territory promises go to the viability of the business opportunity and to the level of risk entailed in the purchase.185 Indeed, misrepresentations about territories have commonly been 182 Interpretive Guides, 44 FR 49966. FR at 16124. 184 See 71 FR at 19065. 185 Id. 183 73 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76833 made by business opportunity sellers to lure consumers into believing that a purchase poses little financial risk.186 Section 437.1(g) of the final Rule defines the term ‘‘exclusive territory’’ as ‘‘a specified geographic or other actual or implied marketing area in which the seller promises not to locate additional purchasers or offer the same or similar goods or services as the purchaser through alternative channels of distribution.’’ This definition reflects the common industry practice of establishing geographically delimited territories—such as a city, county, or state borders—as well as other marketing areas, such as those delineated by population.187 The definition includes both representations that other business opportunity purchasers will not be allowed to compete with a new purchaser within the territory, as well as representations that the business opportunity seller itself or other purchasers will not compete with the new purchaser through alternative means of distribution, such as through Internet sales. The definition also covers implied marketing areas, such as representations that the seller or other operators will not compete with the purchaser, without delineating a specific territory, or stating a vague or undefined territory, such as ‘‘in the metropolitan area’’ or ‘‘in this region.’’ If untrue, any of these kinds of representations can mislead a prospect about the likelihood of his or her success.188 The definition of ‘‘exclusive territory’’ received no comment. Accordingly, the definition of ‘‘exclusive territory,’’ as proposed in the RNPR and recommended in the Staff Report, is adopted without change. 8. Section 437.1(h): General Media The term ‘‘general media’’ appears in § 437.4(b), which prohibits business opportunity sellers from making unsubstantiated earnings claims in the ‘‘general media.’’ 189 Section 437.1(h) of 186 E.g., FTC v. Vendors Fin. Serv., Inc., No. 98– 1832 (D. Colo. 1998); FTC v. Int’l Computer Concepts, Inc., No. 1:94CV1678 (N.D. Ohio 1994); FTC v. O’Rourke, No. 93–6511–CIV–Ferguson (S.D. Fla. 1993); FTC v. Am. Safe Mktg., No. 1:89–CV– 462–RLV (N.D. Ga. 1989). 187 71 FR at 19065. 188 Id. 189 This provision is based on an analogous provision in the Amended Franchise Rule, 16 CFR 436.1(e). The Commission has challenged allegedly unsubstantiated earnings claims made through the general media in numerous cases, e.g., FTC v. Wealth Sys., Inc., No. CV 05 0394 PHX JAT (D. Ariz. 2005); United States v. Am. Coin-Op Servs., Inc., No. 00–0125 (N.D.N.Y. 2000); United States v. Cigar Factory Outlet, Inc., No. 00–6209–CIV–Graham- Continued E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 76834 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations the final Rule defines ‘‘general media’’ to mean: ‘‘Any instrumentality through which a person may communicate with the public, including, but not limited to, television, radio, print, Internet, billboard, Web site, commercial bulk email, and mobile communications.’’ 190 Due to the explosive growth of advertising through mobile devices, the Staff Report recommended adding the phrase ‘‘mobile communications’’ to the list of instrumentalities enumerated in the definition.191 The definition of general media recommended in the Staff Report received no comment. The Commission has determined to adopt the staff’s recommendation and has therefore modified the definition of general media to include mobile communications. Moreover, the definition of general media is not intended to contain an exhaustive list of instrumentalities, and other current (and future) types of mass communication could also fall within the general media definition. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 9. Section 437.1(i): Material The term ‘‘material’’ is used in several sections of the final Rule.192 Section 437.3(a)(4) of the final Rule requires sellers that offer refunds and cancellations to ‘‘state all material terms and conditions of the refund or cancellation policy in an attachment to the disclosure document.’’ The term ‘‘material’’ is also used in other provisions of the Rule. For example, under § 437.2 (the obligation to furnish written documents), it is a violation of the Rule for the seller to fail to disclose the ‘‘material’’ information specified in § 437.3. Section 437.3, in turn, specifies the items of ‘‘material’’ information that must be disclosed. The definition of ‘‘material’’ at § 437.1(i) was added to the final Rule because some workshop participants expressed concern that § 437.3(a)(4) as originally proposed would not provide sellers with sufficient guidance about the types of Turnoff (S.D. Fla. 2000); United States v. Emily Water & Beverage Co., Inc., No. 4–00–00131 (W.D. Mo. 2000); and United States v. Greeting Card Depot, Inc., No. 00–6212–CIV–Gold (S.D. Fla. 2000). 190 See Interpretive Guides, 44 FR at 49984–85 (earnings claims made ‘‘for general dissemination’’ include ‘‘claims made in advertising (radio, television, magazines, newspapers, billboards, etc.) as well as those contained in speeches or press releases’’). The Commission notes that the Interpretive Guides recognize several exemptions to the general media claim, such as claims made to the press in connection with bona fide news stories, as well as claims made directly to lending institutions. Id. The Commission has proposed that future Compliance Guides to the new Business Opportunity Rule retain these standard general media claims exemptions. See 71 FR at 19065. 191 Staff Report at 42–43. 192 See §§ 437.1, 437.2, 437.3, 437.4, 437.6, 437.7, and 437.8. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 information that should be disclosed.193 In the Staff Report, the staff recommended that ‘‘material’’ be defined to mean as ‘‘likely to affect a person’s choice of, or conduct regarding, goods or services.’’ 194 This definition is consistent with the definition of ‘‘material’’ used in the Telemarketing Sales Rule (‘‘TSR’’).195 The definition of ‘‘material’’ recommended in the Staff Report received one comment.196 The commenter expressed concern that the definition could be used by sellers as a potential loophole. The commenter suggested that the definition effectively would permit a seller to avoid disclosing the information required by the Rule by arguing that such information is not likely to affect a buyer’s decision.197 The commenter further stated that if the Commission retained the recommended definition, the Rule should contain the following language: ‘‘Even though this Rule imposes various requirements for specific disclosures, sellers are permitted to dispense with any disclosures which would not be likely to affect a buyer’s choice of, or conduct regarding goods or services.’’ 198 The Commission disagrees with the commenter. The final Rule mandates the disclosure of certain types of information, which the Commission has determined are material to a purchaser’s investment decision.199 The language the commenter proposes does nothing to close any perceived loophole. The Commission is not persuaded that the commenter’s suggested change will improve clarity. In fact, it may obscure the definition. The Commission is persuaded by the Staff Report that a definition of ‘‘material’’ is necessary and adopts the definition as recommended. 10. Section 437.1(j): New Business The term ‘‘new business’’ appears in the first of three definitional elements of 193 Morrissey, June 09 Tr at 41; Taylor, June 09 Tr at 43; Cantone, June 09 Tr at 47. 194 Under the TSR, the Commission requires sellers to disclose all material terms and conditions of the seller’s refund policy if the seller makes a representation about the refund policy. See 16 CFR 310.3(a)(1)(iii). 195 See 16 CFR 310.2(q) (defining ‘‘material’’ to mean ‘‘likely to affect a person’s choice of, or conduct regarding, goods or services or a charitable contribution’’); see also FTC Policy Statement on Deception, appended to Cliffdale Associates, Inc., 103 F.T.C. 110, 174 (1984) (defining ‘‘material’’ misrepresentation or practice to mean ‘‘one which is likely to affect a consumer’s choice of or conduct regarding a product’’). 196 Dub-Staff Report. 197 Id. at 2–3. 198 Id. at 2. 199 See supra Section I.C.2 discussing the five substantive disclosure items and why they are material to consumers. PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 the term ‘‘business opportunity.’’ 200 Section 437.1(j) of the final Rule defines ‘‘new business’’ as a ‘‘business in which the prospective purchaser is not currently engaged, or a new line or type of business.’’ Because it is reasonable to assume that a veteran businessperson may need the final Rule’s protections as much as a novice,201 the latter language of the definition covers the sale of business opportunities to persons who may already be involved in some type of business other than that which is being offered by the seller.202 The proposed definition of ‘‘new business’’ received no comment. Accordingly, the Commission adopts the definition of ‘‘new business,’’ as proposed in the RNPR and recommended in the Staff Report. 11. Section 437.1(k): Person Section 437.1(k) of the final Rule defines the term ‘‘person,’’ a term used in many of the final Rule’s definitional or substantive provisions.203 The Staff Report recommended that the term be defined as ‘‘an individual, group, association, limited or general partnership, corporation, or any other entity.’’ 204 The Commission received no comments related to the proposed definition of ‘‘person.’’ The Commission adopts the definition of ‘‘person’’ as recommended in the Staff Report, with one slight modification. To clarify that the term encompasses entities that are businesses, the Commission added the word ‘‘business’’ to the last clause of the definition. Accordingly, the final Rule defines the term as ‘‘an individual, group, association, limited or general partnership, corporation, or any other business entity.’’ 205 The term ‘‘person’’ is to be read broadly to refer to natural persons, businesses, associations, and other business entities. Where the Rule refers to a natural person only, it uses the term ‘‘individual.’’ 206 200 The first of the three definitional elements of a ‘‘business opportunity’’ is a ‘‘solicitation to enter into a ‘‘new business.’’ Section 437.1(c)(1). This element distinguishes the sale of a business opportunity from the ordinary sale or products and services. 71 FR at 19066. 201 71 FR at 19066. 202 For example, an existing tire business owner could purchase a vending machine route, or a beverage vending machine route owner could purchase an envelope stuffing opportunity. 203 E.g., §§ 437.1; 437.6(q). 204 This definition is consistent with the definition of the term ‘‘person’’ in both the interim Business Opportunity Rule and the Amended Franchise Rule. See 16 CFR 436.1(n); interim Business Opportunity Rule 437.2(b). 205 This definition is consistent with the definition of the term ‘‘person’’ in the TSR. See 16 CFR 310.2(v). 206 71 FR at 19066. E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations 12. Section 437.1(l): Prior Business The final Rule requires sellers to disclose certain civil and criminal actions against them, including actions against a ‘‘prior business of the seller.’’ 207 Section 437.1(l) of the final Rule defines ‘‘prior business’’ to mean: (1) A business from which the seller acquired, directly or indirectly, the major portion of the business’ assets; or (2) Any business previously owned or operated by the seller, in whole or in part. This definition is intended to include not only an entity from which a seller acquired the major portion of the seller’s assets, but also businesses that the seller previously owned or operated.208 A broad definition of ‘‘prior business’’ is necessary to capture all of a seller’s prior operations.209 The Commission’s law enforcement experience shows that sellers of fraudulent business opportunities frequently ply their trade through multiple companies simultaneously or sequentially, disappearing in order to avoid detection, and then reemerging in some new form or in a different part of the country under new names.210 The definition thus requires a more complete disclosure of the seller’s business history. The final definition of ‘‘prior business’’ differs from the definition included in the RPBOR.211 The Staff Report recommended that the definition eliminate a reference to the prior businesses of the seller’s key personnel. Namely, the second prong of the original definition defined prior business to include businesses owned or operated by both the seller and the seller’s key personnel.212 The Commission agrees that this change is necessary for two reasons. First, mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 207 § 437.3(a)(3). 208 The definition of prior business is broader than the definition of ‘‘predecessor’’ found in the Amended Franchise Rule, which covers only an entity from which a seller acquired the major portion of the seller’s assets. See 16 CFR 436.1(p). 209 71 FR at 19066. 210 E.g., FTC v. Nat’l Vending Consultants, Inc., No. 05–0160 (D. Nev. 2005); FTC v. Joseph Hayes, No. 4:96CV06126 SNL (E.D. Mo. 1996); FTC v. O’Rourke, No. 93–6511–CIV–Ferguson (S.D. Fla. 1993); FTC v. Inv. Dev. Inc., No. 89–0642 (E.D. La. 1989). 211 Proposed § 437.1(k) of the RPBOR would have defined ‘‘prior business’’ to mean: (1) A business from which the seller acquired, directly or indirectly, the major portion of the business’ assets, or (2) Any business previously owned or operated by the seller, in whole or in part, by any of the seller’s officers, directors, sales managers, or by any other individual who occupies a position or performs a function similar to that of an officer, director, or sales manager of the seller. 212 Id. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 § 437.3(a)(3)(i)(B) requires disclosure of legal actions pertaining to a prior business ‘‘of the seller,’’ and so including the seller’s key personnel in the definition of ‘‘prior business’’ is confusing. Second, § 437.3(a)(3)(i)(C) separately requires disclosure of legal actions pertaining to the seller’s key personnel, namely, ‘‘the seller’s officers, directors, sales managers, or by any other individual who occupies a position or performs a function similar to that of an officer, director, or sales manager of the seller.’’ The change, therefore, does not affect the scope of the required disclosure of legal actions, but rather clarifies a term that is otherwise confusing and somewhat redundant. Accordingly, the Commission adopts the definition of ‘‘prior business’’ with the modification recommended by the staff. 13. Section 437.1(m): Providing Locations, Outlets, Accounts, or Customers The definition of ‘‘providing locations, outlets, accounts, or customers’’ relates to the third prong of the ‘‘business opportunity’’ definition, which sets forth the types of assistance the seller represents it will provide to the purchasers of its business opportunity.213 The Commission’s law enforcement history shows that fraudulent business opportunity sellers often falsely promise to assist purchasers in obtaining key elements necessary for the success of the proposed business: A source of customers, locations, outlets, or accounts. For example, deceptive representations concerning location assistance are the hallmark of fraudulent vending machine and rack display opportunities,214 while deceptive representations concerning the provision of accounts or customers are typical of medical billing schemes.215 In such schemes, the seller itself may purport to secure locations, outlets, accounts, or customers, or may represent that third parties will do so. Therefore, the final Rule defines 213 See § 437.1(c)(3). FTC v. Am. Entm’t Distribs., No. 04– 22431–CIV–Martinez (S.D. Fla. 2004); FTC v. Advanced Pub. Commc’ns Corp., No. 00–00515– CIV–Ungaro-Benages (S.D. Fla. 2000); FTC v. Ameritel Payphone Distribs., Inc., No. 00–0514– CIV–Gold (S.D. Fla. 2000); FTC v. Mktg. and Vending Concepts, No. 00–1131 (S.D.N.Y. 2000). 215 E.g., FTC v. Mediworks, Inc., No. 00–01079 (C.D. Cal. 2000); FTC v. Home Professions, Inc., No. 00–111 (C.D. Cal. 2000); FTC v. Data Med. Capital, Inc., No. SACV–99–1266 (C.D. Cal. 1999); see also FTC v. AMP Publ’ns, Inc., No. SACV–00–112–AHS– ANx (C.D. Cal. 2000). 214 E.g., PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76835 ‘‘providing locations, outlets, accounts, or customers’’ as: furnishing the prospective purchaser with existing or potential locations, outlets, accounts, or customers; requiring, recommending, or suggesting one or more locators or lead generating companies; providing a list of locator or lead generating companies; collecting a fee on behalf of one or more locators or lead generating companies; offering to furnish a list of locations; or otherwise assisting the prospective purchaser in obtaining his or her own locations, outlets, accounts, or customers, provided, however, that advertising and general advice about business development and training shall not be considered as ‘‘providing locations, outlets, accounts, or customers.’’ 216 The proviso, underscored above, has been added to the definition put forth in the RNPR. As originally proposed in the INPR, the definition ended immediately after the clause ‘‘otherwise assisting the prospective purchaser in obtaining his or her own locations, outlets, accounts, or customers.’’ In the RNPR, however, the Commission stated that in interpreting this unqualified clause, it would ‘‘continue to apply its longstanding analysis, which considers the kinds of assistance the seller offers and the significance of that assistance to the prospective purchaser (e.g., whether the assistance is likely to induce reliance on the part of the prospective purchaser).’’ 217 In the RNPR, the Commission solicited comment on three issues related to the ‘‘otherwise assisting’’ clause of the definition: (1) Whether the ‘‘otherwise assisting’’ clause adequately covered all of the business opportunity arrangements that should be within the scope of the rule; (2) whether inclusion of the ‘‘otherwise assisting’’ clause in the definition would cause traditional product distribution arrangements, educational institutions, or how-to books to be subject to the Rule; and (3) whether the clause would result in the inclusion of multi-level marketing relationships that otherwise would not be covered by the Rule.218 The majority of commenters who addressed this definition in response to the RNPR focused on when the ‘‘otherwise assisting’’ clause of the definition would be triggered. Commenters from the MLM industry 216 The proposed definition was intended to capture offers to provide locations that have already been found, as well as offers to furnish a list of potential locations; and includes not only directly furnishing locations, but also ‘‘recommending to prospective purchaser specific locators, providing lists of locators who will furnish the locations, and training or otherwise assisting prospects in finding their own locations.’’ 71 FR at 19066. 217 73 FR at 16124. 218 Id. at 16133. E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 76836 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 were concerned that various types of optional or no-cost assistance that MLM companies frequently offer their sales representatives could be considered to be ‘‘otherwise assisting.’’ 219 These include such things as general advice and training about how to succeed in a new business venture,220 general advertising for the purpose of promoting the MLM’s products or services,221 occasional ad hoc referrals from consumers who contact the company directly,222 and optional business tools, such as web templates and links to corporate Web sites that some MLM companies offer for sale to its sales representatives. Additionally, one commenter expressed concern that because of this open-ended clause, sellers of general training services, such as training on how to start a new business and advice about how to obtain customers, would be covered by the Rule.223 Commenters made a number of suggestions to cure what they perceived to be the overbreadth of this provision. Some commenters suggested omitting the word ‘‘customers’’ from the ‘‘otherwise assisting’’ provision and the corresponding provisions of the ‘‘business opportunity’’ definition.224 Other commenters recommended that the definition distinguish customers from ‘‘near customers’’ so as to exclude the provision of potential customers or businesses that the seller obtains from publicly available records.225 Others suggested adding a statement that nocost general business advice is not ‘‘providing customers.’’ 226 Another commenter suggested adding a new clause to the definition of business opportunity that would create an exception when the assistance offered by the seller is limited to advice or 219 E.g., DSA–RNPR at 5 (tools are intended to maintain brand uniformity and promote effective customer service). 220 E.g., Primerica-RNPR at 5 (provides advice and training about how to identify potential customers and how to make effective sales presentations); Tupperware-RNPR at 4 (provides training about how new representatives can develop own customer bases); Venable-RNPR. 221 DSA–RNPR at 4 (5/27/2008); Primerica-RNPR at 6. 222 E.g., Avon-RNPR at 3 (noting that this practice is designed to help potential customers find a sales representative, not to help sales representatives find potential customers); Mary Kay-RNPR at 7 (suggesting that merely providing the ability to search for a sales associate on the company’s Web site should not trigger the ‘‘providing locations’’ factor of the ‘‘business opportunity’’ definition); DSA–RNPR at 5; Melaleuca-RNPR at 2. 223 Venable-RNPR at 2. 224 DSA–RNPR at 5; Venable Rebuttal-RNPR at 3; Primerica-RNPR at 5. 225 Venable-RNPR. 226 Primerica-RNPR at 8; Tupperware-RNPR at 6; Avon-RNPR; Mary Kay-RNPR. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 training.227 Some commenters suggested eliminating the concept of ‘‘potential customers’’ from the scope of the ‘‘otherwise assisting’’ language.228 Finally, one commenter suggested revising the definition of ‘‘business opportunity’’ to require that the seller’s assistance in providing outlets, accounts or customers be a ‘‘material inducement’’ to the purchaser.229 The Staff Report noted a concern with narrowing the definition in the ways the commenters suggested, because it would allow promoters of fraudulent schemes to craft their sales pitches carefully to evade the Rule. The staff disagreed with commenters who recommended excising the word ‘‘customers’’ from the definition or diluting it in some fashion. Instead, the Staff Report recommended that the Commission continue its longstanding policy of analyzing the significance of assistance in the context of the of the specific business opportunity, focusing on whether the seller’s offer is ‘‘reasonably likely to have the effect of inducing reliance on [the seller] to provide a prepackaged business.’’ 230 While urging that the word ‘‘customers’’ remain in the definition, the Staff Report did recommend new qualifying language to address the concern that the definition could be read more broadly than intended. Specifically, the Staff Report recommended adding a short proviso to the ‘‘otherwise assisting’’ clause as follows: ‘‘provided, however, that advertising and general advice about business development and training shall not be considered as ‘providing locations, outlets, accounts, or customers.’ ’’ 231 The language recommended in the Staff Report received two comments. DOJ strongly agreed that ‘‘customers’’ should remain in the definition, noting that the allure of a business opportunity is the purported ready cash flow to the purchaser, which can come either from locations or customers, depending on the nature of the opportunity being 227 Pre-Paid Legal-RNPR. Kay-RNPR at 7 (as an alternative Mary Kay suggests that in the commentary to the Final Rule, the Commission make clear that passing on ad hoc referrals of customers who contact the company directly would not trigger this provision). 229 Melaleuca-RNPR. 230 Staff Advisory Opinion 95–10, Business Franchise Guide (CCH) ¶ 6475 (1995). 231 For example, this new proviso was designed to make clear that giving advice about how to demonstrate products, complete product order forms and how to process returns (TupperwareRNPR); or providing product advertising in the general media and training in customer and business development (Primerica-RNPR), would not be considered as ‘‘providing locations, outlets, accounts, and customers.’’ 228 Mary PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 offered.232 DOJ also agreed with the staff’s recommendation to include the proviso, but objected to further narrowing of coverage, arguing that any loophole would be vigorously exploited by fraudulent business opportunity sellers.233 Tupperware similarly encouraged the Commission to adopt the proviso as recommended, stating that the proviso will allow businesses to continue to provide general business advice and training without the risk of inadvertently falling under the aegis of the Rule.234 The Commission is persuaded by the Staff Report’s recommendation not to eliminate the word ‘‘customers’’ from the ‘‘otherwise assisting’’ clause of the definition, and to add qualifying language to the definition to tailor coverage more appropriately. Providing the prospective purchaser with assistance in obtaining customers is a feature common to many business opportunities and should be included in the definition. For instance, in the cases the Commission has brought against medical billing opportunities, it is typical for sellers to offer to provide assistance to the potential purchaser in finding customers for the medical billing service.235 Although the RNPR made clear that the ‘‘otherwise assisting’’ provision of the definition was not intended to apply to advertising, no-cost offers of general business advice, and training described by the various commenters,236 the qualifying language is necessary to prevent the definition from a broader reading than the Commission intends. The final Rule, therefore, contains the proviso recommended in the Staff Report. 14. Section 437.1(n): Purchaser The final Rule defines the term ‘‘purchaser’’ to mean ‘‘a person who buys a business opportunity.’’ By operation of the definition of ‘‘person,’’ 237 a natural person, as well as any other entity, would qualify as a business opportunity purchaser. The definition of ‘‘purchaser’’ received no 232 DOJ-Staff Report at 1–2. at 2. 234 Tupperware-Staff Report at 2. 235 See, e.g., FTC v. Med. Billers Network, Inc., No. 05–CV–2014 (S.D.N.Y. 2005); FTC v. Med.Billing.com, Inc., No. 3–02CV0702CP (N.D. Tex. 2002); FTC v. Electronic Med. Billing, Inc., No. SACV02–368 AHS (C.D. Cal. 2002); see also FTC v. Star Publ’g Group, Inc., No. 00cv–023D (D. Wyo. 2000) (offering to everything necessary to earn money processing HUD refunds); FTC v. AMP Publ’ns, Inc., SACV–00–112–AHS–Anx (C.D. Cal. 2000) (offering to provide list of companies in need of consumer’s home-based computer services). 236 73 FR at 16123. 237 Section 437.1(k). 233 Id. E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations comment, and the final Rule includes the definition as proposed. 15. Section 437.1(o): Quarterly To ensure accuracy and reliability of disclosures, § 437.3 (instructions for completing the disclosure document) requires sellers to revise their disclosures at least ‘‘quarterly.’’ 238 The definition of ‘‘quarterly’’ sets forth a bright line rule that is easy to follow and that ensures uniformity of disclosures: ‘‘Quarterly’’ means ‘‘as of January 1, April 1, July 1, and October 1.’’ Thus, the final Rule requires sellers to update their disclosure by those specific dates each year. The definition of ‘‘quarterly’’ received no comment, and the final Rule includes the definition as proposed. 16. Section 437.1(p): Required Payment Under the final Rule’s definition of ‘‘business opportunity,’’ the Rule reaches only those opportunities where the prospective purchaser of a business opportunity makes a ‘‘required payment’’ to the seller. Section 437.1(p) of the final Rule defines a ‘‘required payment’’ to mean: all consideration that the purchaser must pay to the seller or an affiliate, either by contract or by practical necessity, as a condition of obtaining or commencing operation of the business opportunity. Such payment may be made directly or indirectly through a third party. A required payment does not include payments for the purchase of reasonable amounts of inventory at bona fide wholesale prices for resale or lease. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 The final definition of ‘‘required payment’’ is the same as proposed in the RNPR and is substantially similar to that employed in the Amended Franchise Rule. It differs in that it includes language that reaches situations where a payment is made directly to a seller or indirectly through a third party. The RPBOR included this definition because without such a modification, fraudulent business opportunity sellers could circumvent the Rule by requiring payment to a third party with which the seller has a formal or informal business relationship.239 The last sentence of the definition excludes payments for reasonable amounts of inventory at bona fide wholesale prices.240 This effectuates the Commission’s determination articulated 238 Section 437.3(b) requires that until a seller has at least 10 purchasers, the list of references must be updated monthly. 239 73 FR at 16122. 240 The inventory exemption was originally set forth by the Commission in its 1979 Final Interpretative Guide to the Franchise Rule. 44 FR at 49967. The rationale for excluding payments for inventory was to exclude ‘‘[a]gency relationships in which independent agents, compensated by commission, sell goods or services’’ (e.g., insurance salespersons). Id at 49967–68. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 in the RNPR, that traditional product distribution arrangements should not be covered by the Business Opportunity Rule.241 Manufacturers, suppliers, and other traditional distribution firms ‘‘have relied solely on the bona fide wholesale price exclusion to avoid coverage as a franchise.’’ 242 The IPBOR had eliminated this inventory exemption in an attempt to bring pyramid schemes that engaged in ‘‘inventory loading’’ within the ambit of the Rule.243 Several commenters contended that the IPBOR would have regulated a wide range of legitimate and traditional product distribution arrangements that were not associated with the types of fraud that business opportunity laws are designed to remedy. For example, one commenter suggested that the IPBOR could be read to cover product distribution through retail stores simply because the retailer pays for inventory.244 This commenter suggested that its business operations would meet the IPBOR’s definition of business opportunity because, among other reasons, the ‘‘payment’’ prong of the definition did not exempt voluntary purchases of inventory.245 Because the application of the IPBOR to these types of arrangements was unintended, the RPBOR narrowed the definition of ‘‘business opportunity’’ by clarifying that a ‘‘required payment’’ does not include payments for the purchase of reasonable amounts of inventory at bona fide wholesale prices.246 Moreover, in the RNPR, the Commission determined that challenging deceptive pyramid schemes in targeted law enforcement actions brought under Section 5 of the FTC Act is a more cost-effective approach than attempting to address pyramid schemes through the elimination of the inventory exemption as proposed in the IPBOR.247 In response to the RNPR, MLM industry commenters urged the Commission to expand the inventory exemption additionally to exempt sales of business materials, supplies, and equipment to purchasers on a not-forprofit basis.248 Commenters stated that 241 73 FR at 16122. 242 Id. 243 71 FR at 19055. Inventory loading occurs when a company’s incentive program forces recruits to buy more products than they could ever sell, often at inflated prices. If this occurs throughout the company’s distribution system, the people at the top of the pyramid reap substantial profits, even though little or no product moves to market. 244 73 FR at 16113–14. 245 Id. 246 Id. at 16114. 247 73 FR at 16122. 248 Commenters suggested various ways to expand the exemption. See DSA–RNPR at 4 (recommending that the exemption include PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76837 the MLM business model often requires that new sales representatives purchase materials, supplies, or equipment to facilitate his or her sales to consumers.249 At least one commenter also noted that individuals sometimes pay to become sales consultants solely to obtain the products that are part of the company’s sales kit for personal use at less than retail cost.250 These commenters argued that without expanding the exemption, MLMs would be swept within the scope of the Rule.251 The Staff Report noted these concerns, but opined that they were misplaced and that the suggested changes to the definition of ‘‘required payment’’ were unnecessary.252 The staff recognized, however, that without making the changes suggested by the commenters, some MLM companies could indeed meet the ‘‘required payment’’ prong of the business opportunity definition.253 But, as noted previously, in order to be covered by the Rule, an entity must meet each of the three definitional components of the term ‘‘business opportunity.’’ 254 Meeting one prong is insufficient to come within the scope of the Rule. ‘‘business materials, supplies, and equipment sold on a not-for-profit basis’’); Mary Kay-RNPR at 2 (same); Avon-RNPR at 2 (exemption should extend to ‘‘sales aid or kits at cost’’); Tupperware-RNPR at 4 (required payment should not include payments for the purchase of reasonable amounts of inventory at bona fide wholesale prices, which may be used for resale, lease or display, or payments for products for personal use). Also, one commenter expressed concern that under the proposed definition, voluntary payments made to third parties unaffiliated with the seller for items or equipment to be used in a purchaser’s business could be considered a ‘‘required payment.’’ See IBA–RNPR at 4. The Commission disagrees. By its very words, the definition is not intended to capture payments of the type described by the commenter, as such payments are not made directly or indirectly to the seller. 249 DSA–RNPR at 4; Tupperware-RNPR at 2 (explaining that it requires purchase of a starter Business Kit that contains a selection of Tupperware products sold below retail value for demonstration at parties); Mary Kay-RNPR at 4 (initial sales kit, sold to consultant at below cost, is used to demonstrate products to customers); Avon-RNPR at 2 (sales kits, which explain business fundamentals and provide necessary equipment such as sales brochures, sales receipts, a tote bag, and product samples, are sold to independent sales representatives without a profit). 250 Tupperware-RNPR at 2 (products in starter Business Kit sold to sales consultants for $79 or $129 have retail value of $350 and $550 respectively). 251 DSA–RNPR; Mary Kay-RNPR; TupperwareRNPR; Pre-Paid Legal-RNPR. 252 Staff Report at 58. 253 Id. at 57. 254 Id. Those components are: (1) A solicitation to enter into a new business; (2) a required payment made to the seller; and (3) a representation that the seller will provide assistance in the form of securing locations, securing accounts, or buying back goods produced by the business. Id. at n.186. E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 76838 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations Furthermore, the other clarifications and changes to the definitions of ‘‘business opportunity’’ and ‘‘providing locations, outlets, accounts, or customers’’ under the final Rule tailor coverage appropriately, and make the additional suggested changes to the ‘‘required payment’’ definition unnecessary. Accordingly, the Staff Report recommended that the definition of ‘‘required payment’’ be adopted in the form proposed in the RNPR.255 Moreover, the Commission is concerned that expanding the exemption as the commenters suggested would create enforcement problems. For example, when a ‘‘required payment’’ includes both an inventory and noninventory component, it would be difficult to determine whether noninventory products—such as sales kits or display-related materials—were, in fact, being sold to purchasers at less than the seller’s cost. Finally, the suggested changes could have the unintended effect of allowing some fraudulent business operators to be excluded from the Rule’s coverage.256 In response to the Staff Report, the Commission received one comment addressing the ‘‘required payment’’ definition. The commenter set forth the same suggestion it had provided in response to the RNPR—that a ‘‘required payment’’ should not include situations where the seller agrees to buy back from the purchaser any unused inventory within 12 months of purchase for at least 90 percent of the purchaser’s cost.257 The commenter, a large MLM company, continued to argue that incorporating this change into the definition of ‘‘required payment’’ would assist in creating regulatory certainty that the Rule would not cover this situation. The commenter disagreed with one of the justifications given in the Staff Report for urging no modification of the definition—namely, that satisfying the ‘‘required payment’’ definition, by itself, is insufficient to bring an entity within the scope of the Rule. The commenter argued that legitimate companies that might satisfy the ‘‘required payment’’ prong have too much at stake to rely on one of the other two prongs of the ‘‘business mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 255 Id. 256 For example, in United States v. Universal Adver., Inc., No. 1:06–cv–152–DAK (D. Utah 2006), the fraudulent business opportunity seller told purchasers they could earn significant money by signing up business owners to pay monthly fees to display their business cards in rack display ‘‘profit centers.’’ In that case, the entire purchase cost went towards the rack display profit centers, which could be characterized as ‘‘display-related materials.’’ 257 Tupperware-Staff Report at 3. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 opportunity’’ definition to avoid coverage under the Rule.258 This argument is not persuasive. The definition of ‘‘required payment’’ already excludes payments for the purchase of inventory at bona fide wholesale prices. To the extent that the business opportunity seller offers inventory at prices above wholesale, such a payment would generate profit to the seller. If the Rule were modified to exempt payments for inventory not just at wholesale but also retail prices, such a change would give sellers an incentive to structure their payment schemes to require only payment for inventory, in order to avoid coverage by the Rule. Moreover, granting an exemption to sellers that offer to buy back some percentage of unused inventory within 12 months is problematic in light of the Commission’s experience that fraudulent business opportunity sellers could go out of business, change names, or disappear during that time.259 Accordingly, the final Rule incorporates the definition of ‘‘required payment’’ as recommended in the Staff Report. affirmative steps to authenticate his or her identity.’’ It includes a person’s handwritten signature, as well as an electronic or digital form of signature to the extent that such signature is recognized as a valid signature under applicable federal law or state contract law.’’ 262 This definition effectively permits business opportunity sellers to comply with the Rule electronically, consistent with the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act, 15 U.S.C. 7001,263 and is consistent with other rules enforced by the FTC.264 For example, a seller could obtain the digital signature of a purchaser by providing the disclosure document to the purchaser as a word processing document and require the purchaser to type his or her name into the form in the space provided for the signature. Alternatively, the seller could direct the purchaser to a web page that contains an electronic version of the disclosure document and require the purchaser to input his or her name before submitting the web-based form electronically. 17. Section 437.1(q): Seller The final Rule defines the term ‘‘seller’’ to mean: ‘‘A person who offers for sale or sells a business opportunity.’’ Like the ‘‘purchaser’’ definition, it contemplates that both natural persons and entities may be business opportunity sellers.260 The definition of ‘‘seller’’ is unchanged from the INPR, received no comment, either in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report, and the final Rule adopts the definition as recommended in the Staff Report. 19. Section 437.1(s): Written or In Writing 18. Section 437.1(r): Signature or Signed Under § 437.3(a)(6) of the final Rule, business opportunity sellers are required to attach a duplicate copy of the disclosure document, which is to be signed and dated by the purchaser. A designation for the signature and date is included at the bottom of the disclosure document. The Staff Report recommended adding a definition of ‘‘signature’’ to the Rule to clarify that a signature may include any electronic or digital form of signature to the extent that such signatures are valid under applicable law.261 The recommended definition of ‘‘signature’’ received no comment. As recommended in the Staff Report, § 437.1(r) of the final Rule states: ‘‘Signature or signed’’ means ‘‘a person’s 258 Id. 259 See DOJ–Staff Report at 2 (noting that many business opportunities begin and end within a short period of time). 260 71 FR at 19067. 261 Staff Report at 59. PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 The final Rule, like the version proposed in the INPR, defines the terms ‘‘written’’ or ‘‘in writing,’’ which are used throughout the Rule 265 as ‘‘any document or information in printed form or in any form capable of being downloaded, printed, or otherwise preserved in tangible form and read. It includes: type-set, word processed, or handwritten documents; information on computer disk or CD–ROM; information sent via email; or information posted on the Internet. It does not include mere oral statements.’’ This definition is designed to capture information stored on computer disks, CD–ROMs, or through new or emerging technologies, as well as information sent via email or posted on the Internet. Nevertheless, the definition seeks a balance, attempting to minimize compliance costs while at the same time preventing fraud. To that end, the definition would make clear that all electronic media must be in a form ‘‘capable of being downloaded, printed, or otherwise preserved in tangible form and read,’’ thus ensuring that a prospective purchaser who receives disclosures electronically can 262 This definition is consistent with the definition of signature in the TSR. See 16 CFR 310.3(a)(3). 263 See 71 FR at 19067 n.142. 264 See TSR, 16 CFR 310.3(a)(3)(i); Amended Franchise Rule, 16 CFR 436.3(u) (containing similar definitions). 265 E.g., §§ 437.2, 437.3(a), 437.4(a). E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations read them, share them with an advisor, and retain them for future use.266 In response to the Staff Report, one commenter expressed concern that the Rule would be overly burdensome if electronic compliance were not permitted.267 As discussed above, however, the definition of ‘‘written’’ or ‘‘in writing’’ and the definition of ‘‘signature’’ or ‘‘signed’’ each makes clear that sellers can comply with the Rule electronically.268 Thus, the Commission adopts the definition as recommended in the Staff Report. B. Section 437.2: The Obligation To Furnish Written Documents The next section of the Rule, § 437.2, imposes a core requirement of the Rule—the obligation of sellers to furnish prospective purchasers with a singlepage disclosure document before purchasers execute a contract or pay any money. As noted previously, the disclosure document required under the Original Franchise Rule and interim Business Opportunity Rule was often extremely lengthy, cumbersome, and in some ways ill-suited to business opportunity transactions. Through the INPR and the RNPR, the Commission sought to simplify and streamline this document in order to make the disclosures more meaningful to consumers. The disclosure document mandated by § 437.2 must be furnished at least seven calendar days before one of two events: Either (1) the execution of any contract in connection with the business opportunity sale; or (2) the payment of any consideration to the seller.269 This provision is intended to ensure a uniform standard for determining when sellers must furnish disclosures before potential purchasers must put their money at risk. Section 437.2 clarifies that ‘‘payment to the seller’’ refers to payments made either directly to the seller, or indirectly through a third party, such as a broker, lead generator, or locator. The seven calendar-day period was modeled on the Original Franchise Rule’s requirement that sellers furnish prospective purchasers with a completed copy of the disclosure document at least ten business days 266 71 FR at 19067. Franchise-Staff Report. 268 See also supra note 261. 269 Section 437.1(s) allows the disclosure document to be provided to purchasers electronically, such as by posting in on the Internet, sending it via email, etc. Providing the disclosure document through one of these alternative methods does not, however, relieve the seller of the obligation to obtain and maintain copies of signed and dated disclosure documents provided to purchasers. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 267 NG VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 before a potential purchaser pays any fee or executes any agreement in connection with the sale.270 In the INPR, the Commission proposed shortening the period of time business opportunity sellers would be required to provide the disclosures to potential purchasers.271 The Commission determined that seven calendar days is sufficient time to enable a prospective purchaser to review the information contained on the simplified and streamlined basic disclosure document and any earnings claims statements, as well as to conduct a due diligence review of the offering, including contacting references.272 The seven day time period was proposed in the RNPR.273 Only one comment received in response to the RNPR addressed this provision. The commenter argued, without providing any evidence, that imposing a ‘‘waiting period’’ of any length before a prospective purchaser signs a binding agreement or makes a payment to a seller would chill the sale of legitimate business opportunities.274 The Commission is not persuaded by this assertion, as both the Original Franchise Rule and interim Business Opportunity Rule have waiting periods in excess of seven days.275 Furthermore, a waiting period is particularly necessary in the sale of business opportunities, where consumers are often rushed into making investment decisions.276 No Staff Report comments addressed this provision. The Commission concludes that seven calendar days is sufficient time for purchasers to review the disclosure information and to conduct due diligence, and adopts § 437.2 as recommended in the Staff Report. C. Section 437.3: Disclosure Document Section 437.3(a) of the final Rule instructs business opportunity sellers how to prepare the basic disclosure document, identifies the categories of required disclosure, and specifies what information must be included in each of 270 See 71 FR at 19067. When the Original Franchise Rule was amended, the time period was extended to 14 calendar days. The interim Business Opportunity Rule maintained the 10 business-day period. See 72 FR at 15468, 15570. 271 See 71 FR at 19067. 272 Id. 273 See 73 FR at 16134. 274 Planet Antares-RNPR at 13–14. 275 See 16 CFR 436.2(a) (fourteen calendar days); § 437.2(g) of the interim Business Opportunity Rule (ten business days). 276 See, e.g., FTC v. Bus. Card Experts, Inc., No. 06–CV–4671 (PJS/RLE) (D. Minn. 2006) (representatives told consumers they must invest within one or two weeks in order to take advantage of special ‘‘promotional’’ rate). PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76839 these categories. Section 437.3(a) requires that sellers provide prospective purchasers with information about the seller, the seller’s litigation history, any cancellation and refund policy, any earnings claims, and references ‘‘in the form and using the language set forth in Appendix A’’ to the Rule. In addition, the final Rule adds a clause to § 437.3(a) requiring that if the offer for sale, sale, or promotion of a business opportunity is conducted in Spanish, the seller must provide the Spanish version of the disclosure document (Appendix B to the Rule) and provide any required disclosures in Spanish. For sales conducted in a language other than English or Spanish, the seller must use the form and an accurate translation of the language set forth in Appendix A. All disclosures, regardless of the language they are in, must be presented in a ‘‘single written document.’’ The Commission concludes that the single written document requirement is necessary to ensure that disclosures are not furnished in piecemeal fashion that easily could be overlooked or lost.277 In addition, requiring that the disclosure information be presented in the specified format will prevent sellers from circumventing the Rule by presenting damaging information in a format that is not sufficiently prominent to be noticed or understood, or that is not readily accessible.278 Failure to follow the form and language of the appropriate disclosure document would constitute a violation of Section 5 of the FTC Act.279 Section 437.3(a)(6) requires that a seller provide the potential purchaser with two copies of the disclosure document, one of which is for the prospective purchaser to sign, date, and return to the seller to maintain in accordance with § 437.7. Section 437.3(b) specifies that it is an unfair or deceptive practice and a violation of Section 5 of the FTC Act for a seller to fail to update the required disclosures at least quarterly to reflect changes in the five required categories of information, provided, however, that the list of references must be updated monthly, until the seller has 10 purchasers, after which quarterly updates are required. The sections that follow discuss the evolution of the disclosure document’s format and substance, the commentary received about the disclosure document, further revisions to the document recommended in Staff Report, and the Commission’s analysis of the comments and recommendations. 277 71 FR at 19067. id. 279 See § 437.3(a). 278 See E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 76840 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations 1. The Format of the Disclosure Document a. Background mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 As noted above, a major goal of this rulemaking has been to streamline the lengthy disclosure document that was appropriate in the sale of business format franchises, but ill-suited to the sale of traditional business opportunities. The interim Business Opportunity Rule, modeled on the Original Franchise Rule, required sellers to make more than 20 separate disclosures to potential purchasers.280 Requiring sellers to make these extensive disclosures imposes significant compliance costs on covered businesses, and many of the disclosures, which are material in the context of franchise sales are not well-suited to business opportunity sales. The final Rule aims to strike the proper balance between prospective purchasers’ need for pre-sale disclosure and the burden imposed on those selling business opportunities.281 Thus, the Commission proposed a single-page disclosure document both in the INPR and the RNPR. The Commission invited public comment about the form, including whether the overall presentation of information could be improved to make it more useful and understandable, and whether the substantive disclosure sections would capture the information that would most benefit potential purchasers.282 The Commission received no comments in response to this request. The Commission engaged a consultant with expertise in document design and comprehension to evaluate the proposed disclosure document to ensure that it adequately conveyed to consumers information material to the prospective business opportunity, and to determine whether the overall presentation of the information in the proposed document could be improved to make it more useful and understandable.283 Following publication of the initial proposed disclosure document, the consultant conducted extensive 280 These include but are not limited to information about the seller; the business background of its principals and their litigation and bankruptcy histories; the terms and conditions of the offer; statistical analyses of existing franchised and company-owned outlets; prior purchasers, including the names and addresses of at least 10 purchasers nearest the prospective buyer; and audited financial statements. Additional disclosure and substantiation provisions apply if the seller chooses to make any financial performance representations. 281 73 FR at 16130–32. 282 Id. at 16132–33. 283 See generally Macro Report. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 consumer testing that resulted in the revised proposed disclosure document that the Commission concluded substantially improved both the layout and the wording of the form.284 Some of the changes suggested by the consultant included: Changing the title of the form from ‘‘Business Opportunity Disclosures’’ to ‘‘Disclosure of Important Information about Business Opportunity’’; revising the preamble of the disclosure to make it more readable; adding a description of the Federal Trade Commission for consumers who may not be familiar with the agency; clarifying that the information on the form relates specifically to the business opportunity the reader is being offered; reformatting the sections that address earnings, legal actions, and cancellation or refund policies, to make those sections easier to understand; and adding a note below the signature line stating that the FTC requires that the business opportunity seller give potential buyers at least seven calendar days before asking him or her to sign a purchase contract.285 A copy of the revised proposed disclosure document, which incorporated the consultant’s suggested revisions, was included in the Workshop Notice announcing that the FTC would hold a public workshop on June 1, 2009.286 b. Public Workshop On June 1, 2009, the staff held a oneday public workshop in Washington, DC to get public input about the revised proposed disclosure document.287 The Workshop Notice invited interested parties to submit a request to participate as a panelist.288 Ultimately, the workshop featured five panelists who represented a range of interests in the proposed Rule, including a federal law enforcer,289 a state law enforcer,290 a consumer advocate,291 the general counsel of a national multilevelmarketing company,292 and a former 284 74 FR at 18714–15. generally Macro Report. 286 74 FR at 18714. 287 Id. In response to the RNPR, three commenters (DRA, Planet Antares, and Johnson) had originally requested a hearing as permitted in the RNPR (see 73 FR at 16110), but later agreed that a public workshop would address their issues and concerns more efficiently. 288 The staff received requests to serve as panelists from eight persons. It extended offers to serve as panelists to each of these individuals, three of whom declined. 289 Kenneth Jost (‘‘Jost’’), DOJ, Office of Consumer Litigation. 290 Dale Cantone (‘‘Cantone’’), Maryland Attorney General’s Office. 291 Jon Taylor (‘‘Taylor’’), Consumer Awareness Institute. 292 Maureen Morrissey (‘‘Morrissey’’), Tupperware. 285 See PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.293 Workshop panelists uniformly approved the revised proposed disclosure document, and applauded the Commission’s goal of streamlining and simplifying the form.294 All workshop panelists believed that the disclosure document generally accomplished the Commission’s stated purposes of streamlining and simplifying the form to make it more useful to prospective business opportunity purchasers, although they did have some minor suggestions related both to the proposed disclosure document and some of the substantive disclosure requirements, which are discussed below. 2. Section 437.3(a): Disclosure Requirements Section 437.3 requires that business opportunity sellers give prospective purchasers five items of material information, in a basic disclosure document.295 Each required disclosure is intended to help prospective purchasers make informed investment decisions. First, sellers must state their name, business address, and telephone number, the name of the salesperson offering the opportunity, and the date when the disclosure document is furnished to the prospective purchaser. Second, sellers must disclose whether or not they make earnings claims and, if so, must state the claim or claims in a separate earnings claims statement attached to the basic disclosure 293 William MacLeod (‘‘MacLeod’’). Although at the workshop Mr. MacLeod represented only his own views, he had previously filed comment to the INPR and RNPR on behalf of Planet Antares, which markets vending machine businesses. 294 See, e.g., Jost, June 09 Tr at 12–15 (noting that the simplicity of the form is the key to it being successful. ‘‘Having a one page document that focuses on the key issues such as legal actions, earnings claims, and references will put the most important information in the hands of the prospective purchaser.’’); MacLeod, June 09 Tr at 18 (same, and commending the staff for engaging a consumer research expert to copy test the disclosure document); Cantone, June 09 Tr at 20 (stating that the disclosure document captures the major components of business opportunity fraud, including fraudulent earnings claims and false refund offers); Taylor, June 09 Tr at 23 (noting that the disclosure document is ‘‘easy to understand and short and accomplishes its purposes.’’). 295 Like the Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule, the final Rule specifies that only sellers of business opportunities have an obligation to prepare and furnish a basic disclosure document. Other persons involved in the sale of a business opportunity—such as brokers, locators, or suppliers—have no obligation to prepare basic disclosure documents or to furnish such documents. The ultimate responsibility to ensure that disclosures are accurately prepared and disseminated rests with the seller. See 71 FR at 19067. E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations document.296 Third, sellers must disclose prior civil or criminal litigation involving claims of misrepresentation, fraud, securities law violations, or unfair or deceptive business practices that involve the business opportunity or its key personnel.297 Fourth, sellers must disclose any cancellation or refund policy.298 Finally, sellers must provide contact information for at least 10 of their purchasers nearest to the prospective purchaser’s location.299 A discussion of the record pertaining to each of the required substantive disclosures follows, along with changes made in the final Rule and consistent amendments made to the disclosure document.300 The final disclosure document is Appendix A to this Notice. The Spanish translation of the disclosure document is Appendix B to this Notice. a. Section 437.3(a)(1): Identifying Information The first required disclosure under the final Rule is the seller’s identifying information. Specifically, § 437.3(a)(1) requires that the seller disclose the name, business address, and telephone number of the seller, the name of the salesperson offering the opportunity, and the date when the disclosure document is furnished to the prospective purchaser.301 The Commission has long recognized the materiality of a business opportunity seller’s identifying information. For example, when the Original Franchise 296 Section 437.3(a)(2). 437.3(a)(3). Key personnel include any of the business opportunity seller’s principals, officers, directors, and sales managers, as well as any individual who occupies ‘‘a position or performs a function similar to an officer, director, or sales manager of the seller.’’ 298 Section 437.3(a)(4). The IPBOR would have required disclosure of the business opportunity seller’s cancellation or refund request history. Some commenters argued that requiring disclosure of the seller’s refund history would have had the wayward effect of discouraging legitimate businesses from offering refunds. Because companies with liberal refund policies were more likely to have refund requests than those offering no refunds, disclosure of refund requests could mislead consumers into thinking that a company offering liberal refunds is less reputable than the company offering no refunds. The Commission was persuaded by these commenters and omitted this required disclosure from the RPBOR. See 73 FR at 16126. 299 Section 437.3(a)(5). 300 In response to the Staff Report, one commenter suggested a myriad of additional changes to the disclosure document such as fields for the buyer’s contact information and additional fields for information related to the salesperson. NG Franchise-Staff Report at 4–5. The Commission finds the suggested changes unnecessary. 301 Other Commission trade regulation rules similarly require disclosure of identifying information. E.g., Wool Products Labeling Rule, 16 CFR 300.14; Fur Products Labeling Rule, 16 CFR 301.43. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 297 Section VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:47 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 Rule was promulgated, the Commission concluded that: The failure to disclose such material information * * * may mislead the [prospect] as to the business experience of the parties with whom he or she is dealing and * * * could easily result in economic injury to the [prospect] because of the * * * dependence upon the business experience and expertise of the [business opportunity seller].302 This identifying information is material because it enables a prospective purchaser to contact the seller and any salesperson for additional information. This information also enables a prospective purchaser to perform additional, independent research on the seller and salesperson. At the same time, for law enforcement purposes, this disclosure provides a written record of who provided the required disclosures and when they did so.303 b. Section 437.3(a)(2): Earnings Claims The final Rule permits sellers to make an earnings claim, provided there is a reasonable basis for the claim and that the seller can substantiate the claim at the time it is made.304 If the seller makes no earnings claim, § 437.3(a)(2) directs the seller simply to check the ‘‘no’’ box on the disclosure document.305 Moreover, § 437.3(1)(4) specifies items of information necessary to substantiate an earnings claim. If the seller does make an earnings claim, the Rule requires the seller to check the ‘‘yes’’ box and attach to the basic disclosure document a second document, the earnings claim statement. The disclosure document advises the prospective purchaser of this requirement: ‘‘If the statement is yes, [the seller] must attach an Earnings Claim Statement to this form.’’ 306 At the June 1, 2009 workshop, the DOJ representative spoke approvingly of the form and language of this disclosure, 302 43 FR at 59642. Workshop panelists did not discuss this required disclosure. 304 This is consistent with analogous provisions in the Amended Franchise Rule, 16 CFR 436.9, and the interim Business Opportunity Rule, 437.1(c). 305 One workshop panelist commented that an earnings claim is the most important selling feature of any business opportunity, and for that reason, sellers should not be permitted to state they make no earnings claim. Taylor, June 09 Tr at 68. The Commission agrees that the earnings claim is important to purchasers’ investment decisions, but recognizes that there is an important distinction between forcing sellers to make an earnings claims and requiring them to substantiate any claims they choose to make. 306 Business opportunity sellers must also make the following prescribed cautionary statement in close proximity to the ‘‘yes’’ or ‘‘no’’ check boxes: ‘‘Read this statement carefully. You may wish to show this information to an advisor or accountant.’’ 303 The PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76841 noting that if a seller had checked the ‘‘no’’ box, but had, in fact, made an earnings claim, the misrepresentation would be in violation of Section 5 of the FTC Act, and the seller would be subject to civil penalties.307 A couple of workshop panelists, however, found the language confusing and believed that a potential purchaser reading this disclosure might not know who should be completing this section of the form— the purchaser, or the seller.308 Two of the panelists had some suggestions for improving the language of the disclosure.309 The Staff Report concluded that revisions to the language of the earnings disclosure were unnecessary. The Commission agrees. The initial proposed disclosure document, including the earnings disclosure, underwent substantial revision based upon consumer testing. Testing of the format and language of the earnings disclosure revealed that, contrary to the panelists’ concerns, consumers did understand the meaning of the earnings disclosure, and realized that ‘‘a check in the ‘No’ box would contradict any previous earnings claim that a salesperson had made.’’ 310 Indeed, the ultimate test for the effectiveness of the disclosure document is whether, in practice, the written form helps consumers detect a contradictory oral statement made by the seller. On that point, the revised proposed disclosure document proved effective—9 out of 10 participants in the FTC study who heard a hypothetical oral sales presentation understood that it had included an earnings claim, and when they subsequently reviewed the disclosure document, correctly identified a written contradiction of the oral presentation.311 Based on the results of the consumer testing, the Commission is not persuaded that the workshop panelists’ suggestions would improve the comprehension of the earnings claim disclosure, and therefore has not adopted any changes to it. c. Section 437.3(a)(3): Legal Actions Section 437.3(a)(3) addresses deceptive practices in the sale of business opportunities by requiring sellers to disclose material information about certain prior legal actions. Specifically, § 437.3(a)(3)(i) requires business opportunity sellers to provide prospective purchasers with 307 Jost, June 09 Tr at 56. June 09 Tr at 55; Taylor, June 09 Tr 308 Cantone, at 56. 309 E.g., Taylor, June 09 Tr at 57; Cantone, June 09 Tr at 57. 310 Macro Report at 15. 311 Id. E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 76842 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations information about legal actions of or against the seller, the seller’s affiliates or prior businesses, and certain key personnel that involve ‘‘misrepresentation, fraud, securities law violations, or unfair or deceptive practices, including violations of any FTC rule.’’ Key personnel include ‘‘any of the seller’s officers, directors, sales managers, or any individual who occupies a position or performs a function similar to an officer, director, or sales manager of the seller.’’ 312 If the seller has such information to disclose, it must check the ‘‘yes’’ box on the disclosure document. If there are no actions to disclose, the seller must check the ‘‘no’’ box. Comments on this section centered on two main issues.313 First, some expressed concern that the legal action disclosure might unfairly tarnish the image of a seller who had meritless lawsuits filed against it. Second, the DOJ focused on enhancing the government’s ability to prosecute violations of the Rule, and to that end, made recommendations to revise the form of the disclosure.314 In addition, DOJ submitted a comment in response to the INPR advising the Commission to add to the title of the disclosure document a citation to the legal authority requiring the seller to provide the basic disclosure document.315 The final Rule incorporates this suggestion. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 (1) Legal Action Disclosure Permits a Brief Description Section 437.3(a)(3)(ii) requires that if the seller has litigation to disclose pursuant to § 437.3(a)(3)(i), it must provide an attachment to the disclosure document with the full caption of each legal matter (names of the principal parties, case number, full name of court, and filing date). The RPBOR would have prohibited a seller from including any additional information about the legal 312 In the RNPR, the Commission solicited comment on whether this provision adequately captures the types of individuals whose litigation history should be disclosed. It received no comments responsive to that request. In addition, in the RNPR, the Commission determined that it would not be appropriate to require the disclosure of legal actions involving the seller’s sales employees, which would have been required under the IPBOR. The Commission reasoned that the burden of collecting the litigation histories for every sales person was not outweighed by the corresponding benefit to prospective purchasers. 73 FR at 16126. 313 In addition, discussion at the workshop focused on whether a seller’s bankruptcy history should be considered a legal action and required to be disclosed. As noted in Section III.A.1, discussing the definition of ‘‘action,’’ the Commission has determined not to require the disclosure of bankruptcy actions. 314 See 73 FR at 16125. 315 Id. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 action including truthful statements about the nature of the litigation or its ultimate outcome.316 One commenter stated that in some instances, litigation may be meritless and disposed of by means of short of formal adjudication— for example through dismissal or settlement of nuisance lawsuits—and sellers should have the opportunity to provide an explanation of any disclosed legal actions.317 A panelist at the workshop agreed and also noted that the FTC’s expert report on the consumer testing of the disclosure document revealed that consumers had very negative reactions to the existence of legal actions against the seller.318 The DOJ panelist, on the other hand, expressed concern that, if allowed to provide a description of disclosed legal actions, sellers might craft misleading descriptions.319 He stated that he has seen such abuse in the context of the Franchise Rule,320 although he did acknowledge that it might be unfair to prohibit sellers from providing an explanation when they have been sued.321 The Commission’s initial decision not to allow inclusions of details regarding the nature of each legal action, as is provided in the Amended Franchise Rule, was prompted by an attempt to minimize compliance costs to sellers.322 Furthermore, the Commission reasoned that if ‘‘armed with the full caption, a prospective purchaser can seek additional information if he or she so chooses,’’ as ‘‘the public’s ability to review complaints in legal proceedings has become significantly easier since the 316 73 FR at 16125–26. Hailey (‘‘Hailey’’), Venable LLP, June 09 Tr at 122. 318 MacLeod, June 09 Tr at 124. The panelist also argued that lawsuits are often overpled and that there may be instances where some claims (such as constitutional claims) are not really of particular materiality to a prospective purchaser. 319 Jost, June 09 Tr at 125. 320 The Amended Franchise Rule requires that legal actions against franchise sellers be disclosed to potential purchasers. 16 CFR 436.5(c)(3) requires that franchisors summarize, ‘‘the legal and factual nature of each claim in the action, the relief sought or obtained, and any conclusion of law and fact,’’ and provide information about damages or settlement terms, terms of injunctive orders, dates of any convictions or pleas, and the sentence or penalty imposed. The interim Business Opportunity Rule requires that sellers disclose only: the identity and location of the court or agency; the date of conviction, judgment, or decision; the penalty imposed; the damages assessed; the terms of the settlement or the terms of the order; and the date, nature, and issuer of each such ruling. A seller may also include a summary opinion of counsel as to any pending litigation, but only if counsel’s consent to the use of such opinion is included in the disclosure statement. Interim Business Opportunity Rule § 437.1(a)(4)(ii). 321 Jost, June 09 Tr at 125. 322 71 FR at 19069. 317 Gary PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 advent of the Internet * * * [because] [m]any legal documents are now routinely posted on court or related Web sites.’’ 323 The Commission noted that since the disclosure document itself instructs potential purchasers that the legal actions disclosed pertain to misrepresentation, fraud, securities law violation, or unfair or deceptive practices, potential purchasers would have a basic understanding of the subject matter of the action.324 The existence of legal actions against the seller is not necessarily proof of fraud and that some legal actions may be without merit. The Commission concludes, however, that the existence of legal actions of the type enumerated—misrepresentation, fraud, securities law violations, or unfair or deceptive practices—against the business opportunity seller or its key personnel is critical to assessing the financial risk of the proposed investment.325 This is highly material information. Indeed, discovering that a seller has a history of violating laws and regulations is perhaps the best indication that a particular business opportunity is a high-risk investment. In fact, in the Commission’s law enforcement experience, business opportunity promoters routinely have hidden such material information from prospective purchasers, to the detriment of those purchasers.326 The Staff Report cautioned that if the Rule allowed sellers to provide a description of the legal action, it would provide an opportunity for dishonest sellers to misrepresent or mischaracterize such actions, including their ultimate outcomes.327 Nevertheless, the Staff Report acknowledged that legitimate sellers potentially could be harmed if not afforded the opportunity to address in writing the legal action they are 323 Id. at n.165. at 19068. 325 See supra Section III.A.1. 326 E.g., FTC v. Nat’l Vending Consultants, Inc., No. CV–S–05–0160–RCJ–PAL (D. Nev. 2005) (failure to disclose guilty plea for mail fraud of de facto corporate officer); FTC v. Netfran Dev. Corp., No. 1:05–cv–22223–UU (S.D. Fla. 2005) (failure to disclose FTC injunction against principal); FTC v. Am. Entm’t Distribs., Inc., No. 04–22431–Civ– Martinez (S.D. Fla. 2004) (failure to disclose prior FTC injunction); United States v. We The People Forms and Serv. Ctrs. USA, Inc., No. CV 04 10075 GHK FMOx (C.D. Cal. 2004) (failure to disclose prior lawsuits); FTC v. Hayes, No. Civ. 4:96CV02162SNL (E.D. Mo 1996) (failure to disclose prior state fines and injunctive actions); FTC v. WhiteHead, Ltd, Bus. Franchise Guide (CCH) ¶ 10062 (D. Conn. 1992) (failure to disclose fraud action); FTC v. Inv. Dev. Inc., Bus. Franchise Guide (CCH) ¶ 9326 (E.D. La. 1989) (failure to disclose insurance fraud convictions). 327 Staff Report at 75. 324 Id. E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations required to disclose.328 The staff recommended, therefore, that § 437.3(a)(3)(ii) be revised to add the following sentence: ‘‘For each action, the seller may also provide a brief accurate statement not to exceed 100 words that describes the action.’’ No comments to the Staff Report addressed this revision. Upon consideration of the record, the staff’s recommendation, and the rationale for that recommendation, the Commission adopts § 437.3(a)(3)(ii) as recommended in the Staff Report. Noncompliance with the restriction of this provision (i.e., statements that exceed the word limitation or that mischaracterize the action or its outcome) is a violation of the Rule. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 (2) Amendment to the Disclosure Document The DOJ panelist advocated for a small amendment to the ‘‘Legal Actions’’ section of the proposed disclosure document published prior to the Workshop. Specifically, the DOJ panelist recommended adding the phrase ‘‘including violation of an FTC Rule’’ after the phrase ‘‘or unfair or deceptive act or practice * * *,’’ to make clear to business opportunity sellers that a violation of an FTC Rule is an unfair or deceptive practice.329 The Staff Report agreed that this recommended addition to the ‘‘Legal Actions’’ section of the disclosure document would assist enforcement efforts by eliminating any significant question as to whether the defendant had actual or implied knowledge that violation of an FTC rule is an unfair and deceptive practice, and recommended that the disclosure document include this language.330 No comments to the Staff Report addressed this addition. Upon consideration of the record and the rationale for the recommendation, the Commission adopts the staff’s recommendation. Accordingly, § 437.3(a)(3)(i) of the final Rule requires disclosure of any civil or criminal action for misrepresentation, fraud, securities law violations, or unfair or deceptive practices, ‘‘including violations of any FTC Rule.’’ The disclosure documents 328 As the Commission previously noted in the RNPR, however, nothing in the Rule would prevent the seller from speaking with the consumer to explain the nature or outcome of any legal action disclosed on the form. 73 FR at 16125. 329 Jost, June 09 Tr at 36. 330 The DOJ, upon request of the FTC, has the authority to seek civil penalties for violations of trade regulation rules issued pursuant to the FTC Act, but to obtain such penalties, the government must prove ‘‘actual knowledge or knowledge fairly implied on the basis of objective circumstances that such act is unfair or deceptive and is prohibited by such rule.’’ See 15 U.S.C. 56(a)(1); 45(m)(1)(A). VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 provided as Appendix A and Appendix B have also been revised to include this language. d. Section 437.3(a)(4): Cancellation or Refund Policy Section 437.3(a)(4) pertains to a common practice among fraudulent business opportunity sellers: offering prospective purchasers an illusory right to cancel or to seek a whole or partial refund.331 The Rule does not require any seller to offer cancellation or a refund; however, if the seller does offer a refund or the right to cancel the purchase, it must ‘‘state the material terms of the refund or cancellation policy in an attachment to the disclosure document.’’ 332 The disclosure requirement is complemented by a prohibition, at § 437.6(l), against failing ‘‘to provide a refund or cancellation when the purchaser has satisfied the terms and conditions pursuant to § 437.3(a)(4).’’ The disclosure requirement is also complemented by prohibitions on other misrepresentations.333 As discussed below, the Commission adopts the staff’s recommendation that sellers be required to state the ‘‘material’’ terms of the refund or cancellation policy, and the term ‘‘material’’ is now included in the final Rule provision. Under the final Rule, a seller that offers a cancellation or refund policy must check the ‘‘yes’’ box on the disclosure document and also must attach to the disclosure document a written description of its policy. To minimize compliance costs, the seller may comply with this requirement by attaching to the disclosure document a copy of a pre-existing document that details the seller’s cancellation or refund policy. For example, a seller may detail its refund policy in a company brochure. If it does, the seller need only attach to the disclosure document the particular page setting forth the refund policy. As in the other examples, if no cancellation or refund is offered, then the seller need only check the ‘‘no’’ box. 331 See, e.g., FTC v. AMP Publ’n., Inc., No. SACV– 00–112–AHS–ANx (C.D. Cal. 2001); FTC v. Home Professions, Inc., No. SACV 00–111 AHS (Eex) (C.D. Cal. 2001); FTC v. Innovative Prods., No. 3:00–CV– 0312–D (N.D. Tex. 2000); FTC v. Encore Networking Servs., No. 00–1083 WJR (AIJx) (C.D. Cal. 2000); FTC v. Mediworks, Inc., No. 00–01079 (C.D. Cal. 2000). Indeed, allegations that business opportunity sellers misrepresented their refund policies rank among the top 10 complaint allegations in Commission business opportunity cases brought under Section 5. See 71 FR 19069. 332 The Commission adopted a similar approach in the TSR. 16 CFR 310.3(a)(1)(iii) (if a seller makes a representation about a refund policy, it must disclose ‘‘a statement of all material terms and conditions of such policy’’). 333 See § 437.6. PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76843 Workshop panelists raised two issues related to the disclosure of refund and cancellation policies. First, panelists questioned whether information about the percentage of purchasers requesting and obtaining refunds should be part of the disclosure, and second, whether § 437.3(a)(4) should specify particular terms of a refund policy that must be disclosed to potential purchasers. The sections that follow address each of these concerns. (1) Percentage of Purchasers Requesting and Obtaining Refunds One panelist stated that information concerning the percentage of purchasers requesting and obtaining refunds would be relevant information to potential purchasers.334 Another panelist disagreed, arguing that requiring disclosure of this information might have the unintended consequence of harming purchasers by discouraging sellers from offering refunds.335 The Commission previously considered this issue. The IPBOR would have required a seller that had a cancellation or refund policy to disclose the number of purchasers who had asked to cancel or who had sought a refund in the two previous years.336 In the INPR, the Commission specifically sought comment on the proposed disclosure of the seller’s refund history, particularly on the likely effect this disclosure might have on the willingness of sellers to offer refunds.337 Based upon arguments articulated in the comments to the INPR, the Commission concluded that this disclosure would not be useful to consumers, and that disclosure of refund history could be unduly prejudicial to business opportunities that offer and liberally provide refunds to prior purchasers.338 Indeed, a prospective purchaser might compare the refund requests of a fraudulent seller with no refund policy against a legitimate seller with a liberal refund policy and inaccurately conclude that the legitimate seller offers a riskier business venture. The requirement, therefore, could create a perverse incentive to discontinue refund policies.339 The Commission concluded that disclosure of refund history would not reliably remedy deception on this issue, and it was eliminated in the RPBOR.340 334 Taylor, June 09 Tr at 48. One commenter agreed. Brooks-Workshop comment. 335 MacLeod, June 09 Tr at 50. 336 71 FR at 19088 (IPBOR § 437.3(a)(5)). 337 Id. at 19070. 338 73 FR at 16126. 339 Id. at 16115. 340 Id. at 16126. E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 76844 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations Panelists in favor of requiring the disclosure of seller’s refund histories presented no arguments other than those previously considered by the Commission. Accordingly, the final Rule does not require this disclosure. (2) Information To Be Disclosed About Refund and Cancellation Policies Although workshop participants agreed that information about a seller’s cancellation and refund policies is an important component of a potential purchaser’s evaluation of a business opportunity, they were universally concerned that § 437.3(a)(4) did not contain enough specificity about what information must be disclosed to potential purchasers and suggested that additional guidance from the Commission was necessary.341 The panelist from the Maryland Attorney General’s Office thought the Rule should specify that all material terms of a refund policy must be disclosed, because in the context of business opportunity sales, it has been his experience that the requirements to obtain a refund are often so onerous that as a practical matter, no one is ever eligible.342 Some panelists felt the Rule should identify specific information to be disclosed. For example, one commenter noted that the period of time a seller has to exercise a right to cancellation or refund, or any conditions on return of unsold goods are material and should be required to be disclosed to potential purchasers.343 One panelist suggested that the DSA Code of Ethics’ refund requirements might serve as a model to identify types of information that should be disclosed to potential purchasers.344 After considering these comments, the Staff Report recommended modifying § 437.3(a)(4) to track closely a similar disclosure requirement in the TSR.345 341 See June 09 Tr at 39–53. June 09 Tr at 47 (providing as an example a company offering a 100% buy-back for vending machines and noting the company’s failure to disclose that the cost of sending back the vending machine would be borne by the purchaser, and would often exceed any refund due, thereby rendering any potential refund worthless). 343 Taylor, June 09 Tr at 43. 344 Morrissey, June 09 Tr at 45. The Commission has reviewed applicable provisions of the DSA Code of Ethics, but does not find them applicable. DSA dictates the specific terms of its members’ refund policies. The RPBOR, by contrast, did not specify the requirements of a seller’s refund or cancellation policy, or even whether the seller must have such policies. Instead, it attempted to ensure that if such policies existed, potential purchasers were aware of how they can exercise their rights under those policies. 345 Specifically, in describing its approach regarding refund and cancellation policy disclosures, the Commission noted that it ‘‘adopted the same approach in the TSR.’’ 71 FR at 19069 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 342 Cantone, VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 The TSR requires that if the seller or telemarketer makes a representation about a refund, cancellation, exchange, or repurchase policy, it must provide the purchaser with a statement of all material terms and conditions of its policy.346 Requiring the disclosure of all material terms of a refund or cancellation policy most effectively accomplishes the Commission’s stated purpose of ensuring that potential purchasers are provided with information that would assist them in assessing the financial risk associated with the offer. Indeed, the commentary to the IPBOR indicates that the Commission, in fact, intended to require sellers to disclose all material terms of refund and repayment policies to prospective purchasers.347 Therefore, upon consideration of the record, the Commission adopts the staff’s recommendation. Accordingly, the penultimate sentence of § 437.3(a)(4) of the final Rule has been clarified to read: ‘‘If so, state all material terms and conditions of the refund or cancellation policy in an attachment to the disclosure document.’’ As discussed in Section III.A.9., the final Rule includes a definition of ‘‘material’’ similar to the definition used in the TSR. Specifically, § 437.1(i) defines, in relevant part, ‘‘material’’ to mean ‘‘likely to affect a person’s choice of, or conduct regarding, goods or services.’’ Examples of material terms and conditions may include, for example, the period of time the purchaser has to cancel a purchase or request a refund; the specific steps necessary to cancel a purchase or request a refund; any fees or penalties incurred for cancellation; and where unused inventory must be returned to and by what method. The Commission declines to enumerate in the final Rule what terms are material, as materiality may vary depending on the circumstances of the opportunity and the refund or cancellation policy. e. Section 437.3(a)(5): References (1) Background The interim Business Opportunity Rule required the disclosure of prior purchasers’ name, street address, city, state, and telephone number.348 In the INPR, the Commission concluded that prospects could readily contact a prior purchaser if provided with the prior purchaser’s name, city, state, and n.166 (citing 16 CFR 310.3(a)(1)(iii) (if a seller makes a representation about a refund policy, it must disclose ‘‘a statement of all material terms and conditions of such policy’’)). 346 16 CFR 310.3(a)(1)(iii). 347 See 71 FR 19069–70. 348 72 FR 15565. PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 telephone number, and that this approach enables prospects to contact references while minimizing the intrusion into prior purchasers’ privacy.349 Accordingly, neither the IPBOR, nor the RPBOR would have required sellers of business opportunities to disclose prior purchasers’ street address to potential purchasers.350 As discussed below, the final Rule requires that sellers disclose only prior purchasers’ name, state, and telephone number. Like the IPBOR and the RPBOR, the final Rule limits the disclosure of references to those who purchased the business opportunity within the three years prior to the date of the disclosure document. Moreover, the final Rule requires the seller to disclose this information by listing each prior purchaser (if fewer than 10), or listing at least the 10 prior purchasers nearest to the prospective purchaser’s location. In order to minimize compliance costs, the final Rule also provides sellers with an alternative disclosure option—in lieu of a list of the 10 prior purchasers nearest the prospect, a seller may furnish a prospect with a national list of all purchasers.351 In the INPR, the Commission noted that this option would allow the seller to maintain a master list of purchasers that could be updated periodically, which would allow the seller to avoid having to tailor the disclosure to each prospective purchaser.352 A seller that chooses this option must insert into the reference section of the disclosure document the words ‘‘See Attached List,’’ and attach a list of the references to the disclosure document.353 Notwithstanding the fact that most of the information required by the reference disclosure is often available in the public domain, in crafting this section of the Rule, as discussed infra, the Commission considered potential privacy concerns raised by the use of prior purchaser information.354 To address these concerns, § 437.3(a)(5)(ii) requires that the disclosure document state the following language clearly and in immediate conjunction with the list of references: ‘‘If you buy a business opportunity from the seller, your 349 71 FR at 19071 n.180. FR at 19088; 73 FR at 16135. 351 See § 437.3(5)(i). 352 71 FR at 19071. In the RNPR, the Commission solicited comment on whether giving sellers the ability to provide prospective purchasers with a national list was a viable option. It received no comments responsive to that request. 353 Sellers that provide the disclosure document electronically would be permitted to attach the national list of references in electronic form as well. 354 71 FR at 19071. 350 71 E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations contact information can be disclosed in the future to other buyers.’’ (2) Privacy Concerns Raised in the Record In response to the INPR, a number of commenters, primarily from the MLM industry, expressed concern that the reference disclosure requirement raised privacy and security concerns.355 The Commission, however, was and is not persuaded that privacy concerns outweigh the benefits of this disclosure. The Commission finds that disclosure of prior purchasers is important to prevent fraud because it enables prospects to evaluate the seller’s claims based on information from an independent source with relevant experience.356 Furthermore, the required reference disclosures include no sensitive personal information whatsoever—no social security numbers, birth dates, financial account information, or even street addresses.357 Following publication of the RNPR, one commenter continued to argue that the disclosures enumerated in § 437.3(a)(5) would raise privacy and data security concerns.358 The commenter articulated three main concerns: (1) That requiring the seller to ‘‘store purchasers’ personal information in a single location or document creates a target ripe for theft and improper disclosure;’’ (2) that requiring disclosure of information of prior purchasers conflicts with the FTC’s Privacy of Consumer Information Rule (‘‘Privacy Rule’’ or ‘‘GLB Privacy Rule’’),359 promulgated under the Gramm-LeachBliley Act (‘‘GLB’’) 360 because it does not allow those prior purchasers of the business opportunity the right to opt out of having their contact information disclosed to potential purchasers;361 and (3) that the mandatory disclosure of references violates privacy obligations under the California Constitution.362 355 See 73 FR at 16126. id. 357 See id. 358 Planet Antares-RNPR at 18–21. 359 16 CFR Part 313. 360 15 U.S.C. 6801 et seq. 361 The Commission received a few comments in response to the INPR in support of allowing individual business opportunity purchasers to opt out of having their contact information disclosed. The comment submitted by the DOJ however, urged the Commission to reject any opt-out believing it would be an easy matter for sellers to talk purchasers into opting out, describing to them what a hassle it becomes for those who do not opt out because of all the demand that arises for their time and attention. The Commission agreed with DOJ and after analyzing all of the commentary to § 437.3(a)(5), declined to make any changes to that section. See 73 FR at 16126–27. 362 Planet Antares-RNPR at 20. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 356 See VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 The Commission is not persuaded by any of these contentions.363 First, the Commission rejects the argument that the disclosure of references creates an unnecessary risk of theft or improper disclosure. As an initial matter, the Commission notes that a similar reference disclosure has been required for business opportunities and business format franchises covered by the Original Franchise Rule for more than 25 years, and it is required under the interim Business Opportunity Rule as well.364 Moreover, the information to be collected and stored is not sensitive (e.g., no financial information, social security numbers, dates of birth, or street addresses). The commenter has not explained, nor does the Commission understand, why the information would be particularly attractive to thieves. Second, the Commission is not persuaded that § 437.3(a)(5) creates potential conflicts with the GLB Privacy Rule, because the protections afforded by the Privacy Rule likely do not extend to the contact information of business opportunity purchasers. Congress enacted GLB to protect personal financial information of individual consumers, but excluded from the ambit of the law the protection of information pertaining to businesses. The Privacy Rule requires that a ‘‘financial institution’’ provide, under specified circumstances, notice to its consumers and customers of its privacy policies and practices,365 including the consumers’ right to opt out of having their personal information shared with third parties.366 For purposes of the Privacy Rule, a consumer is an individual who obtains financial products or services for personal, family or household purposes.367 The Commission need not consider the limited circumstances where a business opportunity seller might be considered a financial institution, because the Privacy Rule is aimed at protecting the non-public personal financial information of consumers, not businesses.368 363 This same commenter argues that the required reference information constitutes trade secrets that should be afforded special protections, but offers no support for this contention. Id. at 14. 364 16 CFR 437.1(a)(16)(iii). 365 73 FR at 16127. 366 16 CFR 313.1(a)(3). 367 16 CFR 313.3(e). Similarly, a customer is a consumer with a continuing relationship with the financial institution. See 16 CFR 313.3(h). 368 See 16 CFR 313.1(b) (expressly stating that the Privacy Rule ‘‘does not apply to information about companies or about individuals who obtain financial products or services for business, commercial, or agricultural purposes’’). Indeed, federal law often focuses on privacy concerns affecting individuals, not businesses. See, e.g., the PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76845 The commenter argues that business opportunity operators should be considered consumers for purposes of the Privacy Rule, and thus should have the right to opt out of having their contact information disclosed to potential purchasers.369 The commenter’s interpretation is contrary to both prior Commission policy, and the plain meaning of the language of the Privacy Rule. As the Commission has previously stated, by investing in a business opportunity, purchasers are entering the world of commerce and embarking upon the establishment of a business.370 Financing a business venture is not ‘‘primarily for personal, family, or household purposes.’’ 371 This interpretation is consistent with previous Commission guidance in an analogous situation,372 and with the Commission’s interpretation of ‘‘consumer’’ in the context of other rules it enforces.373 Similarly, the reference disclosure is not in conflict with the California Constitution. A cause of action for invasion of privacy under the California Constitution exists only when a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy, which cannot exist if the person has been expressly informed that his or her contact information will be shared with prospective purchasers.374 Fair Credit Reporting Act (‘‘FCRA’’) 15 U.S.C. 1681(a)(4) (requiring various protections for consumer information, including provisions addressing identity theft). There is no comparable statute that protects business information. 369 The commenter argues that the purchase of a business opportunity might be intended to ‘‘provide a revenue stream’’ to a purchaser and ‘‘not necessarily a source of employment.’’ Planet Antares-RNPR at 18–21. The Commission finds this distinction immaterial to the analysis. 370 73 FR at 16127 & n.210. 371 The Commission has not issued guidance about the meaning of ‘‘personal, family, or household purposes’’ because the plain meaning of the language seems abundantly clear. Courts’ interpretations of this phrase when used in other consumer protection laws are instructive. See, e.g., In re Runski, 102 F.3d 744, 747 (4th Cir. 1996) (noting in the bankruptcy context that courts have uniformly concluded that debt incurred for a business venture or with a profit motive does not fall into the category of debt incurred for ‘‘personal, family, or household purposes’’). 372 See ‘‘Frequently Asked Questions for the Privacy Regulation,’’ Question B–2 (Dec. 2001), https://www.ftc.gov/privacy/glbact/glb-faq.htm (Privacy Rule does not apply when a financial institution makes a business loan to a sole proprietor; although an individual, a sole proprietor is not a ‘‘consumer’’ for purposes of the Privacy Rule where the financing is not for personal, family, or household purposes). 373 See, e.g., Preservation of Consumer’s Claims and Defenses, 16 CFR 433.1(b); Credit Practices, 16 CFR 444.1(d). 374 When personal information has been released without consent, a cause of action for invasion of privacy exists under the California Constitution only if: (1) the individual had a reasonable E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM Continued 08DER2 76846 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 Privacy concerns relating to the reference disclosure were also articulated at the June 1, 2009 workshop. A panelist representing a large MLM company stated that at least some of its representatives expressed concern that under the proposed Rule, their addresses and home telephone numbers could be provided to persons they did not know. The panelist noted that representatives often use their home telephone number as their business number, and that the same telephone number is also used by other family members, including children. The panelist wondered if additional safeguards to protect purchasers’ privacy could be taken and suggested requiring potential purchasers to contact a seller’s references through a centralized telephone number to be administered by the seller.375 The DOJ panelist opposed this suggestion, arguing that communications with prior purchasers could be subject to manipulation by the seller.376 The Commission does not believe that requiring sellers to provide and administer a centralized phone number to screen references is necessary or advisable. The Commission agrees with DOJ’s comment that such a system may invite manipulation. It would also create an unjustified financial and administrative burden for sellers. As noted above, the Commission does not view the disclosure of a purchaser’s name, state, and telephone number as creating privacy or security concerns, as this information is often available in the public domain. The required disclosure does not include street address information, and therefore, does not provide a ‘‘road map’’ to a purchaser’s residence, as the commenter suggests. Moreover, potential purchasers are notified in writing, prior to the time of purchase that their reference information will be available to expectation that the information would be kept private, and (2) disclosure of the information is serious in nature, scope, and or potential impact to cause an ‘‘egregious breach of social norms.’’ See Pioneer Elecs., Inc. v. Olmstead, 40 Cal. 4th 360, 370–71 (2007). Even when these criteria are met, the individual’s privacy interest must be weighed against legitimate and important competing interests. Id. When measured against this standard, disclosure of purchaser information pursuant to proposed § 437.3(a)(5) would not give rise to a privacy action. First, the disclosure document plainly notifies potential purchasers that their reference information will be provided to subsequent purchasers, thus they have no reasonable expectation that their information will be kept private. Second, the reference disclosure includes no sensitive personal information whatsoever, and the value to potential purchasers of information about prior purchasers outweighs any potential detriment to those prior purchasers. 375 Morrissey, June 09 Tr at 87. 376 Jost, June 09 Tr at 88. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 subsequent purchasers. Purchasers who have privacy concerns, therefore, can take steps to minimize personal exposure, such as, for example, designating a separate phone number for business purposes. Nonetheless, the Staff Report noted that the disclosure of information some may consider private must be weighed against the benefits of providing that information to potential purchasers. After considering the purpose of providing reference information, the Staff Report concluded that the disclosure of the city where the reference is located is not necessary. The staff recommended, therefore, that the city where previous purchasers reside be eliminated from § 437.3(a)(5)(i), and correspondingly, from the ‘‘References’’ section of the disclosure document. No comments in response to the Staff Report addressed this recommended modification. The Commission agrees with the staff’s recommendation. Accordingly, both § 437.3(a)(5)(i) of the final Rule and the related section of the disclosure document have been revised to eliminate references to the city where prior purchasers reside. The Commission reiterates, however, that this amendment is intended to alleviate privacy concerns, and it does not relieve a seller of its obligation to provide a list of the ten purchasers within the past three years that are nearest to the potential purchaser as an alternative to providing the full list of all prior purchasers. f. Section 437.3(a)(6): Receipt Section 437.3(a)(6) sets forth a receipt requirement for the disclosure document. This requirement is designed to document proper disclosure by the seller. Specifically, the seller must attach a duplicate copy of the disclosure document, which is to be signed and dated by the purchaser. A designation for the signature and date is included at the bottom of the disclosure document.377 The Commission believes that the receipt requirement is especially important to prove proper disclosure with respect to electronic 377 As noted previously, the Commission engaged a consultant with expertise in document design and comprehension to evaluate the initial proposed disclosure document. One of the changes suggested by the consultant included adding a note below the signature line of the disclosure document stating that the FTC requires that all business opportunity sellers give the prospective purchaser at least seven calendar days before asking him or her to sign a purchase contract. A copy of the revised proposed disclosure document, which incorporated this change, was attached as Appendix A to the Federal Register Notice announcing the June 1, 2009 workshop. See 74 FR at 18715. PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 documents. A seller furnishing disclosures online, either through email or access to a Web site, has the burden of establishing that the prospect was actually able to access the electronic document.378 Completion and submission of the receipt serves that purpose. The final Rule does not impose any particular method of transmitting the receipt. In order to minimize compliance costs, sellers should have flexibility to determine the best method to comply with this provision of the Rule.379 Accordingly, § 437.3(a)(6) would permit the seller to inform the prospective purchaser how to return the signed receipts, for example, by sending the receipt to a street address, to an email address, or by facsimile. As noted above, the Staff Report recommended adding a new definition of ‘‘signature’’ or ‘‘signed’’ to make clear that the term ‘‘signature’’ or ‘‘signed’’ includes not only a person’s handwritten signature, but also an electronic or digital form of signature to the extent that such signature is recognized as a valid signature under applicable federal law or state contract law.380 The receipt requirement received one comment. The commenter noted that the requirement that a purchaser be provided with a second copy of the disclosure document appears inconsistent with the Rule’s recognition that the disclosure document can be provided to potential purchasers through electronic media.381 The Commission disagrees with the commenter. Some sellers may post their disclosure document on their Web sites, and update it as needed. The requirement to provide a copy of the electronic disclosure ensures that the prospective purchaser will retain the document in a static format. This can be accomplished as easily through electronic means as it can through paper. In fact, allowing electronic distribution should greatly reduce sellers’ compliance costs over the long run, especially costs associated with printing and distributing disclosure documents. Nevertheless, the final Rule enables sellers to determine for themselves whether it is most efficient and cost-effective to provide the disclosure document to prospective purchasers electronically or in printed form. Accordingly, the Commission adopts the receipt provision as recommended in the Staff Report, with one non-substantive modification: the reference to a ‘‘disclosure page’’ has 378 71 FR at 19072. 379 Id. 380 See § 437.1(r). 381 Quixtar-INPR E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 at 27. Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations been changed to ‘‘disclosure document’’ to conform it to the title of § 437.3. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 3. Section 437.3(b): Updating the Disclosure Document To ensure that a seller’s disclosures are current, § 437.3(b) requires sellers to update their disclosures at least quarterly. Modeled on the Original Franchise Rule and interim Business Opportunity Rule,382 the provision states that it would be a violation of the Rule and Section 5 of the FTC Act for a seller to fail to update the disclosures to reflect any material changes in the information presented in the basic disclosure document on at least a quarterly basis. The Commission has concluded that quarterly updating strikes the right balance between the need for accurate disclosure and the costs and burdens more frequent updating would entail.383 Section 437.3(b) includes a proviso that would require more frequent updating in one respect: the list of references. Specifically, a seller is required to update the list of references monthly until such time that it is able to include the full list of 10 references. This is particularly necessary for startup opportunities that may have few or no prior references when they commence business opportunity sales. The Commission has concluded that prospective purchasers’ ability to contact at least 10 references in their due diligence investigations of business opportunity offers outweighs any costs of more frequent updating until the list of 10 is compiled.384 No comments were directed to the requirement of updating the disclosures, and the final Rule contains § 437.3(b) as recommended in the Staff Report. D. Section 437.4: Earnings Claims Section 437.4 of the final Rule addresses earnings claims, and is similar to the parallel sections of the Amended Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule.385 Like both of those rules, the final Rule requires disclosure of earnings information only if a business opportunity seller chooses to make a claim about potential earnings to prospective purchasers. Like the analogous provisions of the Amended Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule, § 437.4(a) requires a seller making an earnings claim to: (1) Have a reasonable 382 16 CFR 436.7(b) and interim Business Opportunity Rule § 437.1(a)(22). 383 71 FR at 19072. 384 Id. 385 See 16 CFR 436.9 and interim Business Opportunity Rule §§ 437.1(b), (c) and (e). VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 basis for the claim at the time the claim is made; (2) have in its possession written materials that substantiate the claim at the time the claim is made; (3) make the written material available to the prospect and the Commission upon request; and (4) furnish the prospect with an earnings claim statement. Section 437.4(b) sets forth disclosure and other requirements for sellers making earnings claims in the general media. In § 437.4(c), the final Rule addresses the use of industry financial statistics or data to suggest or imply a likely level of earnings. Finally, § 437.4(d) requires that sellers notify prospects in writing of any changes in earnings information before the prospect enters into a contract or provides any consideration to the seller, directly or indirectly through a third party.386 Each of these requirements is discussed in the following sections. 1. Section 437.4(a)(1)–(3): Substantiation for Earnings Claims As noted throughout this proceeding, the making of false or unsubstantiated earnings claims is the most prevalent problem in the offering of business opportunities. To address this problem, § 437.4(a)(1) of the final Rule permits sellers to make an earnings claim provided there is a reasonable basis for the claim at the time the claim is made.387 Further, § 437.4(a)(2) requires sellers that make earnings claims to have in their possession written substantiation for their earnings claims, and § 437.4(a)(3) requires sellers to make that written substantiation available to the prospective purchaser, or to the Commission, upon request. Requiring that a prospective purchaser can obtain and review, or have his or her own advisor review, substantiation for earnings claims increases the likelihood that sellers will make claims only for which they have a reasonable basis. 2. Section 437.4(a)(4): Earnings Claim Statement Section 437.4(a)(4) prescribes the content of the earnings claim statement, which must be provided to a prospect if a seller elects to make a representation about potential earnings. To ensure ease of review, each earnings claim statement 386 The Amended Franchise Rule contains similar requirements. See 16 CFR 436.1(d)(2) and 436.1(e)(6) (each prospective franchisee to whom the representation is made shall be notified of any material change in the information contained in the earnings claims document). 387 As discussed in the INPR, the Commission did not propose a ‘‘geographic relevance’’ requirement because that prerequisite is subsumed in the ‘‘reasonable basis’’ requirement. See 71 FR at 19072 n.185. PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76847 must be a single written document. The document must be titled ‘‘EARNINGS CLAIM STATEMENT REQUIRED BY LAW’’ in capital, bold type letters. This ensures that the prospective purchaser can readily determine from the face of the document the importance of its text. The title is followed by the name of the person making the claim, and the date of the claim. After the title and identifying information, the Rule requires the seller to state the specific earnings claim or claims. The final Rule does not specify any particular format or formula for an earnings claim. This is intended to allow flexibility in presenting earnings information in the manner that is appropriate for each opportunity, provided that any such claim has a reasonable basis and that there is written substantiation for the claim at the time it is made.388 The final Rule also requires a seller making an earnings claim to disclose the beginning and ending dates when the represented earnings were achieved.389 This information is material because a prospective purchaser cannot begin to evaluate an earnings representation without knowing how recently the supporting data was collected. For example, a seller may have conducted a survey of purchasers of its business opportunity in 2009. The Rule would not necessarily prohibit the use of that survey information in 2010, but the prospect should be made aware of the applicable time period in order to assess the relevance of the claim to current market conditions. Similarly, a prospect may reasonably give greater weight to a survey of purchasers over an extended period of time (for example, over a three-year period), than a more limited survey (for example, over a three-month period).390 Further, this section of the Rule requires the disclosure of the number and percentage of all purchasers who purchased the business opportunity prior to the end of the represented time period who have achieved at least the claimed earnings during that period. This information is material because it enables the prospect to determine whether the claimed earnings of prior purchasers are typical.391 For example, a seller may claim that purchasers have average earnings of $50,000 a year. Even if true, this statement may not reflect the experience of the typical purchaser because a few purchasers with unusually high earnings could skew the average. Thus, the number and 388 71 FR at 19072. 437.4(a)(4)(iv). 390 71 FR at 19072. 391 Id. 389 Section E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 76848 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations percentage of purchasers earning $50,000 a year might actually be very low.392 In addition, this section of the final Rule requires a seller making an earnings claim to disclose any characteristics that distinguish purchasers who achieved at least the represented level of earnings from those characteristics of the prospective purchasers.393 For example, a survey of ice cream vending route purchasers operating only in the South may not be readily applicable to other regions, such as the North. Similarly, a survey limited to large urban areas may not be applicable to smaller, rural areas. Distinguishing characteristics of purchasers who achieved a represented level of earnings is material information because it enables a prospect to assess the relevance of an earnings claim to his or her particular market.394 Finally, the Rule requires a seller making an earnings claim to disclose to the prospective purchaser that written substantiation for the claim will be made available upon request.395 As noted above, requiring that a prospective purchaser can obtain and review, or have his or her own advisor review, substantiation for earnings claims increases the likelihood that sellers will make claims only for which they have a reasonable basis.396 This requirement balances the prospective purchaser’s need for material information with the necessity of minimizing the seller’s compliance costs. Thus, a seller need only provide such substantiation upon request. In the RNPR, the Commission solicited comment on various aspects of the earnings claim statement including: (1) Whether the requirement that sellers disclose the number and percentage of prior purchasers that achieved at least the stated level of earnings would create difficulties for sellers, or whether there were alternative approaches that could limit any such difficulties; and (2) whether the requirement that sellers disclose any materially different characteristics of prior purchasers that attained at least the stated level of earnings adequately covered the relevant earnings information that should be disclosed.397 No comments were received in response to the Commission’s specific questions, nor were any comments directed to this provision. The Staff Report recommended that § 437.4(a) be adopted in the form proposed in the RPBOR, but sought additional comment on §§ 437.4(a)(4)(iv) and (v), which require any business opportunity seller that makes an earnings claim to identify the beginning and ending dates of the time period when those earnings were achieved (§ 437.4(a)(4)(iv)) and the number and percentage of all purchasers who purchased the opportunity before the ending date and who achieved those earnings in that time period (§ 437.4(a)(4)(v)).398 Section 437.4(a)(4)(v) specifies that in calculating the number and percentage of purchasers who attained at least the represented level of earnings, the business opportunity seller must include all purchasers who purchased the opportunity prior to the ending date of the time period on which the representation is based. The Staff Report solicited comment on whether the results of such a calculation, which would include the experience of those who purchased the business opportunity toward the end of the stated time period, present consumers with a realistic picture of their likely earnings with the business opportunity. In addition, the Staff Report sought comment on whether this calculation would present prospective purchasers with information that would be useful in making an informed purchasing decision, and questioned whether there were alternative approaches that might be more useful. Only one comment received in response to the Staff Report addressed these provisions. Specifically, DOJ agreed that any substantiation for earnings must be calculated using the number of all purchasers of the opportunity prior to the ending date of the time period for which the earnings representation is based, noting that: In reality, many business opportunities begin and end in a short period of time, constantly reinventing themselves to avoid association with previous failures. Requiring inclusion of all purchasers who purchased before the ending date in any statistics in an earning claims document is necessary to force the seller to have the document be at all representative of the business as a whole. Any wiggle room in this regard will be exploited to create a document based on nonrepresentative sellers.399 The Commission agrees and the final Rule includes § 437.4(a)(4) as recommended in the Staff Report. 392 Id. 393 Section 437.4(a)(4)(vi). FR at 17073. 395 Section 437.4(a)(4)(vii). 396 See, e.g., 16 CFR 436.1(b)(2); 436.1(c)(2). 397 73 FR at 16133. 394 71 VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 398 Section 437.4(b)(3) requires similar disclosures, calculated in the same way, in conjunction with any earnings claim made in the general media. 399 DOJ–Staff PO 00000 Frm 00034 Report at 2. Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 3. Section 437.4(b): Earnings Claims in the General Media Section 437.4(b) addresses the making of earnings claims in the general media, such as on television, radio, the Internet, in newspapers, etc. Specifically, a seller can make an earnings claim in the general media provided the seller: (1) Has a reasonable basis for the claim at the time the claim is made; (2) has written material that substantiates the claim at the time the claim is made; and (3) states in immediate conjunction with the claim the beginning and ending date when the represented earnings were achieved and the number and percentage of those who have achieved the represented earnings in the given time period. These requirements are necessary to prevent deceptive and misleading earnings representations in advertisements, as well as to enable a prospect to assess the typicality of any advertised earnings claim.400 The Commission received no comments about this provision. Based on the record as a whole and its enforcement experience, the Commission concludes that the requirements of § 437.4(b) are necessary to prevent misleading earnings representations, and the final Rule includes this provision as recommended in the Staff Report. 4. Section 437.4(c): Dissemination of Industry, Financial, Earnings, or Performance Information Section 437.4(c) is intended to address a prevalent practice among business opportunity sellers—the use of real or purported industry statistics in the marketing of business opportunity ventures. The Commission’s law enforcement experience reveals that it is common for vending machine business opportunity promoters, for example, to tout what are purported to be industrywide vending sales statistics. A matrix of potential earnings based upon an industry-average sliding scale of ‘‘vends per day’’ is typical.401 The use of such industry statistics in the promotion of a business opportunity creates the impression that the level of sales or earnings is typical in the industry, and 400 E.g., FTC v. Inspired Ventures, Inc., No. 02– 21760–CIV–Jordan (S.D. Fla. 2002); FTC v. MegaKing, Inc., No. 00–00513–CIV–Lenard (S.D. Fla. 2000). 401 E.g., FTC v. Tashman, 318 F.3d 1275 (11th Cir. 2003); FTC v. Nat’l Vending Consultants, Inc., No. CV–S–05–0160–RCJ–PAL (D. Nev. 2005); FTC v. Inspired Ventures, Inc., No. 02–21760–CIV–Jordan (S.D. Fla. 2002); FTC v. Inv. Dev. Inc., No. 89–0642 (E.D. La. 1989). E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations implies that the prospective purchaser will achieve similar results.402 To prevent deceptive use of such earnings claims, § 437.4(c), as proposed in the RNPR, prohibited the use of industry financial, earnings, or performance information ‘‘unless the seller has written substantiation demonstrating that the information reflects the typical or ordinary financial, earnings, or performance experience of purchasers of the business opportunity being offered for sale.’’ 403 In response to the RNPR, one commenter noted that this provision would prohibit sellers from using industry statistics in ways that could assist potential purchasers in making informed decisions.404 For example, hypothetically, the performance experience of prior purchasers of a business opportunity might contrast favorably against the industry average and, if so, that information might help a prospective purchaser assess the value of the investment against other proposed businesses. The Staff Report noted that there may be a limited number of situations in which providing industry statistics may be beneficial to potential purchasers, but expressed concern that industry statistics can be, and have been, used to imply to potential purchasers that their likely earnings with the promoted business opportunity will match the industry averages.405 The Staff Report recommended a small change to Section 437.4(c) to state that it is an unfair or deceptive practice to ‘‘disseminate industry financial, earnings, or performance information unless the seller has written substantiation demonstrating that such information reflects, or does not exceed, the typical or ordinary financial, earnings, or performance experience of purchasers of the business opportunity being offered for sale.’’ The Commission received no comments on this provision. The Commission concludes that the recommended change is warranted. Section 437.4(c) of the final Rule thus includes the staff’s recommended language. Accordingly, under the final Rule, a seller can use industry information only if it is able to measure the performance of existing purchasers of that seller’s offered business opportunity and document that those existing purchasers’ typical performance equals or exceeds the average performance of purchasers of other FR at 19073. FR at 16135. 404 Planet Antares-RNPR at 25. 405 Staff Report at 99. business opportunities available in the industry. A start-up business opportunity with no or very limited prior sales, therefore, probably would not be able to use industry statistics because it would lack a sufficient basis to demonstrate that the industry statistics reflect the typical or ordinary experience of the start-up’s prior purchasers. 5. Section 437.4(d): Material Changes in Earnings Claim Statement Section 437.4(d) addresses postdisclosure changes in earnings information. It prohibits any seller making an earnings claim from failing to notify the prospective purchaser, before the prospect enters into a contract or pays any consideration, of any material change that has occurred and that calls into question the relevance or reliability of the information contained in its earnings claim statement. For example, ‘‘[s]uch material changes include the issuance of a new survey or other facts that would lead the seller to conclude that a prior survey is no longer valid.’’ 406 In crafting § 437.4(d), the Commission was cognizant of the high degree of materiality of earnings information for prospective purchasers, but attempted to minimize compliance costs during the time before the prospective purchaser enters into a contract or pays any consideration.407 In the RNPR, the Commission explained that ‘‘[t]he proposal would not require a seller, for example, to prepare a revised earnings claim statement immediately, but would simply require written notification of the change.’’ 408 No comments in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report were directed at this provision. The Commission finds that § 437.4(d) strikes the right balance between accurate disclosure to prevent deception and the compliance costs that would result from a more frequent than quarterly updating requirement of the full earnings claim document. The final Rule includes this provision as recommended in the Staff Report. E. Section 437.5: Sales Conducted in Spanish or Other Languages Besides English On its own initiative, the staff recommended in the Staff Report adding a provision that would require sellers to provide the disclosure document and the disclosures required by the Rule to potential purchasers in the same language that the seller uses to market the business opportunity. This 402 71 403 73 VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 406 Id. at 100. 407 Id. 408 71 Jkt 226001 PO 00000 FR at 19073. Frm 00035 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76849 recommendation was based, in part, on a long-standing Commission enforcement policy, which advises that where a Commission order, rule, or guide requires the clear and conspicuous disclosure of certain information in an advertisement or sales material appearing in a non-English language publication, the disclosures should be made in the predominant language of the publication in which the advertisement or sales material appears.409 This policy is the result of the Commission’s recognition that ‘‘with increasing intensity, advertisers are making special efforts to reach foreign language-speaking consumers.’’ 410 Under the policy, failure to provide the required disclosures either in the predominant language of the publication or of the target audience could result in a civil penalty or other law enforcement proceeding for violating the terms of any applicable Commission order or rule.411 The staff’s recommendation to address foreign-language sales also is based on its belief that when a business opportunity seller purposefully reaches out to a particular population by marketing in the foreign language spoken by members of that community, all of the disclosures required by the Rule should be accessible and comprehensible to each of those potential purchasers.412 Accordingly, the Staff Report recommended that business opportunity sellers be required to provide the disclosure document to potential purchasers in the language the seller uses to conduct the offer for sale, sale, or promotion of the business opportunity. The Staff Report sought public comment about whether this requirement adequately promotes the Commission’s goal of ensuring that potential purchasers be provided with information necessary to make an informed purchasing decision. It also solicited comment on what alternatives, if any, the Commission should consider, and the costs and benefits of each alternative. In response to the Staff Report, the Commission received one comment addressing the disclosure requirements for foreign-language sales. Specifically, DOJ agreed with the staff’s 409 FTC Enforcement Policy Statement Concerning Clear and Conspicuous Disclosures in Foreign Language Advertising and Sales Materials, 16 CFR 14.9(a). In the case of any other advertisement or sales material, the Commission policy states that the disclosures should appear in the language of the target audience. 410 Id. 411 Id. 412 Staff Report at 101. E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 76850 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations recommendation that the required disclosures should be made in the same language as the sale, noting that the disclosures should be ‘‘as comprehensible to would-be buyers as is the [seller’s] sales pitch.’’ 413 After consideration of the record, the Commission’s long-standing policy, and the rationale behind the staff’s recommendation, the Commission agrees that an English disclosure document for business opportunities marketed in Spanish and other foreign languages may have little utility for the targeted prospects. Accordingly, the final Rule contains disclosure requirements for sales conducted in Spanish or other languages besides English. Because the Commission’s law enforcement history demonstrates that fraudulent business opportunities have specifically targeted Spanish-speaking communities,414 the Staff Report recommended that the Rule contain a Spanish translation of the basic disclosure document as Appendix B. In the Staff Report, the staff solicited comment on whether the Spanish translation of the disclosure document was adequate to convey to Spanishspeaking potential purchasers the meaning of the required disclosures, or whether different word choices would make the disclosures more meaningful. No comments addressed these issues. Based on its law enforcement experience with business opportunity sellers specifically targeting Spanishspeaking consumers, the Commission agrees that a Spanish translation of the disclosure document is appropriate. Accordingly, a Spanish version of the disclosure document is included as Appendix B to the final Rule. Although business opportunities may be marketed in dozens of languages besides English and Spanish, the Commission’s law enforcement experience does not suggest that there are other particular languages in which business opportunity sales are conducted. Moreover, the record is silent as to whether translations into other languages are necessary. Therefore, the Commission has determined not to provide translations of the disclosure document into other languages. Under § 437.5(b), should a business opportunity seller use a language other than English or Spanish, the seller would be responsible for 413 DOJ-Staff Report at 2. supra note 99 and accompanying text. DOJ also commented that in its experience, business opportunities have been pitched to the Spanish community. See DOJ-Staff Report at 2. 414 See VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 obtaining an accurate translation of the disclosure document. The Commission adopts the language proposed in the Staff Report, with one slight modification. Namely, § 437.5 of the final Rule makes clear that all earnings disclosures required by § 437.4—rather than those identified only in § 437.4(a)—must be made in the language in which the business opportunity sales are conducted. Section 437.5 of the final Rule, entitled ‘‘Sales conducted in Spanish and other languages besides English’’ requires: (a) If the seller conducts the offer for sale, sale, or promotion of a business opportunity in Spanish, the seller must provide the disclosure document required by § 437.3(a) in the form and language set forth in Appendix B to this part, and the disclosures required by §§ 437.3(a) and 437.4 must be made in Spanish; and (b) If the seller conducts the offer for sale, sale, or promotion of a business opportunity in a language other than English or Spanish, the seller must provide the disclosure document required by § 437.3(a) using the form and an accurate translation of the language set forth in Appendix A to this part, and the disclosures required by §§ 437.3(a) and 437.4 must be made in that language. Section 437.3(a) has been revised to conform with this requirement.415 F. Section 437.6: Other Prohibited Practices Section 437.6 of the final Rule prohibits sellers from engaging in a number of deceptive practices, whether directly or through a third party, that are common in the sale of fraudulent business opportunity ventures. Violation of any provision of this section would be a violation of the Rule and an unfair or deceptive act or practice in violation of Section 5 of the FTC Act. Each of these prohibitions is discussed below. 1. Section 437.6(a): Disclaiming Any Required Disclosure Section 437.6(a) prohibits a business opportunity seller from disclaiming, or 415 Section 437.3 of the final Rule makes it an unfair or deceptive act or practice for any seller to fail to disclose to a prospective purchaser material information required by §§ 437.3 and 437.4 in a single written document in the form and using the language set forth in Appendix A to the Rule; or if the offer for sale, sale, or promotion of a business opportunity is conducted in Spanish, in the form and using the language set forth in Appendix B to the Rule; or if the offer for sale, sale, or promotion of a business opportunity is conducted in a language other than English or Spanish, using the form and an accurate translation of the language set forth in Appendix A to the Rule. PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 requiring ‘‘a prospective purchaser to waive reliance on, any statement made in any document or attachment that is required or permitted to be disclosed under this Rule.’’ 416 The purpose of this provision is to preserve the reliability and integrity of pre-sale disclosures. Otherwise, the Rule’s very purpose would be undermined by signaling to prospects that they cannot trust or rely on the Rule’s mandated disclosures.417 No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report were directed to this provision, and the final Rule includes § 437.6(a) as recommended in the Staff Report. 2. Section 437.6(b): Making Inconsistent or Contradictory Claims Section 437.6(b) prohibits sellers from making any representation, whether orally, visually, or in writing, that is inconsistent with or that contradicts any statement made in the basic disclosure document or in any earnings claim disclosures required by the Rule.418 Without this prohibition, a seller, for example, would be free to show a prospect a graph with earnings information, even though the seller’s disclosure document states that it does not make an earnings claim.419 The Commission’s law enforcement experience shows that this is a prevalent problem.420 This provision, like the anti-disclaimer provision, is necessary to preserve the reliability and integrity of the required disclosures. No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report were directed to this provision, and the final Rule includes § 437.6(b) as recommended in the Staff Report. 3. Section 437.6(c): Including Extraneous Materials in Disclosure Document Section 437.6(c) prohibits the inclusion of any additional information in the disclosure document that is not explicitly required or permitted by the Rule. This prohibition is intended to preserve the clarity, coherence, readability, and utility of the disclosures by ensuring that the seller does not 416 This provision is parallel to the antidisclaimer prohibition in the Amended Franchise Rule. See 16 CFR 436.9(h). 417 71 FR at 19073. 418 This provision is similar to the Amended Franchise Rule’s prohibition against making statements that contradict any required disclosure. See 16 CFR 436.9(a). 419 71 FR at 19074. 420 E.g., FTC v. Am. Entm’t Distribs., Inc., No. 04– 22431–CIV–Martinez (S.D. Fla. 2004); FTC v. Inspired Ventures, Inc., No. 02–21760–CIV–Jordan (S.D. Fla. 2002); FTC v. Mortgage Serv. Assocs., Inc., No. 395–CV–1362 (AVC) (D. Conn. 1995); FTC v. Tower Cleaning Sys., Inc., No. 965844 (E.D. Pa. 1996). E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations clutter the disclosure document with extraneous materials that may overwhelm purchasers, distracting them from the required disclosures.421 To facilitate a prospective purchaser’s ability to maneuver through an electronic version of the disclosure document, this provision expressly permits the use of common navigational tools, such as scroll bars and internal links that facilitate review of an electronic document. The provision prohibits, however, other electronic features—such as audio, video, animation, or pop-up screens—that may distract attention from the core disclosures.422 The prohibition on including extraneous materials extends to information required or permitted by state law. One important goal of revising and tailoring the disclosure requirements for business opportunity sellers is to simplify and streamline the disclosures into a single-page document. Accordingly, the Commission has concluded that allowing business opportunity sellers to mix federal and state disclosures into one document would be an invitation to sellers to present lengthy and confusing information to prospective purchasers.423 Such a result would be contrary to the Commission’s goal of providing a simple, clear, and concise disclosure document. State laws offering equal or greater protections are not preempted by the final Rule. The final Rule only prohibits any sellers from providing any disclosures required under state law together with the disclosures required under the final Rule. No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report were directed to this provision, and the final Rule includes § 437.6(c) as recommended in the Staff Report. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 4. Section 437.6(d): Making False Earnings Claims As previously noted, the making of deceptive earnings claims is the most prevalent problem in the offer and sale of business opportunities. Accordingly, § 437.6(d) prohibits sellers from misrepresenting the amount of sales, or gross or net income or profits a prospective purchaser may earn or that 421 Indeed, in response to the INPR, DOJ urged the Commission to exclude state disclosures from the proposed form. In DOJ’s experience, ‘‘[p]urveyors of fraudulent business opportunities will seek every opportunity to water down this document with extraneous information to hide any negative information it may contain.’’ 73 FR at 16128. The Commission’s experience supports DOJ’s conclusions. 422 This is the same approach used in the Amended Franchise Rule. See 16 CFR 436.6(d). 423 See 73 FR at 16128. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 prior purchasers have earned. This prohibition complements the final Rule’s earnings substantiation requirements in § 437.4. Thus, both unsubstantiated and false earnings claims are prohibited by the Rule. No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report addressed this provision, and the final Rule includes § 437.6(d) as recommended in the Staff Report. 5. Section 437.6(e): Misrepresentations Regarding the Law as to Earnings Claims and the Identity of Other Business Opportunity Purchasers Section 437.6(e) prohibits sellers from stating that any law or regulation prohibits seller from furnishing earnings information. This provision is intended to address a recurring problem identified in the rulemaking record— that sellers often misrepresent that federal law or the FTC prohibits the making of earnings claims.424 In effect, prohibiting these types of misrepresentations ensures that prospective purchasers are not misled into believing that earnings information is unavailable to them as a matter of law.425 In addition, the RPBOR added a second proposed prohibition to § 437.6(e) that would prevent sellers from misrepresenting that any law or regulation prohibits a seller from disclosing to prospective purchasers the identity of other purchasers of the business opportunity. The Commission proposed this change in response to a request from DOJ, which noted that in its experience, fraudulent business opportunity sellers frequently deflect potential purchasers’ requests for the contact information of current distributors by falsely claiming that the law forbids disclosing those identities.426 The Commission is convinced that the prohibition is appropriate because it will help 424 In the Amended Franchise Rule, the Commission addressed this problem in the context of sales of business format franchises through a new requirement that franchise sellers include a specific preamble in the financial performance section of their disclosures. Among other things, the preamble makes clear that franchisors can make financial performance information available, assuming they have a reasonable basis for their claims. See 16 CFR 436.5(s)(1). Although the same problem exists in the sale of business opportunities, the Commission, in an effort to streamline the business opportunity disclosure document and reduce compliance costs, proposed this different approach for the Business Opportunity Rule, believing it sufficient to address deceptive business opportunity sales. The Commission noted that ‘‘whereas the Franchise Rule seeks to encourage franchisors to make earnings claims, no such encouragement is needed in the business opportunity field, where such claims are all too common.’’ 71 FR at 19075 n.211. 425 71 FR at 19075. 426 73 FR at 16127. PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76851 consumers understand that if the seller supplies no references, it is because none exist, or because the seller chooses not to make such information available in contravention of the Rule.427 No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report addressed this provision, and the final Rule contains § 437.6(e) as recommended in the Staff Report. 6. Section 437.6(f): Failing To Provide Written Substantiation for Earnings Claims Section 437.6(f) prohibits a seller who makes an earnings claim from failing to provide written substantiation to prospective purchasers, and to the Commission, upon request.428 Rather than mandating that business opportunity sellers routinely include documentation for earnings claims— which could be voluminous—in the earnings claim statement itself, the final Rule’s requirement is intended to reduce compliance costs by requiring only that such materials be provided when requested. Purchasers could then review the documentation if they so choose. Therefore, although substantiation for earnings claims must exist, in writing, at the time any such claims are made, that substantiation need be provided to potential purchasers (or to the Commission) only upon request. No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report addressed this provision, and the final Rule contains § 437.6(f) as recommended in the Staff Report. 7. Section 437.6(g): Misrepresenting Commissions or Other Payments From the Seller Section 437.6(g) prohibits sellers from misrepresenting how or when commissions, bonuses, incentives, premiums, or other payments from the seller to the purchaser will be calculated or distributed. The Commission’s law enforcement experience shows that these kinds of misrepresentations underlie deceptive work-at-home opportunities, where prospective purchasers rely on the seller as the source of income, or where the seller manages the system’s cash flow.429 The 427 Id. 428 The Amended Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule have similar requirements. See 16 CFR 436.5(r)(3)(v); 437.1(b)(2); and 437.1(c)(2). 429 E.g., FTC v. Indep. Mktg. Exch., Inc., No. 10– CV–00568–NLH–KMW (D.N.J. 2010); FTC v. Preferred Platinum Servs. Network, Inc., No.10–CV– 00538–MLC–LHG (D.N.J. 2010); FTC v. Sun Ray Traders, Inc., No. 05–20402–CIV-Seitz/Bandstra (S.D. Fla. 2005); FTC v. Castle Publ’g, No. A03CA E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM Continued 08DER2 76852 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations Commission concluded that absent this prohibition, the Rule would not address false promises about the compensation sellers will provide post-sale.430 No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report addressed this provision, and the final Rule contains § 437.6(g) as recommended in the Staff Report. 8. Section 437.6(h): Misrepresenting Costs, Performance, Efficacy or Material Characteristics of Business Opportunity A common complaint of victims of business opportunity fraud arises from misrepresentations about the costs or the performance, efficacy, nature, or central characteristics of a business opportunity offered to a prospective purchaser, or the goods or services needed to operate the business opportunity. For example, a seller may misrepresent the total costs involved in purchasing or operating a business opportunity.431 In other instances, a seller may misrepresent the quality of goods offered by the business opportunity seller, either for use in operating the business (e.g., vending machines) or for ultimate resale to consumers (e.g., novelty items).432 Section 437.6(h) makes such deception actionable as a violation of the final Rule. No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report addressed this provision, and the final Rule contains § 437.6(h) as recommended in the Staff Report. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 9. Section 437.6(i): Misrepresenting Post-Sale Assistance Section 437.6(i) prohibits business opportunity sellers from 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 10. Section 437.6(j): Misrepresenting Locations, Outlets, Accounts, or Customers Section 437.6(j) prohibits sellers from misrepresenting ‘‘the likelihood that a seller, locator, or lead generator will find locations, outlets, accounts, or customers for the purchaser.’’ Fraudulent business opportunity sellers often promise that the seller or some other third party will find locations or outlets for purchasers’ equipment, or accounts or customers for the purchasers’ services.437 Such representations include claims that a particular locator is successful in 433 71 FR at 19075 n.216. Commission has recognized that promises of assistance made to induce prospects to purchase a franchise are material, especially to those prospects with ‘‘little or no experience at running a business.’’ 43 FR at 59676–77; see, e.g., FTC v. Am. Entm’t Distribs., Inc., No. 04–22431–CIV– Martinez (S.D. Fla. 2004); FTC v. USS Elder Enter., Inc., No. SA CV–04–1039 AHS (ANx) (C.D. Cal. 2004); FTC v. Kitco of Nev., 612 F. Supp. 1282 (D. Minn. 1985); FTC v. Leading Edge Processing, Inc., No. 6:02–CV–681–ORL–19 DAB (M.D. Fla. 2003); FTC v. Darrell Richmond, No. 3:02–3972–22 (D.S.C. 2003); FTC v. Elec. Med. Billing, Inc., No. SA02–368 AHS (ANX) (C.D. Cal. 2003); FTC v. Transworld Enters., Inc., No. 00 8126–CIV–Graham (S.D. Fla. 2000); FTC v. Advanced Pub. Commc’ns Corp., No. 00–00515–CIV–Ungaro-Benages (S.D. Fla. 2000); FTC v. Hi Tech Mint Sys., Inc., No. 98 CIV 5881 (JES) (S.D.N.Y. 1998); United States v. QX Int’l, Inc., No. 398–CV–0453–D (N.D. Tex. 1998). 435 71 FR at 19075 n.218. 436 71 FR at 19075. 437 E.g., FTC v. Am. Entm’t Distribs., Inc., No. 04– 22431–CIV–Martinez (S.D. Fla. 2004); FTC v. Int’l Trader, No. CV–02–02701 AHM (JTLx) (C.D. Cal. 2002); FTC v. Elec. Processing Servs., Inc., No. CV– S–02–0500–L.H.–R.S. (D. Nev. 2002); FTC v. Home Professions, Inc., No. SACV 00–111 AHS (Eex) (C.D. Cal. 2001); FTC v. Encore Networking Servs., No. 00–1083 WJR (AIJx) (C.D. Cal. 2000); FTC v. AMP Publ’n, Inc., No. SACV–00–112–AHS–ANx (C.D. Cal. 2001); FTC v. Infinity Multimedia, Inc., No. 96– 6671–CIV–Gonzalez (S.D. Fla. 1996). 434 The 905 SS (W.D. Tex. 2003); FTC v. Trek Alliance, Inc., No. 02–9270 SJL (AJWx) (C.D. Cal. 2002); FTC v. Terrance Maurice Howard, No. SA02CA0344 (W.D. Tex. 2002); FTC v. Am.’s Shopping Network, Inc., No. 02–80540–CIV-Hurley (S.D. Fla. 2002). 430 71 FR at 19075. 431 E.g., FTC v. World Traders Ass’n, Inc., No. CV05 0591 AHM (CTx) (C.D. Cal. 2005); FTC v. Castle Publ’g, No. A03CA 905 SS (W.D. Tex. 2003); FTC v. End70 Corp., No. 3 03CV–0940N (N.D. Tex. 2003); FTC v. Darrell Richmond, No. 3:02–3972–22 (D.S.C. 2003); FTC v. Carousel of Toys USA, Inc., No. 97–8587 CIV–Ungaro-Benages (S.D. Fla. 1997); FTC v. Parade of Toys, Inc., No. 97–2367–GTV (D. Kan. 1997); FTC v. Telecomm. of Am., Inc., No. 95– 693–CIV–ORL–22 (M.D. Fla. 1995). Pre-sale disclosure of cost information is a remedial approach taken in many Commission trade regulation rules. E.g., 900 Number Rule, 16 CFR 308.3(b); TSR, 16 CFR 310.3; Funeral Rule, 16 CFR 453.2. 432 E.g., FTC v. Kitco of Nev., 612 F. Supp. 1282 (D. Minn. 1985); FTC v. Associated Record Distribs., Inc., No. 02–21754–CIV–Graham/Garber (S.D. Fla. 2002); FTC v. Home Professions, Inc., No. 00–111 (C.D. Cal. 2000); FTC v. Worldwide Mktg. & Distrib. Co., No. 95–8422–CIV–Roettger (S.D. Fla. 1995); see also FTC v. Med. Billers Network, No. 05 CV 2014 (RJH) (S.D.N.Y. 2005). VerDate Mar<15>2010 misrepresenting any material aspect of assistance it represents it will provide to purchasers.433 The Commission’s enforcement experience shows that misrepresentation of post-sale assistance offered to a prospective purchaser is an element common to many business opportunity frauds targeted in Commission cases.434 Also, consumer complaints about misrepresentations concerning the type and amount of assistance promised but not received are among the top categories of reported deceptive business opportunity practices.435 The Commission has concluded that the best way to address this deceptive practice is through a direct prohibition.436 No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report addressed this provision, and the final Rule contains § 437.6(i) as recommended in the Staff Report. PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 finding locations, as well as representations that the seller or other third party has already found and entered into contracts with location owners or customers.438 The Commission has found that these types of representations are material to a prospective purchaser, because they foster the expectation that a profitable market exists for the goods or services the purchaser will sell.439 No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report addressed this provision, and the final Rule contains § 437.6(j) as recommended in the Staff Report. 11. Section 437.6(k): Misrepresenting Cancellation or Refund Policy Section 437.6(k) prohibits a seller from misrepresenting, directly or through a third party, the terms and conditions of any cancellation or refund policy. This prohibition does not compel any seller to offer a cancellation or a refund, nor does it dictate the terms and conditions under which a seller may offer such relief. Rather, it simply ensures that any cancellation or refund offer a seller makes before the sale is truthful and accurate. The Commission’s law enforcement experience demonstrates that, in many instances, business opportunity sellers falsely claim that they permit a purchaser to cancel the purchase, guarantee a 100% refund, or promise to buy back some or all of the products sold to a purchaser.440 These representations have lured prospective purchasers into believing that the investment is either low-risk or even risk-free.441 No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report were directed to this provision, and the final Rule contains § 437.6(k) as recommended in the Staff Report. 12. Section 437.6(l): Failing To Provide a Refund or Cancellation Section 437.6(l) prohibits a seller from failing to cancel a purchase or make a refund when the purchaser has qualified for such relief under the seller’s 438 E.g., FTC v. Hart Mktg. Enters. Ltd., No. 98– 222–CIV–T–23 E (M.D. Fla. 1998); FTC v. Vendors Fin. Servs., Inc., No. 98–1832 (D. Colo. 1998); FTC v. Hi Tech Mint Sys., Inc., No. 98 CIV 5881 (S.D.N.Y. 1998); FTC v. Infinity Multimedia, Inc., No. 96–6671–CIV–Gonzalez (S.D. Fla. 1996). 439 71 FR at 19076. 440 E.g., FTC v. Med. Billers Network, No. 05 CV 2014 (RJH) (S.D.N.Y. 2005); FTC v. Castle Publ’g, No. A03CA 905 SS (W.D. Tex. 2003); FTC v. Am.’s Shopping Network, Inc., No. 02–80540–CIV–Hurley (S.D. Fla. 2002); FTC v. Home Professions, Inc., No. SACV 00–111 AHS (Eex) (C.D. Cal. 2001); FTC v. Encore Networking Servs., No. 00–1083 WJR (AIJx) (C.D. Cal. 2000). 441 71 FR at 19076. E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations cancellation or refund policy.442 As noted above, § 437.6(k) prohibits a seller from misrepresenting, pre-sale, the seller’s cancellation or refund policy. Section 437.6(l) complements that section and is intended to address sellers’ post-sale conduct, prohibiting the seller from failing to honor cancellation or refund requests when purchasers have satisfied all the terms and conditions disclosed in the seller’s disclosure document for obtaining such relief.443 In the Commission’s experience, the failure of business opportunity sellers to make promised refunds or to honor cancellation policies ranks high among issues raised by business opportunity purchasers.444 No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report were directed to this provision, and the final Rule contains § 437.6(l) as recommended in the Staff Report. 13. Section 437.6(m): Misrepresenting Business Opportunity as an Employment Opportunity mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 Section 437.6(m) prohibits business opportunity sellers from misrepresenting a business opportunity as an employment opportunity. The Commission’s law enforcement experience demonstrates that some business opportunity sellers lure unsuspecting consumers by falsely representing that they are offering employment when, in fact, they are offering vending, work-at-home, or other business opportunities. For example, in some instances consumers have responded to advertisements seeking sales executives, only to discover that the ‘‘position’’ requires them to purchase equipment or products from the seller and, in turn, to sell those products.445 The Commission concludes that this prohibition is necessary to protect consumers against false representations of employment opportunities. 442 This is consistent with the interim Business Opportunity Rule approach. See 16 CFR 437.1(h). 443 E.g., FTC v. AMP Publ’ns, Inc., No. SACV–00– 112–AHS–ANx (C.D. Cal. 2001) (failure to honor 90day money back guarantee); FTC v. Star Publ’g Group, Inc., No. 00–023 (D. Wyo. 2000) (failure to honor 90-day refund policy). 444 73 FR at 19076. 445 See, e.g., FTC v. Trek Alliance, Inc., No. 02– 9270 SJL (AJWx) (C.D. Cal. 2002) (defendants placed ads in ‘‘Help Wanted’’ sections of newspaper offering salaried position); FTC v. Leading Edge Processing, Inc., No. 6:02–CV–681–ORL–19 DAB (M.D. Fla. 2003) (defendants sent emails to job seekers who posted their resumes on job Web sites, falsely representing the availability of jobs and guaranteeing a steady stream of work); FTC v. David Martinelli, Jr., No. 3:99 CV 1272 (D. Conn. 2000) (defendants sent unsolicited emails falsely offering a $13.50 per hour position processing applications for credit, loans, or employment). VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report were directed to this provision, and the final Rule contains § 437.6(m) as recommended in the Staff Report. 14. Section 437.6(n): Misrepresenting the Exclusivity of Territories Section 437.6(n) prohibits misrepresentations about the terms of any territorial exclusivity or limited territorial protection offered to a prospective purchaser.446 In the Commission’s experience, false or misleading promises about territories are a common deceptive practice reported by business opportunity purchasers.447 The Commission has stated that representations about territorial exclusivity or more limited territorial protections are material because they often induce a prospective purchaser into believing that he or she will not be competing for customers with the seller or other purchasers, thereby increasing the purchaser’s likelihood of success.448 No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report were directed to this provision, and the final Rule contains § 437.6(n) as recommended in the Staff Report. 15. Section 437.6(o): Assigning a Purported Exclusive Territory to Another Purchaser Section 437.6(o) prohibits a seller from assigning a single ‘‘exclusive’’ territory to more than one purchaser. This prohibition complements § 437.6(n), which prohibit sellers from misrepresenting territories. It is intended to address sellers’ post-sale conduct, and prohibits the seller from failing to honor its promises regarding exclusive or protected territories. Consumer complaints indicate, and the Commission’s law enforcement experience confirms, that fraudulent business opportunity sellers often sell the same purportedly exclusive territory to several unsuspecting purchasers.449 In these circumstances, purchasers who have been lured to invest in an opportunity on the basis of promises of 446 71 FR at 19076. In some instances, a business opportunity seller may offer a prospect an exclusive territory, in which no other person has the right to compete within the territory. In other instances, a seller may offer a more limited protection. For example, the seller may prohibit other purchasers from operating in the territory, but reserve to itself the ability to conduct telemarking or Internet sales in the territory. Regardless of the scope of the territorial protection, § 437.6(n) prohibits business opportunity sellers from misrepresenting the nature of the territory. 447 Id. at 19065. 448 Id. at 19075. 449 E.g., FTC v. Am. Safe Mktg., No. 1:89–CV– 462–RLV (N.D. Ga. 1989). PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76853 an exclusive territorial lock on their market find that their chances of success are materially reduced by competition from the other purchasers. No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report were directed to this provision, and the final Rule contains § 437.6(o) as recommended in the Staff Report. 16. Section 437.6(p): Misrepresenting Third Party Endorsements or Other Affiliation Section 437.6(p) prohibits business opportunity sellers from misrepresenting that ‘‘any person, trademark or service mark holder, or governmental entity, directly or indirectly benefits from, sponsors, participates in, endorses, approves, authorizes, or is otherwise associated with the sale of the business opportunity or the goods or services sold through the business opportunity.’’ 450 The Commission’s enforcement experience indicates that business opportunity frauds often lure consumers by misrepresenting that their opportunities have been approved or endorsed by a government agency or well-known third party.451 In other instances, business opportunity sellers falsely claim that their opportunities are sponsored by or associated with a charity, or that a charity will benefit from a percentage of sales.452 The Commission has concluded that such claims are material to a purchaser because an alleged endorsement or shared-profit arrangement may create the impression that the opportunity is legitimate or that the affiliation will enhance sales and profits.453 No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report were directed to this provision, and the final Rule contains § 437.6(p) as recommended in the Staff Report. 17. Section 437.6(q): Misrepresenting References (the Use of ‘‘Shills’’) Section 437.6(q) addresses one of the most pernicious practices common in fraudulent business opportunity sales— 450 Cf. TSR, 16 CFR 310.3(a)(vii) (prohibiting misrepresentations concerning ‘‘affiliation with, or endorsement or sponsorship by, any person or government entity’’). 451 E.g., FTC v. Streamline Int’l, No. 01–6885– CIV–Ferguson (S.D. Fla. 2001) (misrepresented FDA approval); FTC v. Star Publ’g Group, Inc., No. 00– 023 (D. Wyo. 2000) (misrepresented HUD approval); FTC v. Bus. Opportunity Ctr., Inc., No. 95 8429– CIV–Zloch (S.D. Fla. 1995) (misrepresented FDA approval); see also FTC v. Hawthorne Commc’ns, No. 93–7002 AAH (JGX) (C.D. Cal. 1993) (order restricting use of testimonials and endorsements in the sale of business opportunities). 452 E.g., FTC v. Global Assistance Network for Charities, No. 96–2494 PHX RCB (D. Ariz. 1996). 453 71 FR at 19077. E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 76854 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations the use of ‘‘shill’’ references to lure unsuspecting consumers to invest in a business opportunity.454 The Commission has brought many actions against business opportunity sellers who provided prospects with the names of individuals they falsely claimed were independent prior purchasers or independent third parties, but who, in fact, were paid by the seller to give favorable false reports confirming the seller’s claims, especially their earnings claims.455 The use of paid shills to give false reports induces prospective purchasers into believing that the opportunity is a safe and lucrative investment. To address this deceptive practice, § 437.6(q) contains two related prohibitions. First, it prohibits any seller from misrepresenting that any person ‘‘has purchased a business opportunity from the seller.’’ This prevents a seller, for example, from claiming that a company employee, locator, or other third party is a prior purchaser of the opportunity, when that is not the case. Second, the provision prohibits a seller from misrepresenting that any person—such as a locator, broker, or organization that purports to be an independent trade association— ‘‘can provide an independent or reliable report about the business opportunity or the experiences of any current or former purchaser.’’ Providing a prospect with a list of brokers who are paid to give favorable reports, for example, would violate this provision because any statement a person on such a list makes would not be independent and reliable.456 No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report were directed to this provision, and the final Rule contains § 437.6(q) as recommended in the Staff Report. Section 437.6(r) prohibits a seller from failing to disclose payments to individuals identified as references, as well as any personal relationships the seller has with such individuals. Such prohibitions are necessary because an individual with a personal relationship with the seller, or who has been paid for his or her assessment of an opportunity, is likely to be biased, and any story of success or high earnings from any such person is suspect.457 The final Rule clarifies that the term ‘‘consideration’’ is to be interpreted broadly to include not only direct cash payments, but indirect financial benefits, such as forgiveness of debt, as well as other tangible benefits such as equipment, services, and discounts.458 The RPBOR modified slightly the language of this provision to make clear that the information that must be disclosed to a potential purchaser is not only the payment of any consideration to the reference by the seller, but also the existence of any relationship between the seller and the reference.459 Therefore, the RPBOR added clarifying language to the opening clause of § 437.6(r) so that it prohibits a failure to disclose any consideration paid, any personal relationship, or other past or current business relationship other than as the purchaser of the business opportunity being offered. No comments, either in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report, addressed this provision. Because the Commission finds that the small clarification to § 437.6(r) more accurately identifies the information that must be disclosed to a potential purchaser, the Commission adopts § 437.6(r) in the final Rule in the form recommended in the Staff Report. 18. Section 437.6(r): Failing To Disclose Consideration Paid to or Prior Relationship With Prior Purchaser Section 437.6(r) is intended to complement the prohibition in § 437.6(q) regarding the use of ‘‘shills.’’ Section 437.7 establishes the minimal record retention requirements necessary to document compliance and permit effective Rule enforcement. This section applies to both the business opportunity seller and its principals, to ensure that records required by the Rule are not destroyed if the seller goes out of business or otherwise ceases operations.460 As detailed below, sellers and their principals must keep, and make available to the Commission, the mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 454 See id. at n.236 (‘‘After earnings claims, false testimonials and shill references are the most common Section 5 allegations in Commission business opportunities cases.’’) 455 E.g., FTC v. Am. Entm’t Distribs., Inc., No. 04– 22431–CIV–Martinez (S.D. Fla. 2004); United States v. Vaughn, No. 01–20077–01–KHV (D. Kan. 2001); FTC v. Hart Mktg. Enters. Ltd., No. 98–222–CIV–T– 23 E (M.D. Fla. 1998); FTC v. Inetintl.com, No. 98– 2140 (C.D. Cal. 1998); FTC v. Infinity Multimedia, Inc., No. 96–6671–CIV–Gonzalez (S.D. Fla. 1996); FTC v. Allstate Bus. Consultants Group, Inc., No. 95–6634–CIV–Ryskamp (S.D. Fla. 1995). 456 E.g., FTC v. Affiliated Vendors Ass’n, Inc., No. 02–CV–0679–D (N.D. Tex. 2002); FTC v. Raymond Urso, No. 97–2680–CIV–Ungaro-Benages (S.D. Fla. 1997); see also 71 FR at 19077 n. 238. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 G. Section 437.7: Record Retention 457 Indeed, the Commission has long held that the failure to disclose compensation paid to an endorser is a deceptive practice in violation of Section 5. See 71 FR at 19077; see also Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising, 16 CFR 255 (Oct. 15, 2009). 458 71 FR at 19078. 459 73 FR at 16128, 16136. 460 71 FR at 19078. PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 following five types of records for a period of three years: (1) Section 437.7(a): Each materially different version of all documents required by the Rule; (2) Section 437.7(b): Each purchaser’s disclosure receipt; (3) Section 437.7(c): Each executed written contract with a purchaser; (4) Section 437.7(d): Each oral or written cancellation or refund request received from a purchaser; and (5) Section 437.7(e): All substantiation upon which the seller relies from the time an earnings claim is made. The Commission finds that these limited recordkeeping requirements strike the right balance, requiring no more than necessary for effective law enforcement, while minimizing compliance costs.461 Moreover, records can be retained electronically, helping to further minimize compliance costs. No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report were directed to this provision, and the final Rule contains § 437.7 as recommended in the Staff Report. H. Section 437.8: Franchise Exemption Section 437.8 is designed to eliminate potential overlap between the final Rule’s scope of coverage and that of the Amended Franchise Rule, so that no business would face duplicative compliance burdens.462 Accordingly, § 437.8 exempts from the final Rule’s coverage those business opportunities that: (1) Satisfy the definitional elements of the term ‘‘franchise’’ under the Amended Franchise Rule; (2) entail a written contract between the seller and the business opportunity buyer; and (3) require the buyer to make a payment that meets the Amended Franchise Rule’s minimum payment requirement. These criteria were designed to accomplish two ends: to ensure that certain categories of businesses ‘‘carved out’’ from the Amended Franchise Rule are not inappropriately subjected to coverage by the Business Opportunity Rule; 463 and, simultaneously, to obviate 461 Id. 462 Id.; see also 15 U.S.C. 57a(g) (authorizing the Commission to exempt persons or classes from all or part of rule coverage). 463 For example, businesses exempt from Amended Franchise Rule coverage pursuant to the exemption for fractional franchises would not be subject to coverage by the Business Opportunity Rule because such businesses would meet the criteria of § 437.8. This is an appropriate result because the same rationale underlying exemption of these types of businesses from the Amended Franchise Rule would also dictate that they not be covered by the Business Opportunity Rule—i.e., the franchisor is not likely to deceive the prospective franchisee or to subject the prospective franchisee to significant investment risk. Therefore, imposing the requirements of either the Amended Franchise E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 any loophole that could be exploited by certain other types of business opportunities that are exempt from the Amended Franchise Rule but that should be regulated by the Business Opportunity Rule. On the other hand, certain businesses carved out of Amended Franchise Rule coverage should not escape regulation by the final Rule—specifically, those exempt from the Amended Franchise Rule’s coverage due to the minimum payment exemption 464 or the oral agreement exemption.465 The Commission has concluded that while these two exemptions are warranted in the franchise context to ensure that the significant disclosure costs imposed by the Amended Franchise Rule are costjustified, they do not apply to the final Rule, with its significantly lighter disclosure burden.466 In the RNPR, the Commission solicited comment on whether the exemption was overly broad or overly narrow.467 In response to the RNPR, some commenters, primarily from the MLM industry, suggested limitations on the Rule by granting a safe harbor to exempt firms that require very low registration fees; 468 firms that offer refunds on inventory purchases; 469 firms that are publicly-traded; 470 firms that have a high net worth; 471 or firms that are members of a self-regulatory body, such as the DSA.472 These are not novel suggestions; each also was made in response to the INPR.473 In the RNPR, the Commission concluded that none of these factors is determinative of whether a company is, in fact, a pyramid scheme or otherwise engaged in deceptive conduct. Furthermore, the Commission noted that the effort to craft a workable rule using these criteria could undermine law enforcement efforts, as it would, at least in the case of minimum payment thresholds, provide scam operators with a means to circumvent the Rule.474 The Staff Report recommended that the Commission not Rule or the Business Opportunity Rule would not be justified. See 71 FR at 19078. 464 16 CFR 436.2(a)(3)(iii). 465 16 CFR 436.2(a)(3)(iv). 466 71 FR at 19078. 467 73 FR at 16133. 468 See, e.g., Babener–RNPR; Pre-Paid Legal– RNPR. 469 See, e.g., Pre-Paid Legal–RNPR; Tupperware– RNPR; IBA–RNPR. 470 Id. 471 See, e.g., IBA–RNPR. 472 See, e.g., DSA–RNPR. 473 73 FR at 16119–20. Moreover, none of the commenters offered any new rationale for expanding the proposed categories of exemption that had not previously been considered by the Commission. 474 Id. at 16120. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 expand the exemptions beyond those identified in the RPBOR. The Commission adopts § 437.8 as recommended in the Staff Report. I. Section 437.9: Outstanding Orders; Preemption 1. Section 437.9(a): Effect on Prior Commission Orders Section 437.9(a) addresses the effect the Rule may have on outstanding Commission orders. The Commission recognizes that the final Rule significantly changes the disclosure obligations for those sellers who are now under order in prior Commission actions. To enable business opportunity sellers to take advantage of the final Rule’s reduced disclosure obligations, as well as to reduce any potential conflicts between existing orders and the final Rule, § 437.9(a) permits persons under order to petition the Commission for relief consistent with the provisions of the new Rule. Under the RPBOR, business opportunities required by FTC or court order to follow the Franchise Rule, 16 CFR Part 436, would have been permitted to petition the Commission to amend the order so that the business opportunity could follow the provisions of the Business Opportunity Rule instead.475 Although no comments received in response to the RNPR addressed this provision, the Staff Report noted that while the Commission could modify an FTC administrative order, it would not have the authority to modify any order entered by a court.476 In the case of a court order, the Commission could, however, stipulate to an amendment of the order by the court to allow the business opportunity to follow the provisions of the Business Opportunity Rule. The Staff Report recommended, therefore, that § 437.9(a) be revised to add the phrase ‘‘or to stipulate to an amendment of the court order’’ as follows: ‘‘A business opportunity required by prior FTC or court order to follow the Franchise Rule, 16 CFR part 436, may petition the Commission to amend the order or to stipulate to an amendment of the court order so that the business opportunity may follow the provisions of this part.’’ In addition, the Staff Report noted that the first sentence of § 437.9(a) proposed in the RPBOR was superfluous, and recommended deleting it. No comments in response to the Staff Report were directed at this provision. Upon consideration of the staff’s recommendation and the rationale for 475 Id. at 16136 (RPBOR § 437.8(a)). Report at 127. 476 Staff PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76855 that recommendation, the Commission has decided to modify the text of this provision in the manner recommended in the Staff Report. As the Commission has stated previously, all determinations under this provision regarding the amendment of orders will be made on a case-by-case basis. 2. Section 437.9(b): Preemption Section 437.9(b) adopts a preemption policy similar to that embodied in the Amended Franchise Rule.477 It provides that the Commission does not intend to preempt state or local business opportunity laws, except to the extent of any conflict with the Rule. Further, a law does not conflict if it affords prospective purchasers equal or greater protection, such as a requirement for registration of disclosure documents or more extensive disclosures.478 One commenter suggested that the FTC should preempt conflicting state business opportunity rules, noting its belief that ‘‘enforcement of a nationwide standard by the FTC is preferable to a patchwork series of laws and regulations.’’ 479 The Staff Report noted that the commenter is suggesting that all state laws and regulations that do not mirror exactly the Business Opportunity Rule would be in conflict with the Rule, and should therefore be preempted. The Commission has long recognized that state laws and regulations that afford equal or greater protections than do FTC trade regulations are not subject to preemption,480 and therefore declines to follow this commenter’s recommendation. J. Section 437.10: Severability Finally, § 437.10 adopts the severability provision recommended by the Staff Report with one nonsubstantive change: The Commission removed the superfluous phrase, ‘‘it is the Commission’s intention that’’ from the provision. This provision makes clear that, if any part of the Rule is held 477 16 CFR 436.10. This approach is consistent with other Commission trade regulation rules. See, e.g., Appliance Labeling Rule, 16 CFR 305.17; Cooling-Off Rule, 16 CFR 429.2; Mail Order Rule, 16 CFR 435.3(b)(2). 478 Although state laws offering equal or greater protections are not preempted, § 437.6(c) of the final Rule prohibits providing state and federal disclosures together in one document. 479 Tupperware–RNPR (5/28/2008). No other comments were received. At the June 2009 Workshop, however, the panelist from the Maryland Attorney General’s Office expressed appreciation that states were not preempted from requiring that business opportunity sellers provide information in addition to that required by the proposed Rule. Cantone, June 2009 Tr at 20. 480 See, e.g., Mail Order Rule, 16 CFR 435.3(b)(2) (rule does not preempt state or local laws that afford equal or greater protections). E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 76856 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations invalid by a court, the remainder will still be in effect.481 No comments received in response to the RNPR or the Staff Report were directed to this provision. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 IV. Paperwork Reduction Act The Commission is submitting the final Rule and a Supplemental Supporting Statement to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA), 44 U.S.C. 3501–21. The final Rule amends a trade regulation rule governing business opportunity sales. The final Rule covers those business opportunities currently covered by the interim Business Opportunity Rule (and formerly covered by the Original Franchise Rule, as explained above), as well as certain others not covered by the interim Business Opportunity Rule, such as sellers of work-at-home programs. The final Rule requires business opportunity sellers to disclose specified information and to maintain certain records relating to business opportunity sales transactions. The currently approved estimate for the disclosure and recordkeeping burden under the interim Business Opportunity Rule is 16,750 hours for business opportunity sellers. That estimate was based on an estimated 2,500 business opportunity sellers. As discussed below, the final Rule reduces the existing burden on business opportunity sellers by streamlining disclosure requirements to minimize compliance costs. In the RNPR, Commission staff estimated there were approximately 3,050 business opportunity sellers covered by the RPBOR. This figure consisted of an estimated 2,500 vending machine, rack display, and other opportunity sellers currently covered by the interim Business Opportunity Rule, and an estimated 550 work-at-home opportunity sellers, which would be newly covered entities under the final Rule. Because the final Rule is no different than the RPBOR regarding the types of entities to which it applies, and the Commission received no information suggesting the need to update these prior estimates, the Commission retains them for the final Rule. Additionally, Commission staff estimates that approximately 174 of those sellers market business opportunities in Spanish and that approximately 79 of the 3,050 business 481 This provision is comparable to the severability provision in the Amended Franchise Rule, 16 CFR 436.11, as well as the severability provisions in other Commission rules. See, e.g., TSR, 16 CFR 310.9. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 opportunity sellers market in languages other than English or Spanish.482 A. Disclosure Requirements As discussed below, the final Rule is designed to streamline and substantially reduce the quantity of information business opportunity sellers are required to disclose under the interim Business Opportunity Rule. The final Rule impacts sellers differently, depending upon whether they are currently covered by the interim Business Opportunity Rule and what language they use to market the business opportunities. 1. Mandatory Disclosures For the 2,500 vending machine, rack display, and other business opportunity sellers currently covered by the interim Business Opportunity Rule, the final Rule substantially reduces the disclosures from more than 20 categories of information to five—the seller’s identifying information, earnings claims, lawsuits, refund and cancellation policies, and prior purchasers. This streamlining also will minimize compliance costs for the 550 business opportunity sellers that will be newly subject to the Rule. Business opportunity sellers must disclose whether or not they make earnings claims. The decision to make an earnings claim, however, is optional. While the disclosures of references and earnings claims retain, for the most part, the interim Business Opportunity Rule requirements, the required disclosure of lawsuits is reduced from the interim Business Opportunity Rule.483 The final Rule imposes one additional requirement that was not present in either the interim Business Opportunity Rule or the RPBOR, which was introduced in the Staff Report. For business opportunities marketed in Spanish, § 437.5 of the final Rule 482 To estimate how many of the 3,050 sellers market business opportunities in languages other than English, staff relied upon 2009 United States Census Bureau (‘‘Census’’) data. Calculations based upon a recent Census survey reveal that approximately 5.7% of the U.S. population speaks Spanish or Spanish Creole at home and speak English less than ‘‘very well.’’ Calculations based upon that same survey reveal that approximately 2.6% of the U.S. population speaks a language other than Spanish, Spanish Creole, or English at home and speak English less than ‘‘very well.’’ Staff therefore projected that 5.7% of all entities selling business opportunities market in Spanish or Spanish Creole and 2.6% of all entities selling business opportunities market in languages other than English, Spanish and Spanish Creole. https:// factfinder.census.gov/servlet/STTable?_bm=y&geo_id=01000US&qr_name=ACS_2009_1YR_G00_S1601&ds_name=ACS_2009_1YR_G00_&-_lang=en&redoLog=false. 483 See supra Section III.C.2. PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 requires that sellers provide potential purchasers with the Spanish version of the disclosure document (Appendix B to the Rule) and provide all other required disclosures in Spanish. For sales conducted in a language other than English or Spanish, the final Rule requires that sellers make the required disclosures in the same language as the sale, using the form and an accurate translation of the language set forth in Appendix A, as well as any additional required disclosures. As discussed in the Statement of Basis and Purpose, this translation requirement is supported by long-standing Commission policy, the Commission’s law enforcement experience, the rulemaking record, and the rationale supporting staff’s recommendation. 2. Incorporation of Existing Materials The final Rule reduces collection and dissemination costs from those imposed by the interim Business Opportunity Rule, by permitting sellers to reference in their disclosure documents materials already in their possession. For example, a seller need not repeat its refund policy in the text of the disclosure document, but may incorporate its contract or brochures, or other materials that already provide the necessary details. 3. Use of Electronic Dissemination of Information The final Rule defines the term ‘‘written’’ to include electronic media. Accordingly, all business opportunities covered by the final Rule are permitted to use the Internet and other electronic media to furnish disclosure documents. Allowing this distribution method should greatly reduce sellers’ compliance costs over the long run, especially costs associated with printing and distributing disclosure documents. As a result of this proposal, the Commission expects sellers’ compliance costs will decrease substantially over time. 4. Use of Computerized Data Collection Technology Finally, because of advances in computerized data collection technology, the Commission anticipates that the costs of collecting information and recordkeeping requirements imposed by the final Rule will be minimal. For example, a seller can easily maintain a spreadsheet of its purchasers, which can be sorted by location. This would enable a seller to easily comply with the reference disclosure requirement (at least 10 prior purchasers in the last three years who are located nearest to the prospective E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations purchaser, or, if there are not 10 prior purchasers, then all prior purchasers). In the alternative, the final Rule permits a seller to maintain a national list of purchasers. B. Recordkeeping Requirements Section 437.7 of the final Rule prescribes recordkeeping requirements necessary for effective enforcement of the Rule. Specifically, sellers of a covered business opportunity, and their principals, must retain for at least three years the following types of documents: (1) Each materially different version of all documents required by the Rule; (2) each purchaser’s disclosure receipt; (3) each executed written contract with a purchaser; and (4) all substantiation upon which the seller relies for each earnings claim made. The final Rule requires that these records be made available for the Commission’s inspection, but does not otherwise require their production. As previously noted, because of advances in computerized data collection technology, the Commission anticipates that the costs of collecting information and recordkeeping requirements imposed by the final Rule will be minimal. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 C. Estimated Hours Burden and Labor Cost For the RNPR, the Commission submitted the RPBOR and associated documentation under the PRA for OMB review.484 The Commission did not receive any public comments regarding staff’s PRA burden estimates. The instant burden estimates differ from those previously submitted in the RNPR in two respects: (1) They account for the final Rule’s requirement that sellers must provide the disclosure document and other required disclosures to potential purchasers in the same language the seller uses to market the business opportunity; 485 and (2) they incorporate the one hour recordkeeping burden estimate included in the currently approved interim Business Opportunity Rule’s burden estimates under the PRA. Through the Staff Report, the Commission sought comment on the new foreign language disclosure requirement, including the usefulness and sufficiency of the added foreign language disclosure requirement. The Staff Report, however, did not address 484 73 FR at 16129. discussed within the Statement of Basis and Purpose, this requirement was not present in the RNPR. Rather, it was recommended in the Staff Report, and ultimately adopted in the final Rule. 485 As VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 the associated PRA burden.486 The Commission received just one comment on the new disclosure translation requirement.487 1. Estimated Hours Burden: 10,533 The estimated 2,500 vending machine, rack display, and related opportunity sellers currently covered by the interim Business Opportunity Rule (and, previously, the Original Franchise Rule) will have a disclosure document that needs merely streamlining and updating to comply with the final Rule. Thus, FTC staff estimates that these businesses likely will require no more than 3 hours to complete those tasks. Conversely, staff estimates that for existing businesses that were not covered by the interim Business Opportunity Rule but will be covered by the final Rule, e.g., work-at-home opportunities, approximately 5 hours will be required to prepare a new disclosure document. Staff further estimates that the total hours required in the first year to develop a disclosure document will be 10,250 [(2,500 entities × 3 hours per entity) + (550 entities × 5 hours per entity)]. In addition, all these businesses likely will require approximately one hour per year to file and store records, for a total of 3,050 hours [3,050 entities × 1 hour per entity]. Accordingly, the estimated total hours burden for the first year of implementation of these amendments would be 13,300 hours [10,250 hours + 3,050 hours]. Commission staff estimates that in subsequent years, the 3,050 existing businesses will require no more than approximately two hours to update the disclosure document [6,100 total hours] and approximately one hour to file and store records [3,050 total hours], for a total of 9,150 hours [6,100 hours + 3,050 hours] per year to meet the final Rule requirements. Thus, cumulative average annual burden for affected sellers, based on a prospective three-year OMB clearance is 10,533 hours [((13,300 hours) + 18,300 hours (2 years × 9,150 hours per year)) ÷ 3]. 486 See Bureau of Consumer Protection, Staff Report to the Federal Trade Commission and Proposed Revised Trade Regulation Rule (16 CFR Part 437) (Nov. 2010) (‘‘Staff Report’’), available at https://www.ftc.gov/os/fedreg/2010/october/ 101028businessopportunitiesstaffreport.pdf. In November, the Commission published a notice in the Federal Register announcing the availability of, and seeking comment on, the Staff Report. See 75 FR 68559 (Nov. 8, 2010). 487 DOJ Staff Report at 2. The comment, from the Office of Consumer Litigation, U.S. Department of Justice, registered strong support for the requirement. PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76857 2. Estimated Labor Cost: $2,633,333 Labor costs are determined by applying applicable wage rates to associated burden hours. Commission staff assumes that an attorney likely would prepare or update the disclosure document at an estimated hourly rate of $250. As noted above, Commission staff estimates that 13,300 hours will be needed to prepare, file, and store the disclosure document and required records in the first year, for a total cost of $3,325,000 [13,300 hours × $250 per hour]. As noted above, Commission staff expects that there will be a reduction in the annual hours burden after the first year to approximately 9,150 hours. Accordingly, staff estimates that the labor cost burden for subsequent years will be reduced to $2,287,500 [9,150 hours x $250 per hour]. Thus, the average annual cost is approximately $2,633,333 [(($3,325,000) + ($2,287,500 × 2)) ÷ 3], when averaged over a prospective three-year OMB clearance. Should disclosure or recordkeeping obligations be performed by clerical staff, the total labor costs would be significantly less. 3. Estimated Capital and Other NonLabor Costs: $3,068,838 Business opportunity sellers must also incur costs to print and distribute the single-page disclosure document, plus any attachments. These costs vary based upon the length of the attachments and the number of copies produced to meet the expected demand. Commission staff estimates that 3,050 business opportunity sellers will print and mail approximately 1,000 disclosure documents per year at a cost of $1.00 per document, for a total cost of $3,050,000. This is a conservative estimate because Commission staff anticipates that these costs will be reduced by many business opportunity sellers electing to furnish disclosures electronically, e.g., via email or the Internet. For sales conducted in a language other than English and Spanish, the final Rule requires that sellers use the form appearing in Appendix A and accurately translate it into the language used for sale. Thus, sellers marketing in languages other than English or Spanish will incur costs to translate the disclosure document, and these sellers may also need to translate the other required disclosures that may be attached to the disclosure document. Commission staff estimates that sellers marketing business opportunities in languages other than English and Spanish will incur a cost of E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 76858 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations approximately $6,705 to translate the disclosure document in the first year. This figure is based upon Commission staff’s estimate that it will cost approximately 17.5 cents to translate each word into the language the sellers use to market the opportunities.488 There are 485 words in Appendix A. Therefore, the total cost burden to translate the disclosure document is approximately $6,705 [79 sellers × (17.5 cents per word × 485 words)]. In subsequent years, the existing business opportunities sellers will not incur additional costs to translate the Appendix A as it will already have been translated during the first year. The 174 sellers marketing business opportunities in Spanish will not incur any additional costs to translate Appendix A, as a Spanish version of that document is provided for them, as Appendix B to the final Rule. Commission staff estimates that in the first year, sellers marketing business opportunities in languages other than English will incur a total cost burden of approximately $27,672 [(79 sellers + 174 sellers) × (17.5 cents per word × 625 words)] to translate their responses to the five mandatory disclosures required in the disclosure document. This estimate is based upon assumptions that all sellers marketing business opportunities in languages other than English: (1) Are marketing in both English and another language; (2) are not incorporating any existing materials into their disclosure document; (3) have been the subject of civil or criminal legal actions; (4) are making earnings claims; (5) have a refund or cancellation policy; and (6) because of all of the above assumptions, require approximately 625 words (approximately 2.5 standard, doublespaced pages) to provide the required information. In reality, because it is unlikely that all such assumptions will apply to every seller marketing business opportunities in languages other than English, the cost burden will likely be much lower. In subsequent years, due to the final Rule’s requirement that sellers must update their disclosures, Commission staff estimates that sellers may incur an additional cost burden of $11,069 [253 sellers × (17.5 cents per word × 250 words—approximately one standard, double-spaced page)] to translate the updates. Therefore, cumulative average cost for affected sellers, based on a prospective three-year OMB clearance, to print and distribute the disclosure document and any attachments and to translate both 488 17.5 cents is staff’s estimate of the current market translation rate per word. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 the disclosure document and the additional required disclosures would be $3,068,838 [(($3,050,000 × 3) + $6,705 + $27,672 + ($11,069 × 2)) ÷ 3]. V. Regulatory Analysis and Regulatory Flexibility Act Under Section 22 of the FTC Act, 15 U.S.C. 57b, the Commission must issue a regulatory analysis for a proceeding to amend a rule only when it: (1) Estimates that the amendment will have an annual effect on the national economy of $100,000,000 or more; (2) estimates that the amendment will cause a substantial change in the cost or price of certain categories of goods or services; or (3) otherwise determines that the amendment will have a significant effect upon covered entities or upon consumers. The Commission has determined that the final Rule will not have such an annual effect on the national economy, on the cost or prices of goods or services sold through business opportunities, or on covered businesses or consumers. As noted in the Paperwork Reduction Act discussion above, the Commission staff estimates each business affected by the Rule will likely incur only minimal compliance costs. The Regulatory Flexibility Act (‘‘RFA’’), 5 U.S.C. 601–612, requires an agency to provide an Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis (‘‘IRFA’’) with a proposed rule and a Final Regulatory Flexibility Analysis (‘‘FRFA’’) with the final rule, if any, unless the agency certifies that the rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.489 The FTC does not expect that the final Rule will have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities and this document serves as notice to the Small Business Administration of the agency’s certification of no significant impact. The abbreviated disclosure and recordkeeping requirements of the final Rule are the minimum necessary to give consumers the information they need to protect themselves and permit effective enforcement of the Rule. Companies previously covered by the interim Business Opportunity Rule will experience a reduction in their compliance burden, while companies not previously covered will have minimal new disclosure obligations. As such, the economic impact of the final Rule will be minimal. In any event, the burdens imposed on small entities are likely to be relatively small. In the RNPR, the Commission provided notice to the Small Business 489 See PO 00000 5 U.S.C. 603–605. Frm 00044 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 Administration of the agency’s certification of no significant impact. Nonetheless, the Commission determined that it was appropriate to publish an IRFA in order to inquire into the impact of the proposed Rule on small entities. Based on the IRFA set forth in the Commission’s earlier notice of proposed rulemaking, a review of the public comments submitted in response to that notice and additional information and analysis by Commission staff, the Commission submits this FRFA. A. Need for and Objectives of the Final Rule The Commission’s law enforcement experience provides ample evidence that fraud is pervasive in the sale of many business opportunities marketed to consumers. Yet, the Commission believes that the current requirements of the interim Business Opportunity Rule are more extensive than necessary to protect prospective purchasers of business opportunities from deception. The pre-sale disclosures provided by the final Rule will give consumers the information they need to protect themselves from fraudulent sales claims, while minimizing the compliance costs and burdens on sellers. The objective of the final Rule is to provide consumers considering the purchase of a business opportunity with material information they need to investigate the offering thoroughly so they can protect themselves from fraudulent claims, while minimizing the compliance burdens on sellers. The legal basis for the final Rule is Section 18 of the FTC Act, 15 U.S.C. 57a, which authorizes the Commission to promulgate, modify, and repeal trade regulation rules that define with specificity acts or practices in or affecting commerce that are unfair or deceptive within the meaning of Section (5)(a)(1) of the FTC Act, 15 U.S.C. 45(a)(1). B. Significant Issues Raised by Public Comments, Summary of Agency’s Assessment of These Issues, and Changes, if Any, Made in Response In crafting the final Rule, the Commission has carefully considered the comments received throughout the Rule amendment proceeding. Section III of this document provides a more detailed discussion of the comments received by the Commission and the Commission’s response to those comments. In sum, in response to INRP, the Commission received more than 17,000 comments, the overwhelming majority E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations of which came from the MLM industry. The MLM industry urged the Commission to exclude MLM plans from the scope of IPBOR due to the burdens imposed on them through the IPBOR and the IPBOR’s failure to differentiate between unlawful pyramid schemes and legitimate companies using an MLM model. In consideration of the comments received in response to the INPR, and a reassessment of the Commission’s law enforcement history, the Commission subsequently issued a RNPR, in which the Commission decided to narrow the scope of the IPBOR to avoid broadly sweeping in all sellers of MLM plans. In addition, the Commission proposed a more narrowed definition of ‘‘business opportunity’’ and also eliminated two required disclosures—information about legal actions pertaining to a business opportunity seller’s sales personnel, and the number of cancellation or refund requests the seller received. The Commission received fewer than 125 comments and rebuttal comments in response to RNPR addressing these changes. The Commission received written comment from six individuals and entities following the public workshop held by the Commission. Finally, the Commission received 27 comments in response to the Staff Report. Many of those comments opposed the Commission’s decision to narrow the scope of the Rule to avoid broadly sweeping in the MLMs. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 C. Description and an Estimate of the Number of Small Entities to Which the Final Rule Will Apply, or Explanation Why No Estimate Is Available The final Rule primarily applies to ‘‘sellers’’ of business opportunities, including vending, rack display, medical billing, and work-at-home (e.g., craft assembly, envelope stuffing) opportunities. The Commission believes that many of these sellers fall into the category of small entities. Determining the precise number of small entities affected by the final Rule, however, is difficult due to the wide range of businesses engaged in business opportunity sales. The staff estimates that there are approximately 3,050 business opportunity sellers, including some 2,500 vending machine, rack display, and related opportunity sellers and 550 work-at-home opportunity sellers. Most established and some startup business opportunities would likely be considered small businesses according to the applicable Small Business Administration (‘‘SBA’’) size VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 standards.490 The FTC staff estimates that as many as 70% of business opportunities, as defined by the Rule, are small businesses. D. Description of the Projected Reporting, Recordkeeping, and Other Compliance Requirements of the Final Rule, Including an Estimate of the Classes of Small Entities That Will Be Subject to the Requirements, and the Type of Professional Skills That Will Be Necessary To Comply As discussed in the Paperwork Reduction Act analysis of this notice (Section IV), the final Rule will impose compliance requirements (e.g., disclosure) and minor recordkeeping requirements on those entities covered by the final Rule. Specifically, the final Rule imposes disclosure and recordkeeping requirements, within the meaning of the Paperwork Reduction Act, on the ’’sellers’’ of business opportunities and their principals. The disclosure and recordkeeping requirements are fewer in number and lesser in extent than requirements currently applicable to such entities now covered by the interim Business Opportunity Rule and formerly covered by the Original Franchise Rule. Section 437.2 of the final Rule requires ‘‘sellers’’ of covered business opportunities to provide potential purchasers with a onepage disclosure document, as specified by § 437.3 and Appendix A and if applicable, Appendix B, at least seven calendar days before they sign a contract or pay any money toward a purchase. For business opportunities marketed in Spanish, § 437.5 of the final Rule requires that sellers provide potential purchasers with the Spanish version of the disclosure document (Appendix B to the Rule) and provide any required disclosures in Spanish. For sales conducted in a language other than English or Spanish, the final Rule requires that sellers use the form and an accurate translation of the language set forth in Appendix A. Section 437.7 of the final Rule prescribes recordkeeping requirements necessary for effective enforcement of the Rule. Specifically, sellers of a covered business opportunity, and their principals, must retain for at least three years the following types of documents: (1) Each materially different version of 490 Since October 2000, SBA size standards have been based on the North American Industry Classification System (‘‘NAICS’’), in place of the Standard Industrial Classification (‘‘SIC’’) system. In general, a company in a non-manufacturing industry is a small business if its average annual receipts are $7 million or less. See https:// www.sba.gov/content/summary-size-standardsindustry. PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76859 all documents required by the Rule; (2) each purchaser’s disclosure receipt; (3) each executed written contract with a purchaser; and (4) all substantiation upon which the seller relies for each earnings claim made. The final Rule requires that these records be made available for inspection by the Commission, but does not otherwise require production of the records. Commission staff assumes that sellers will hire an attorney to complete, update, file, and store the disclosure documents. If applicable, sellers may require translation services to comply with the disclosure requirements. E. Steps the Agency Has Taken in the Final Rule To Minimize Any Significant Economic Impact of the Final Rule on Small Entities, Consistent With Applicable Statutory Objectives, Including the Factual and Legal Basis for the Alternatives Adopted and Those Rejected As discussed throughout this document, the Commission has attempted to reduce compliance costs wherever possible. Compliance with the final Rule’s disclosure requirements is significantly less burdensome than with the interim Business Opportunity Rule. The final Rule’s disclosure and recordkeeping requirements are designed to impose the minimum burden on all affected business opportunity sellers, regardless of size. In formulating the final Rule, the Commission has taken a number of significant steps to minimize the burdens it would impose on large and small businesses. These include: (1) Limiting the required pre-sale disclosure to a one-page document, with check boxes provided to simplify disclosure responses; (2) allowing the disclosure to refer to information in other existing documents to avoid needless duplication; (3) permitting the disclosure document itself to be furnished in electronic form to minimize printing and distribution costs; and (4) employing specific prohibitions in place of affirmative disclosures whenever possible. Moreover, because the majority of sellers covered by the final Rule are already required to comply with the Commission’s interim Business Opportunity Rule and the business opportunity laws in 22 states, FTC staff anticipates that the final Rule will drastically reduce their current compliance costs, while imposing exceedingly modest ongoing compliance costs on all covered sellers. Consequently, the Commission believes that the final Rule will not have a E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 76860 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations significant economic impact upon small businesses. The final Rule requires business opportunity sellers to provide only five affirmative disclosures in a one-page disclosure document. This is a significant reduction from the more than 20 disclosures now required by the Commission’s interim Business Opportunity Rule, with which many business opportunity sellers are now obligated to comply. VI. Final Rule Language List of Subjects in 16 CFR Part 437 Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Trade practices. By direction of the Commission. Donald S. Clark, Secretary. For the reasons set forth in the preamble, the Federal Trade Commission amends title 16, Code of Federal Regulations, by revising part 437 to read as follows: PART 437—BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY RULE Sec. 437.1 Definitions. 437.2 The obligation to furnish written documents. 437.3 The disclosure document. 437.4 Earnings claims. 437.5 Sales conducted in Spanish or other languages besides English. 437.6 Other prohibited practices. 437.7 Record retention. 437.8 Franchise exemption. 437.9 Outstanding orders; preemption. 437.10 Severability. Appendix A to Part 437—Disclosure of Important Information About Business Opportunity Appendix B to Part 437—Disclosure of Important Information About Business Opportunity (Spanish-Language Version) Authority: 15 U.S.C. 41–58. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 § 437.1 Definitions. The following definitions shall apply throughout this part: (a) Action means a criminal information, indictment, or proceeding; a civil complaint, cross claim, counterclaim, or third party complaint in a judicial action or proceeding; arbitration; or any governmental administrative proceeding, including, but not limited to, an action to obtain or issue a cease and desist order, an assurance of voluntary compliance, and an assurance of discontinuance. (b) Affiliate means an entity controlled by, controlling, or under common control with a business opportunity seller. (c) Business opportunity means a commercial arrangement in which: VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 (1) A seller solicits a prospective purchaser to enter into a new business; and (2) The prospective purchaser makes a required payment; and (3) The seller, expressly or by implication, orally or in writing, represents that the seller or one or more designated persons will: (i) Provide locations for the use or operation of equipment, displays, vending machines, or similar devices, owned, leased, controlled, or paid for by the purchaser; or (ii) Provide outlets, accounts, or customers, including, but not limited to, Internet outlets, accounts, or customers, for the purchaser’s goods or services; or (iii) Buy back any or all of the goods or services that the purchaser makes, produces, fabricates, grows, breeds, modifies, or provides, including but not limited to providing payment for such services as, for example, stuffing envelopes from the purchaser’s home. (d) Designated person means any person, other than the seller, whose goods or services the seller suggests, recommends, or requires that the purchaser use in establishing or operating a new business. (e) Disclose or state means to give information in writing that is clear and conspicuous, accurate, concise, and legible. (f) Earnings claim means any oral, written, or visual representation to a prospective purchaser that conveys, expressly or by implication, a specific level or range of actual or potential sales, or gross or net income or profits. Earnings claims include, but are not limited to: (1) Any chart, table, or mathematical calculation that demonstrates possible results based upon a combination of variables; and (2) Any statements from which a prospective purchaser can reasonably infer that he or she will earn a minimum level of income (e.g., ‘‘earn enough to buy a Porsche,’’ ‘‘earn a six-figure income,’’ or ‘‘earn your investment back within one year’’). (g) Exclusive territory means a specified geographic or other actual or implied marketing area in which the seller promises not to locate additional purchasers or offer the same or similar goods or services as the purchaser through alternative channels of distribution. (h) General media means any instrumentality through which a person may communicate with the public, including, but not limited to, television, radio, print, Internet, billboard, Web site, commercial bulk email, and mobile communications. PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 (i) Material means likely to affect a person’s choice of, or conduct regarding, goods or services. (j) New business means a business in which the prospective purchaser is not currently engaged, or a new line or type of business. (k) Person means an individual, group, association, limited or general partnership, corporation, or any other business entity. (l) Prior business means: (1) A business from which the seller acquired, directly or indirectly, the major portion of the business’ assets; or (2) Any business previously owned or operated by the seller, in whole or in part. (m) Providing locations, outlets, accounts, or customers means furnishing the prospective purchaser with existing or potential locations, outlets, accounts, or customers; requiring, recommending, or suggesting one or more locators or lead generating companies; providing a list of locator or lead generating companies; collecting a fee on behalf of one or more locators or lead generating companies; offering to furnish a list of locations; or otherwise assisting the prospective purchaser in obtaining his or her own locations, outlets, accounts, or customers, provided, however, that advertising and general advice about business development and training shall not be considered as ‘‘providing locations, outlets, accounts, or customers.’’ (n) Purchaser means a person who buys a business opportunity. (o) Quarterly means as of January 1, April 1, July 1, and October 1. (p) Required payment means all consideration that the purchaser must pay to the seller or an affiliate, either by contract or by practical necessity, as a condition of obtaining or commencing operation of the business opportunity. Such payment may be made directly or indirectly through a third party. A required payment does not include payments for the purchase of reasonable amounts of inventory at bona fide wholesale prices for resale or lease. (q) Seller means a person who offers for sale or sells a business opportunity. (r) Signature or signed means a person’s affirmative steps to authenticate his or her identity. It includes a person’s handwritten signature, as well as an electronic or digital form of signature to the extent that such signature is recognized as a valid signature under applicable federal law or state contract law. (s) Written or in writing means any document or information in printed form or in any form capable of being downloaded, printed, or otherwise E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations immediately preceding the date that the business opportunity is offered, check the ‘‘yes’’ box: (A) The seller; (B) Any affiliate or prior business of the seller; or (C) Any of the seller’s officers, directors, sales managers, or any § 437.2 The obligation to furnish written individual who occupies a position or documents. performs a function similar to an officer, In connection with the offer for sale, director, or sales manager of the seller. sale, or promotion of a business (ii) If the ‘‘yes’’ box is checked, opportunity, it is a violation of this Rule disclose all such actions in an and an unfair or deceptive act or attachment to the disclosure document. practice in violation of Section 5 of the State the full caption of each action Federal Trade Commission Act (‘‘FTC (names of the principal parties, case Act’’) for any seller to fail to furnish a number, full name of court, and filing prospective purchaser with the material date). For each action, the seller may information required by §§ 437.3(a) and also provide a brief accurate statement 437.4(a) of this part in writing at least not to exceed 100 words that describes seven calendar days before the earlier of the action. (iii) If there are no actions to disclose, the time that the prospective purchaser: check the ‘‘no’’ box. (a) Signs any contract in connection (4) Cancellation or refund policy. If with the business opportunity sale; or (b) Makes a payment or provides other the seller offers a refund or the right to cancel the purchase, check the ‘‘yes’’ consideration to the seller, directly or box. If so, state all material terms and indirectly through a third party. conditions of the refund or cancellation § 437.3 The disclosure document. policy in an attachment to the In connection with the offer for sale, disclosure document. If no refund or sale, or promotion of a business cancellation is offered, check the ‘‘no’’ opportunity, it is a violation of this Rule box. and an unfair or deceptive act or (5) References. (i) State the name, practice in violation of Section 5 of the state, and telephone number of all FTC Act, for any seller to: purchasers who purchased the business (a) Fail to disclose to a prospective opportunity within the last three years. purchaser the following material If more than 10 purchasers purchased information in a single written the business opportunity within the last document in the form and using the three years, the seller may limit the language set forth in appendix A to this disclosure by stating the name, state, part; or if the offer for sale, sale, or and telephone number of at least the 10 promotion of a business opportunity is purchasers within the past three years conducted in Spanish, in the form and who are located nearest to the using the language set forth in appendix prospective purchaser’s location. B to this part; or if the offer for sale, sale, Alternatively, a seller may furnish a or promotion of a business opportunity prospective buyer with a list disclosing is conducted in a language other than all purchasers nationwide within the English or Spanish, using the form and last three years. If choosing this option, an accurate translation of the language insert the words ‘‘See Attached List’’ set forth in appendix A to this part: without removing the list headings or (1) Identifying information. State the the numbers 1 through 10, and attach a name, business address, and telephone list of the references to the disclosure number of the seller, the name of the document. salesperson offering the opportunity, (ii) Clearly and conspicuously, and in and the date when the disclosure immediate conjunction with the list of document is furnished to the references, state the following: ‘‘If you prospective purchaser. buy a business opportunity from the (2) Earnings claims. If the seller seller, your contact information can be makes an earnings claim, check the disclosed in the future to other buyers.’’ ‘‘yes’’ box and attach the earnings (6) Receipt. Attach a duplicate copy of statement required by § 437.4. If not, the disclosure document to be signed check the ‘‘no’’ box. and dated by the purchaser. The seller (3) Legal actions. (i) If any of the may inform the prospective purchaser following persons has been the subject how to return the signed receipt (for of any civil or criminal action for example, by sending to a street address, misrepresentation, fraud, securities law email address, or facsimile telephone violations, or unfair or deceptive number). (b) Fail to update the disclosures practices, including violations of any required by paragraph (a) of this section FTC Rule, within the 10 years mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 preserved in tangible form and read. It includes: type-set, word processed, or handwritten documents; information on computer disk or CD–ROM; information sent via email; or information posted on the Internet. It does not include mere oral statements. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76861 at least quarterly to reflect any changes in the required information, including, but not limited to, any changes in the seller’s refund or cancellation policy, or the list of references; provided, however, that until a seller has 10 purchasers, the list of references must be updated monthly. § 437.4 Earnings claims. In connection with the offer for sale, sale, or promotion of a business opportunity, it is a violation of this Rule and an unfair or deceptive act or practice in violation of Section 5 of the FTC Act, for the seller to: (a) Make any earnings claim to a prospective purchaser, unless the seller: (1) Has a reasonable basis for its claim at the time the claim is made; (2) Has in its possession written materials that substantiate its claim at the time the claim is made; (3) Makes the written substantiation available upon request to the prospective purchaser and to the Commission; and (4) Furnishes to the prospective purchaser an earnings claim statement. The earnings claim statement shall be a single written document and shall state the following information: (i) The title ‘‘EARNINGS CLAIM STATEMENT REQUIRED BY LAW’’ in capital, bold type letters; (ii) The name of the person making the earnings claim and the date of the earnings claim; (iii) The earnings claim; (iv) The beginning and ending dates when the represented earnings were achieved; (v) The number and percentage of all persons who purchased the business opportunity prior to the ending date in paragraph (a)(4)(iv) of this section who achieved at least the stated level of earnings; (vi) Any characteristics of the purchasers who achieved at least the represented level of earnings, such as their location, that may differ materially from the characteristics of the prospective purchasers being offered the business opportunity; and (vii) A statement that written substantiation for the earnings claim will be made available to the prospective purchaser upon request. (b) Make any earnings claim in the general media, unless the seller: (1) Has a reasonable basis for its claim at the time the claim is made; (2) Has in its possession written material that substantiates its claim at the time the claim is made; (3) States in immediate conjunction with the claim: E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 76862 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations (i) The beginning and ending dates when the represented earnings were achieved; and (ii) The number and percentage of all persons who purchased the business opportunity prior to the ending date in paragraph (b)(3)(i) of this section who achieved at least the stated level of earnings. (c) Disseminate industry financial, earnings, or performance information unless the seller has written substantiation demonstrating that the information reflects, or does not exceed, the typical or ordinary financial, earnings, or performance experience of purchasers of the business opportunity being offered for sale. (d) Fail to notify any prospective purchaser in writing of any material changes affecting the relevance or reliability of the information contained in an earnings claim statement before the prospective purchaser signs any contract or makes a payment or provides other consideration to the seller, directly or indirectly, through a third party. § 437.5 Sales conducted in Spanish or other languages besides English. (a) If the seller conducts the offer for sale, sale, or promotion of a business opportunity in Spanish, the seller must provide the disclosure document required by § 437.3(a) in the form and language set forth in appendix B to this part, and the disclosures required by §§ 437.3(a) and 437.4 must be made in Spanish. (b) If the seller conducts the offer for sale, sale, or promotion of a business opportunity in a language other than English or Spanish, the seller must provide the disclosure document required by § 437.3(a) using the form and an accurate translation of the language set forth in appendix A to this part, and the disclosures required by §§ 437.3(a) and 437.4 must be made in that language. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 § 437.6 Other prohibited practices. In connection with the offer for sale, sale, or promotion of a business opportunity, it is a violation of this part and an unfair or deceptive act or practice in violation of Section 5 of the FTC Act for any seller, directly or indirectly through a third party, to: (a) Disclaim, or require a prospective purchaser to waive reliance on, any statement made in any document or attachment that is required or permitted to be disclosed under this Rule; (b) Make any claim or representation, orally, visually, or in writing, that is inconsistent with or contradicts the information required to be disclosed by VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 §§ 437.3 (basic disclosure document) and 437.4 (earnings claims document) of this Rule; (c) Include in any disclosure document or earnings claim statement any materials or information other than what is explicitly required or permitted by this Rule. For the sole purpose of enhancing the prospective purchaser’s ability to maneuver through an electronic version of a disclosure document or earnings statement, the seller may include scroll bars and internal links. All other features (e.g., multimedia tools such as audio, video, animation, or pop-up screens) are prohibited; (d) Misrepresent the amount of sales, or gross or net income or profits a prospective purchaser may earn or that prior purchasers have earned; (e) Misrepresent that any governmental entity, law, or regulation prohibits a seller from: (1) Furnishing earnings information to a prospective purchaser; or (2) Disclosing to prospective purchasers the identity of other purchasers of the business opportunity; (f) Fail to make available to prospective purchasers, and to the Commission upon request, written substantiation for the seller’s earnings claims; (g) Misrepresent how or when commissions, bonuses, incentives, premiums, or other payments from the seller to the purchaser will be calculated or distributed; (h) Misrepresent the cost, or the performance, efficacy, nature, or central characteristics of the business opportunity or the goods or services offered to a prospective purchaser; (i) Misrepresent any material aspect of any assistance offered to a prospective purchaser; (j) Misrepresent the likelihood that a seller, locator, or lead generator will find locations, outlets, accounts, or customers for the purchaser; (k) Misrepresent any term or condition of the seller’s refund or cancellation policies; (l) Fail to provide a refund or cancellation when the purchaser has satisfied the terms and conditions disclosed pursuant to § 437.3(a)(4); (m) Misrepresent a business opportunity as an employment opportunity; (n) Misrepresent the terms of any territorial exclusivity or territorial protection offered to a prospective purchaser; (o) Assign to any purchaser a purported exclusive territory that, in fact, encompasses the same or PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 overlapping areas already assigned to another purchaser; (p) Misrepresent that any person, trademark or service mark holder, or governmental entity, directly or indirectly benefits from, sponsors, participates in, endorses, approves, authorizes, or is otherwise associated with the sale of the business opportunity or the goods or services sold through the business opportunity; (q) Misrepresent that any person: (1) Has purchased a business opportunity from the seller or has operated a business opportunity of the type offered by the seller; or (2) Can provide an independent or reliable report about the business opportunity or the experiences of any current or former purchaser. (r) Fail to disclose, with respect to any person identified as a purchaser or operator of a business opportunity offered by the seller: (1) Any consideration promised or paid to such person. Consideration includes, but is not limited to, any payment, forgiveness of debt, or provision of equipment, services, or discounts to the person or to a third party on the person’s behalf; or (2) Any personal relationship or any past or present business relationship other than as the purchaser or operator of the business opportunity being offered by the seller. § 437.7 Record retention. To prevent the unfair and deceptive acts or practices specified in this Rule, business opportunity sellers and their principals must prepare, retain, and make available for inspection by Commission officials copies of the following documents for a period of three years: (a) Each materially different version of all documents required by this Rule; (b) Each purchaser’s disclosure receipt; (c) Each executed written contract with a purchaser; and (d) All substantiation upon which the seller relies for each earnings claim from the time each such claim is made. § 437.8 Franchise exemption. The provisions of this Rule shall not apply to any business opportunity that constitutes a ‘‘franchise,’’ as defined in the Franchise Rule, 16 CFR part 436; provided, however, that the provisions of this Rule shall apply to any such franchise if it is exempted from the provisions of part 436 because, either: (a) Under § 436.8(a)(1), the total of the required payments or commitments to make a required payment, to the franchisor or an affiliate that are made E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations any time from before to within six months after commencing operation of the franchisee’s business is less than $500, or (b) Under § 436.8(a)(7), there is no written document describing any material term or aspect of the relationship or arrangement. § 437.9 Outstanding orders; preemption. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 (a) A business opportunity required by prior FTC or court order to follow the Franchise Rule, 16 CFR part 436, may VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 petition the Commission to amend the order or to stipulate to an amendment of the court order so that the business opportunity may follow the provisions of this part. (b) The FTC does not intend to preempt the business opportunity sales practices laws of any state or local government, except to the extent of any conflict with this part. A law is not in conflict with this Rule if it affords prospective purchasers equal or greater protection, such as registration of PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4700 76863 disclosure documents or more extensive disclosures. All such disclosures, however, must be made in a separate state disclosure document. § 437.10 Severability. The provisions of this part are separate and severable from one another. If any provision is stayed or determined to be invalid, the remaining provisions shall continue in effect. BILLING CODE 6750–01–P E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 VerDate Mar<15>2010 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations 16:03 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4725 E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 ER08DE11.000</GPH> mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 76864 76865 [FR Doc. 2011–30597 Filed 12–7–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6750–01–C VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:47 Dec 07, 2011 Jkt 226001 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 9990 E:\FR\FM\08DER2.SGM 08DER2 ER08DE11.001</GPH> mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES2 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 / Rules and Regulations

Agencies

FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION

[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 236 (Thursday, December 8, 2011)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 76816-76865]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-30597]

[[Page 76815]]

Vol. 76

Thursday,

No. 236

December 8, 2011

Part II

Federal Trade Commission

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

16 CFR Part 437

Business Opportunity Rule; Final Rule

Federal Register / Vol. 76 , No. 236 / Thursday, December 8, 2011 /
Rules and Regulations

[[Page 76816]]

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION

16 CFR Part 437

RIN 3084-AB04

Business Opportunity Rule

AGENCY: Federal Trade Commission (FTC or Commission).

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The Commission is adopting final amendments to its Trade
Regulation Rule entitled ``Disclosure Requirements and Prohibitions
Concerning Business Opportunities'' (``Business Opportunity Rule'' or
``Rule''). Among other things, the Business Opportunity Rule has been
amended to broaden its scope to cover business opportunity sellers not
covered by the interim Business Opportunity Rule, such as sellers of
work-at-home opportunities, and to streamline and simplify the
disclosures that sellers must provide to prospective purchasers. The
final Rule is based upon the comments received in response to an
Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (``ANPR''), an Initial Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking (``INPR''), a Revised Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
(``RNPR''), a public workshop, a Staff Report, and other information
discussed herein. This document also contains the text of the final
Rule and the Rule's Statement of Basis and Purpose (``SBP''), including
a Regulatory Analysis.

DATES: The provisions of the final Rule will become effective on March
1, 2012.

ADDRESSES: Requests for copies of the final Rule and the SBP should be
sent to Public Reference Branch, Room 130, Federal Trade Commission,
600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20580. The complete record
of this proceeding is also available at that address. Relevant portions
of the proceeding, including the final Rule and SBP, are available at
https://www.ftc.gov.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Christine M. Todaro, (202) 326-3711,
Division of Marketing Practices, Room H-286, Bureau of Consumer
Protection, Federal Trade Commission, 600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW.,
Washington, DC 20580.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The final Rule modifies the interim Business
Opportunity Rule in two significant ways. First, the final Rule
contains an expanded definition of ``business opportunity'' aimed at
extending the scope of the Rule to business opportunities previously
not covered, such as work-at-home programs. Second, although the final
Rule's scope is broader than the interim Business Opportunity Rule, the
compliance burden is reduced. Specifically, in contrast to the
extensive disclosures previously required, the final Rule now requires
that business opportunity sellers provide prospective customers with a
substantially simplified and streamlined one-page disclosure document.
The final Rule also adds affirmative prohibitions on misrepresentations
and omissions, as well as disclosure requirements for sales conducted
in Spanish and other languages besides English.

Statement of Basis and Purpose

Key Terms and Abbreviations Used Throughout This Statement of Basis and
Purpose

``Amended Franchise Rule'' refers to the amended Franchise Rule
published at 72 FR 15444 (Mar. 30, 2007) and codified at 16 CFR 436.
``ANPR'' refers to the Trade Regulation Rule on Franchising and
Business Opportunity Ventures: Advanced Notice of Proposed
Rulemaking, 62 FR 9115 (Feb. 28, 1997).
``Initial Proposed Disclosure Document'' refers to the original
version of the Disclosure Document that was proposed in the INPR in
2006.
``INPR'' refers to the Initial Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for the
Business Opportunity Rule, 71 FR 9054 (Apr. 12, 2006).
``Interim Business Opportunity Rule'' refers to the Business
Opportunity Rule, codified at 16 CFR 437 that is currently in effect
and is the subject of these amendment proceedings.
``IPBOR'' refers to the Initial Proposed Business Opportunity Rule,
which was proposed in the INPR in 2006.
``Macro Report'' refers to Macro International, Inc.'s report to the
FTC on the Disclosure Form, available at https://www.ftc.gov/bcp/workshops/bizopps/disclosure-form-report.pdf.
``Original Franchise Rule'' refers to the original Franchise Rule
published at 43 FR 59614 (Dec. 21, 1978).
``RNPR'' refers to the Revised Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for the
Business Opportunity Rule, 73 FR 16110 (Mar. 26, 2008).
``RPBOR'' refers to the Revised Proposed Business Opportunity Rule,
which was proposed in the RNPR in 2008.
``Staff Report'' refers to FTC staff's Staff Report to the Federal
Trade Commission and Proposed Revised Trade Regulation Rule (16 CFR
Part 437). The Staff Report is available at https://www.ftc.gov/os/fedreg/2010/october/101028businessopportunitiesstaffreport.pdf.
``Workshop'' refers to the June 1, 2009, public workshop held in
Washington, DC, to discuss the proposed Disclosure Document and
other aspects of the Business Opportunity Rule.
``Workshop Notice'' refers to the Federal Register Notice announcing
the Workshop, 74 FR 18712 (Apr. 24, 2009).

I. Introduction

A. Overview of the Franchise Rule and the Evolution of the Interim
Business Opportunity Rule

1. The Franchise Rule
On December 21, 1978, the Commission promulgated a Trade Regulation
Rule entitled ``Disclosure Requirements and Prohibitions Concerning
Franchising and Business Opportunity Ventures'' (the ``Original
Franchise Rule''), to address deceptive and unfair practices in the
sale of franchises and business opportunity ventures.\1\ The Original
Franchise Rule covered, in a single Code of Federal Regulations part,
both franchises and certain business opportunity ventures. With
franchises, the franchisee sells goods or services that are associated
with the franchisor's trademark, and the franchisee is subject to
significant control by, or receives significant assistance from, the
franchisor. The franchisee typically distributes goods or services
supplied by the seller or an affiliate and receives accounts or
locations in which to conduct the business. By contrast, business
opportunities often do not involve a trademark. Vending machines or
rack display routes are typical examples of business opportunities.
Based upon the original rulemaking record, the Commission found that
unfair and deceptive practices were widespread in the sale of
franchises and business opportunities, causing serious economic harm to
consumers.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\1\ 43 FR 59614 (Dec. 21, 1978).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Commission adopted the Original Franchise Rule to prevent
unfair and deceptive practices in the sale of franchises and business
opportunities through pre-sale disclosure of specified items of
material information. The purpose of the Original Franchise Rule was
neither to regulate the substantive terms of a franchise or business
opportunity agreement nor to regulate the relationship between the
seller and the buyer. Rather, it was to ensure that sellers disclose
material information to prospective buyers. The Original Franchise Rule
was posited on the notion that a fully informed prospective buyer can
determine whether a particular offering is in his or her best interest.
The Original Franchise Rule required extensive disclosures on a
score of specified topics, such as, information about the seller; the
business background of the seller's principals and their litigation and
bankruptcy histories; the terms and conditions of

[[Page 76817]]

the offer; statistical analyses of existing franchised and company-
owned outlets; information about prior purchasers, including the names
and addresses of at least 10 purchasers nearest the prospective buyer;
and audited financial statements.
The Commission recognized that requiring these extensive
disclosures would likely impose significant compliance costs on
businesses covered by the Original Franchise Rule. It therefore sought
to strike the proper balance between prospective purchasers' need for
pre-sale disclosure and the burden imposed on those selling business
ventures covered by the Rule. To achieve this balance, the Commission
limited the scope of the Original Franchise Rule's coverage in three
significant ways.
First, the Original Franchise Rule covered only those opportunities
that required a purchaser to make a payment of at least $500 within the
first six months of operation. In transactions where a purchaser may
incur high financial losses if the seller withholds material
information, the benefit for prospective purchasers of the Original
Franchise Rule's pre-sale disclosure requirements outweighs the
sellers' cost to make those disclosures. By contrast, when the
investment required to purchase a business opportunity is comparatively
small, prospective purchasers face a relatively small financial risk.
In such circumstances, compliance costs may outweigh the benefits of
pre-sale disclosure. Therefore, the Original Franchise Rule did not
reach opportunities that charged lower fees.
Second, the ``inventory exemption'' excluded certain types of
payments from the Original Franchise Rule's $500 minimum cost
threshold. The ``inventory exemption'' is the franchise industry's
shorthand term for the Commission's determination that, as a matter of
policy, voluntary purchases of reasonable amounts of inventory at bona
fide wholesale prices for resale do not count toward the required
threshold payment. An important consequence of this policy
determination was to eliminate from Original Franchise Rule coverage
many pyramid marketing plans because purchasers of such plans typically
do not make a required payment of or exceeding $500, but instead make
voluntary purchases of inventory in reasonable amounts and at bona fide
wholesale prices for resale.
Third, in addition to franchise opportunities, the Commission
focused the Original Franchise Rule on the types of business
opportunities that the record showed were likely to result in
significant consumer injury, such as vending machines, rack displays,
and similar opportunities, which frequently were sold through deceptive
conduct. A feature common to these types of opportunities was the
promise of assistance in securing locations or accounts. Thus, the
Commission incorporated this characteristic into the Original Franchise
Rule's definitional elements to ensure coverage of demonstrably
injurious schemes. Other forms of assistance that business opportunity
sellers frequently offer--such as training and the buy-back and resale
of goods assembled by the purchaser (an element of many craft assembly
opportunities) did not bring a business opportunity within the scope of
the Original Franchise Rule's coverage.
In addition to these limits on the scope of the Original Franchise
Rule's coverage--driven by balancing prospective purchasers' need for
pre-sale disclosure against the burden imposed on business opportunity
sellers--another aspect of the Original Franchise Rule's language
further limited the scope of coverage. Specifically, the Original
Franchise Rule provided that a business opportunity was covered only if
the purchaser of the opportunity sells goods or services directly to
end-users other than the business opportunity seller. The effect of
this limitation was to exclude many work-at-home opportunities--such as
envelope stuffing and craft assembly ventures--from Original Franchise
Rule coverage. In those opportunities, the purchaser typically performs
work for the seller or produces various goods for the seller, who then
purportedly distributes them to end-users.
In 1995, as part of its systematic review of FTC rules, the
Commission published in the Federal Register a request for comment on
the Original Franchise Rule to determine its continued effectiveness
and impact.\2\ Based upon the comments received during the rule review,
the Commission tentatively determined to retain the Original Franchise
Rule, but sought additional comment on possible amendments. To that
end, in February 1997, the Commission published an ANPR, seeking
comment on various issues, including whether the Commission should
separate the disclosure requirements for business opportunities from
those for franchises.\3\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\2\ 60 FR 17656 (Apr. 7, 1995).
\3\ 62 FR 9115 (Feb. 28, 1997).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Based upon comments responding to the ANPR, the Commission found
that the Original Franchise Rule continued to serve a vital purpose and
that pre-sale disclosure was necessary to protect purchasers of
franchises and business opportunities from fraudulent and deceptive
sales practices. At the same time, however, the Commission agreed with
the overwhelming view of the commenters who suggested that there are
material differences between franchises and business opportunities and
that these two types of distinct business arrangements require separate
disclosure approaches. For example, many of the Original Franchise
Rule's pre-sale disclosures, in particular those pertaining to the
structure of the parties' relationship, do not apply to the sale of
most business opportunities because those sales typically involve
comparatively simple contracts. In addition, the Commission recognized
that the Original Franchise Rule's detailed disclosure obligations may
create barriers to entry for legitimate business opportunity
sellers.\4\ Accordingly, in 1999, the Commission announced its
intention to conduct a separate rulemaking proceeding for business
opportunity sales.\5\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\4\ 64 FR 57296 (Oct. 22, 1999).
\5\ Id.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

2. The Interim Business Opportunity Rule
Much of the information revealed by the Commission's regulatory
review of the Original Franchise Rule highlighted the differences
between franchises and business opportunity ventures, and the distinct
regulatory challenges presented by these two types of offerings--that
franchises typically are expensive and involve complex contractual
licensing relationships, while business opportunity sales are generally
less costly and involve comparatively simple purchase agreements that
pose less of a financial risk to purchasers. Based on the record
amassed during the review proceeding, the Commission concluded that the
Original Franchise Rule's extensive disclosure requirements imposed
unnecessary compliance costs on both business opportunity sellers and
buyers, and determined to bifurcate the Original Franchise Rule into
two separate parts--one covering the sale of business format franchises
\6\ and one to govern the sale of business opportunities. Accordingly,
in the ANPR, the Commission solicited

[[Page 76818]]

comment on several proposed regulatory modifications, including the
creation of a separate trade regulation rule governing the sale of
business opportunities.\7\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\6\ The industry term ``business format franchise'' specifically
refers to franchises in which franchisees operate under a common
trademark or other commercial symbol and are required to adhere to
the specific business format or method of doing business prescribed
by the franchisor. Business format franchises are commonly called
``franchises'' by the general public, and the two terms are used
interchangeably here.
\7\ 62 FR at 9115. In response to the ANPR, the Commission
received 166 written comments. The staff also held six public
workshops on the issues raised in the comments, three of which
specifically addressed business opportunities.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Subsequently, the Commission completed all procedural steps
prescribed by Section 18 of the FTC Act to finalize the Amended
Franchise Rule, along with a Statement of Basis and Purpose, in March
2007.\8\ At that time, the Amended Franchise Rule--no longer covering
business opportunities--was codified at Part 436 in Title 16 of the
CFR. The Original Franchise Rule with all definitional elements and
references regarding business format franchising deleted, was retained
and redesignated as Part 437. Part 437 was titled the ``interim
Business Opportunity Rule.'' \9\ The interim Business Opportunity Rule
contained no new substantive disclosure requirements or prohibitions,
and in all material respects was substantially identical to the
Original Franchise Rule. Until the final Rule becomes effective, Part
437 governs sales of non-franchise business opportunities.\10\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\8\ 72 FR 15444 (Mar. 30, 2007).
\9\ For example, references to ``franchisor'' and ``franchisee''
used in the Original Franchise Rule were changed in the interim
Business Opportunity Rule to ``business opportunity seller'' and
``business opportunity purchaser,'' and the Original Franchise
Rule's definition of ``franchise'' was changed to ``business
opportunity.'' See id.
\10\ 73 FR 16111, 16112 (Mar. 26, 2008).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

B. Rule Amendment Proceedings

1. Initial Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Initial Proposed Business
Opportunity Rule
In 2006, having determined that a separate business opportunity
rule was necessary, the Commission published an Initial Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking (``INPR''), announcing its intention to proceed
with its proposal for a separate Business Opportunity Rule (the
``initial proposed Business Opportunity Rule'' or ``IPBOR'').\11\ The
INPR proposed to amend the interim Business Opportunity Rule by
updating it, streamlining it, and expanding its scope of coverage.\12\
The IPBOR contained an expansive definition of ``business opportunity''
that encompassed business opportunities previously covered by the
Original Franchise Rule as well as work-at home, medical billing, and
multi-level marketing (MLM) \13\ operations. It also eliminated the
$500 threshold for Rule coverage.\14\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\11\ 71 FR 19054 (Apr. 12, 2006).
\12\ The INPR also specified the process the Commission would
follow in amending the Business Opportunity Rule. Pursuant to the
Commission's Rules of Practice, 16 CFR 1.20, the Commission
determined to use a modified version of the rulemaking process set
forth in section 1.13 of those Rules. Specifically, the Commission
announced that it would publish a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking,
with a 60-day comment period, followed by a 40-day rebuttal period.
In addition, pursuant to Section 18(c) of the FTC Act, the
Commission announced that it would hold hearings with cross-
examination and rebuttal submissions only if an interested party
requested a hearing. The Commission also stated that, if requested
to do so, it would contemplate holding one or more informal public
workshops in lieu of hearings. Finally, pursuant to 16 CFR 1.13(f),
the Commission announced that staff would issue a Report on the
Business Opportunity Rule (``Staff Report''), which would be subject
to additional public comment. 71 FR at 19079-80.
\13\ Multi-level marketing is one form of direct selling, and
refers to a business model in which a company distributes products
through a network of distributors who earn income from their own
retail sales of the product and from retail sales made by the
distributors' direct and indirect recruits. Because they earn a
commission from the sales their recruits make, each member in the
MLM network has an incentive to continue recruiting additional sales
representatives into their ``down lines.'' See Peter J. Vander Nat &
William W. Keep, Marketing Fraud: An Approach to Differentiating
Multilevel Marketing from Pyramid Schemes, 21 J. Pub. Pol'y &
Marketing 140 (Spring 2002).
\14\ Promoters of business opportunities were able to evade
coverage under the Original Franchise Rule and the interim Business
Opportunity Rule by pricing their offerings opportunities below
$500, the monetary threshold of coverage.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Streamlining the interim Business Opportunity Rule and tailoring it
to fit business opportunities (as opposed to business format
franchises) has been a primary focus of this proceeding. Both the
Original Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule
require extensive disclosures covering over twenty specified topics. In
the INPR, the Commission recognized that these extensive disclosure
requirements entail disproportionate compliance costs for sellers of
comparatively low-cost business opportunity ventures.\15\ Therefore,
the Commission proposed to mitigate the compliance burden by
simplifying and streamlining the disclosure requirements.\16\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\15\ 71 FR at 19057.
\16\ Id.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Specifically, the INPR proposed a one-page business opportunity
pre-sale disclosure document (the ``initial proposed disclosure
document'') with only six required material disclosures.\17\ The
initial proposed disclosure document was intended to provide
prospective purchasers with essential material information they could
use in making a purchase decision. The INPR proposed to require sellers
to use the exact form and language set forth by the Commission and to
include information regarding (1) the seller; (2) earnings claims; (3)
legal actions involving the offered business and its key personnel; (4)
the existence of cancellation or refund policies; (5) the number of
cancellation or refund requests; and (6) references.\18\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\17\ 71 FR at 19091.
\18\ 71 FR at 19068.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

In response to the INPR, the Commission received more than 17,000
comments, the overwhelming majority of which came from individuals
active in the MLM industry.\19\ MLM companies, their representatives
and trade associations, as well as individual participants in various
MLM plans, expressed grave concern about the burdens the IPBOR would
impose on them and urged the Commission to exclude them from the scope
of the IPBOR, to implement various safe harbor provisions, and to
reduce the required disclosures.\20\ The Commission also received
approximately 187 comments, primarily from individual consumers or
consumer groups, in favor of the IPBOR.\21\ Only a handful of comments
came from non-MLM companies and industry groups, expressing various
concerns about obligations that the IPBOR would impose upon them.\22\
None of the comments addressed the form of the initial proposed
disclosure document.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\19\ Comments responding to the INPR are available at https://www.ftc.gov/os/comments/businessopprule/index.shtm. References to
INPR comments are cited herein as: Name of the commenter-INPR (e.g.,
Avon-INPR).
\20\ Thousands of comments were form letters submitted by
participants in various MLM programs. 73 FR at 16113.
\21\ Numerous letters came from individuals having negative
experiences with various MLMs. 73 FR at 16113 n.37.
\22\ 73 FR at 16113.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

2. The Revised Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Revised Proposed
Business Opportunity Rule
Based on an extensive review of the comments received in response
to the INPR and the Commission's law enforcement history, the
Commission issued a revised Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (``RNPR'') on
March 28, 2008, that set forth a revised proposed Rule (the ``Revised
Proposed Business Opportunity Rule'' or ``RPBOR'') that was more
narrowly tailored than the IPBOR.\23\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\23\ Id. at 16110.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

In the RNPR, the Commission recognized that there were two main
problems with the IPBOR's breadth of coverage. First, the IPBOR would
have unintentionally swept in numerous commercial arrangements,
including

[[Page 76819]]

retail product distribution, training and/or educational organizations,
where there was little or no evidence that fraud was occurring.\24\
Recognizing this legitimate concern, the Commission, in the RNPR,
proposed to narrow the definition of ``business opportunity.''
Specifically, the RPBOR provided that the ``required payment'' prong of
the business opportunity definition would not include payments for the
purchase of reasonable amounts of inventory at bona fide wholesale
prices; \25\ eliminated as an element of the business opportunity
definition the making of an earnings claim; \26\ and narrowed the types
of ``business assistance'' that would trigger the business opportunity
definition to just those types of assistance that are the hallmark of
business opportunity fraud: Location, account, and ``buy-back''
assistance.\27\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\24\ Id. As one commenter described it, the IPBOR would have
swept in traditional arrangements for distribution of ``food and
beverages, construction equipment, manufactured homes, electronic
components, computer systems, medical supplies and equipment,
automotive parts, automotive tools and other tools, petroleum
products, industrial chemicals, office supplies and equipment, and
magazines.'' IBA-INPR at 5; see also Timberland-INPR (noting that
numerous manufacturers structure their retail distribution in this
manner).
\25\ This amendment was based on concerns raised by some
commenters that if a ``required payment'' did not exclude the
purchase of inventory, many traditional product distribution
arrangements could be brought within the scope of the Rule. 73 FR at
16113.
\26\ This amendment was based on concerns raised by some
commenters that a broad range of commercial arrangements easily
would fall under the business opportunity definition if the company
made some representation about sales or profits sufficient to
constitute an earnings claim. Id. at 16114; see also infra Section
III.A.3.
\27\ Id. at 16123. The Commission eliminated two additional
types of assistance that would have triggered the Rule's strictures
and disclosure obligations--tracking payments and providing
training.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Second, the Commission determined that the IPBOR was unworkable
with respect to MLMs and would have imposed greater burdens on the MLM
industry than other types of business opportunity sellers without
sufficient countervailing benefits to consumers. After careful
consideration of the record, the Commission decided to narrow the scope
of the RPBOR to avoid broadly sweeping in all sellers of MLM
opportunities. This decision was based on the overwhelming majority of
the approximately 17,000 comments that argued that the IPBOR failed to
differentiate between unlawful pyramid schemes--which the Commission
intended to cover--and legitimate companies using an MLM model.
Finally, the RPBOR eliminated two disclosures that would have been
required by the IPBOR--information about legal actions pertaining to a
business opportunity seller's sales personnel, and the number of
cancellation or refund requests the seller received.\28\ Eliminating
the disclosure of legal actions involving sales employees was based on
the Commission's recognition that the burden of collecting litigation
histories for every sales person was not outweighed by the
corresponding benefit to prospective purchasers.\29\ With respect to
the disclosure of the number of cancellation or refund requests
received, the Commission determined that such disclosure was not
useful, and further, may have had the perverse effect of discouraging
legitimate businesses from offering refunds.\30\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\28\ Id. at 16125.
\29\ Id.
\30\ Id.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

The RNPR sought public comment on issues relevant to the
Commission's consideration of the RPBOR, including whether the RPBOR
would adequately accomplish the Commission's stated purpose of
protecting consumers against fraud and, if it did not, what
alternatives the Commission could consider.\31\ In contrast to the
INPR, which generated more than 17,000 comments, the Commission
received fewer than 125 comments and rebuttal comments in response to
the RNPR.\32\ Again, however, the vast majority of commenters were from
the MLM industry, but this time they supported the Commission's
proposal to narrow the scope of the Business Opportunity Rule, albeit
with suggestions for fine-tuning.\33\ It is noteworthy that only one
comment came from a business opportunity seller.\34\ The Commission
also received comments from two consumer groups \35\ and approximately
twelve individuals \36\ who expressed their disappointment that the
FTC's proposed rule would exclude MLMs from coverage.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\31\ Id. at 16133.
\32\ Comments responding to the RNPR are available at https://www.ftc.gov/os/comments/bizoprevised/index.shtm. References to RNPR
comments are cited herein as: Name of commenter-RNPR.
\33\ Some commenters suggested changes to the language of
certain definitions proposed in the RNPR to ensure that the multi-
level marketing industry was not inadvertently swept into the ambit
of the rule. See, e.g., DSA-RNPR; Babener-RNPR; IBA-RNPR.
\34\ Planet Antares-RNPR.
\35\ The two consumer groups are the Consumer Awareness
Institute (``CAI'') and Pyramid Scheme Alert (``PSA'').
\36\ Some letters came from individuals having negative
experiences with MLMs.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

3. Consumer Testing of Disclosure Document and Public Workshop
In the RNPR, the Commission announced that it had retained a
consultant to assess the proposed disclosure document, with the
objective of achieving the proper format and content for communicating
material information to consumers. Following publication of the RNPR,
Macro International, Inc. (``Macro''), the FTC's consultant, conducted
extensive consumer testing of the initial proposed disclosure document
that resulted in substantial improvement to both the layout and the
wording of the form.\37\ The Commission made Macro's report as well as
the revised proposed Business Opportunity Disclosure Document
(``revised proposed disclosure document'') \38\ public in a Federal
Register Notice (``Workshop Notice'') that also announced a one-day
public workshop in Washington, DC.\39\ The Workshop Notice focused on
whether the revised proposed disclosure document was an effective means
of conveying material information to prospective purchasers of business
opportunities. The Workshop Notice also sought comment to further
develop the public record on issues that had been raised in the
comments received in response to the RNPR. Five individuals who
represented a range of interests in the proposed Rule were chosen to
participate as panelists, including a federal law enforcer, a state law
enforcer, a consumer advocate, the general counsel of a national multi-
level marketing company, and a former director of the FTC's Bureau of
Consumer Protection.\40\ Staff convened the public workshop with these
five panelists in Washington, DC, on June 1, 2009. At the conclusion of
the workshop discussion of the revised proposed disclosure document,
panelists and audience members were invited to express their views
about other issues related to the RPBOR.\41\ Following

[[Page 76820]]

robust discussion on various topics, the Commission received follow-up
written comment from six individuals and entities.\42\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\37\ A copy of the expert's report to the FTC, ``Design and
Testing of Business Opportunity Disclosures,'' (``Macro Report'') is
available at https://www.ftc.gov/bcp/workshops/bizopps/disclosure-form-report.pdf.
\38\ The version of the revised proposed disclosure document
that was tested by Macro inadvertently omitted the phrase ``or pay
any money'' from the conclusion of the penultimate sentence of the
revised proposed disclosure document. Macro determined that this
omission had no effect on the results of its testing. See Macro
Report at 2.
\39\ See 74 FR 18712 (Apr. 24, 2009).
\40\ Commission staff selected individuals as panelists based
upon their comments, backgrounds, and interest in the subject
matter.
\41\ A copy of the transcript of the June 1, 2009 workshop is
available at https://www.ftc.gov/bcp/workshops/bizopps/index.shtml.
References to the transcript from the June 2009 Business Opportunity
Rule public workshop are cited herein as: Name of commenter, June 09
Tr at page no. (e.g., Jost, June 09 Tr at 12).
\42\ Comments received in response to the Workshop Notice are
available at https://www.ftc.gov/os/comments/bizoprulerevwrkshp/index.shtm. References to workshop comments are cited herein as:
Name of commenter-Workshop.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

4. Staff Report
Pursuant to the Rule amendment process announced in the INPR, the
Commission's Bureau of Consumer Protection issued a Staff Report on the
Business Opportunity Rule in November 2010.\43\ The Staff Report
explained in detail the history of the Rule amendment proceeding and
summarized the issues raised during the various notice and comment
periods, particularly those raised in response to the RNPR. It also
addressed the public workshop discussion and subsequent comments, as
well as additional issues that the staff raised on its own initiative,
based on the Commission's law enforcement experience.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\43\ See Bureau of Consumer Protection, Staff Report to the
Federal Trade Commission and Proposed Revised Trade Regulation Rule
(16 CFR Part 437) (Nov. 2010) (``Staff Report''). The Staff Report
is available at https://www.ftc.gov/os/fedreg/2010/october/101028businessopportunitiesstaffreport.pdf. In November, the
Commission published a notice in the Federal Register announcing the
availability of, and seeking comment on, the Staff Report. See 75 FR
68559 (Nov. 8, 2010).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twenty-seven comments were submitted in response to the Staff
Report,\44\ including eleven comments submitted by consumer group
Consumer Awareness Institute (``CAI''). The Commission also received
comments from the Department of Justice (``DOJ''), the Direct Selling
Association (``DSA''), MLM companies,\45\ one franchise lead generator,
a consumer group named Pyramid Scheme Alert (``PSA''), and ten
individuals. A few commenters suggested changes to some of the Rule's
definitions and the scope of coverage,\46\ while others encouraged the
Commission to adopt the Rule as recommended in the Staff Report.\47\
The majority of comments submitted by individuals, and the comments
submitted by CAI and PSA, opposed the Commission's decision to narrow
the scope of the Rule to avoid broadly sweeping in MLMs.\48\ In
crafting the final Rule, the Commission has carefully considered the
comments received in response to the Staff Report and throughout the
Rule amendment proceeding.\49\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\44\ Comments received in response to the Staff Report are
available at https://www.ftc.gov/os/comments/bizoppstaffreport/index.shtm. References to Staff Report comments are cited herein as:
Name of commenter--Staff Report.
\45\ Comments on behalf of the MLM industry were submitted by
Tupperware and Primerica.
\46\ E.g., Dub-Staff Report; Tupperware-Staff Report.
\47\ DOJ-Staff Report; Primerica-Staff Report; DSA-Staff Report.
\48\ E.g., CAI-Staff Report; PSA-Staff-Report; O'Handley-Staff
Report; Brooks-Staff Report; Johnson-Staff Report.
\49\ The Staff Report comments addressing specific provisions of
the Rule are discussed within the substantive discussions on the
relevant provisions. The comments regarding MLMs are discussed in
Subsection C.1.c below, addressing the Commission's decision to
exclude MLMs from coverage.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

C. Overview of the Final Rule

The final Rule significantly modifies the scope, disclosure
requirements, and prohibitions of the interim Business Opportunity
Rule. This proceeding was, in major part, prompted by the recognition
that the interim Business Opportunity Rule's extensive disclosure
requirements are ill-suited to many business opportunities and place
unnecessary compliance costs on both business opportunity sellers and
buyers. Similarly, commenters have observed that business opportunities
and business format franchises are distinct business arrangements that
pose very different regulatory challenges. To account for these
differences, to avoid unnecessary compliance burdens, and to ensure
that consumers are best protected against deceptive practices in the
sale of business opportunities, the Commission has amended the interim
Rule to:
(1) Expand its scope to cover many business opportunities that were
not covered under the interim Business Opportunity Rule;
(2) Streamline pre-sale disclosures;
(3) Prohibit various specific misrepresentations and other
misleading practices often engaged in by fraudulent business
opportunity sellers; and
(4) Require that for offers conducted in Spanish or other languages
besides English, that the disclosures be provided in the same language
as the offer is made. The sections that follow describe these four
aspects of the final Rule.
1. Scope of the Final Rule
The definition of ``business opportunity'' dictates the scope of
coverage under the final Rule. To ensure appropriate coverage, this
definition has been crafted to capture the sale of business
opportunities that historically have been associated with deceptive
practices. As discussed below, the final Rule (1) extends coverage to
those types of opportunities that previously were not covered under the
Original Franchise Rule and the interim Business Opportunity Rule; (2)
continues to cover business opportunities that previously were covered
under the Original Franchise Rule and interim Business Opportunity
Rule; and (3) avoids broadly sweeping in MLMs and certain other types
of arrangements that are not characterized by the deceptive and unfair
practices the final Rule aims to prevent.
a. The Final Rule Covers Many Business Opportunities That Previously
Escaped Coverage
The final Rule includes an expansive definition of ``business
opportunity'' aimed at extending the scope of the Rule to certain
business opportunities--namely work-at-home opportunities such as
envelope-stuffing, product assembly, and medical billing--that often
were not covered by the interim Business Opportunity Rule. The
Commission's law enforcement experience and complaint data show that
these types of business opportunities are sources of prevalent and
persistent problems. These opportunities, however, often escaped
coverage of the Original Franchise Rule and the interim Business
Opportunity Rule due to the following two limitations: (1) A minimum
payment threshold set at $500; and (2) coverage was limited to business
opportunities in which products were sold directly to third party end-
users, rather than back to the business opportunity seller.\50\ Each
limitation is discussed below.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\50\ 73 FR at 16112.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

First, the Original Franchise Rule and the interim Business
Opportunity Rule covered only business opportunity ventures costing
$500 or more. Ventures such as product assembly, medical billing, and
envelope stuffing, however, often require payments of less than $500
and thus were not covered by the interim Business Opportunity Rule.\51\

[[Page 76821]]

Some commenters asserted that setting the threshold for coverage at a
specific dollar amount simply provides scam operators a means to
circumvent the Rule, noting that sellers of business opportunities may
charge less than $500 to skirt the interim Business Opportunity Rule's
disclosure requirements.\52\ The Commission has concluded that the
scope of the final Rule should be broad enough to reach business
opportunities that the Commission's law enforcement history and
consumer complaints show are a widespread and persistent problem,
regardless of the price at which they are offered. Accordingly, the
final Rule eliminates the monetary threshold.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\51\ See, e.g., FTC v. Med. Billers Network, Inc., No. 05 CIV
2014 (RJH) (S.D.N.Y. 2005) ($200-$295 fee); FTC v. Sun Ray Trading,
No. Civ. 05-20402-CIV-Seitz/Bandstra (S.D. Fla. 2005) ($160 fee);
FTC v. Wholesale Mktg. Group, LLC, No. 05 CV 6485 (N.D. Ill. 2005)
($65 to $175 registration fees); FTC v. Vinyard Enters., Inc., No.
03-23291-CIV-ALTONAGA (S.D. Fla. 2003) ($139 fee); FTC v. Leading
Edge Processing, Inc., 6:02-CV-681-ORL-19 DAB (M.D. Fla. 2002) ($150
fee); FTC v. Healthcare Claims Network, Inc., No. 2:02-CV-4569 MMM
(AMWx) (C.D. Cal. 2002) ($485 fee); FTC v. Stuffingforcash.com,
Corp., No. 92 C 5022 (N.D. Ill. 2002) ($45 fee); FTC v. Kamaco
Int'l, No. CV 02-04566 LGB (RNBx) (C.D. Cal. 2002) ($42 fee); FTC v.
Medicor LLC, No. CV01-1896 (CBM) (C.D. Cal. 2001) ($375 fee); FTC v.
SkyBiz.com, No. 01-CV-0396-EA (X) (N.D. Okla. 2001) ($125 fee); FTC
v. Para-Link Int'l, No. 8:00-CV-2114-T-27E (M.D. Fla. 2000) ($395 to
$495 fee); see also Consumer Fraud in the United States: The Second
FTC Survey (October 2007) at 48, available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/2007/10/fraud.pdf (indicating a median payment for work-at-home
schemes of $200).
\52\ See 71 FR at 19079 (citing comments submitted in earlier
proceedings by NCL, SBA Advocacy, Finnigan, and Purvin).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

A second limitation to the Original Franchise Rule and the interim
Business Opportunity Rule's scope of coverage was the requirement that
the purchaser of the opportunity had to sell goods or services directly
to third party end-users--someone other than the business opportunity
seller. The effect of this limitation was to exclude most work-at-home
opportunities--such as envelope stuffing and craft assembly ventures--
from coverage. Promoters of these types of opportunities often tell
prospective purchasers that they (1) will work directly for the seller
or a third party the seller identifies or (2) will produce various
goods for the seller, who will then purportedly distribute the goods to
end-users or retail markets.\53\ In order to reach these types of
business opportunities, coverage of the final Rule is not limited to
transactions where the purchaser of the opportunity sells goods or
services directly to individuals other than the business opportunity
seller.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\53\ E.g., FTC v. Darling Angel Pin Creations, Inc., No. 8:10-
cv-00335-JSM-TGW (M.D. Fla. Feb. 2010); FTC v. Indep. Mktg. Exch.
Inc., No. 1:10-cv-00568-NLH-KMW (D.N.J. Feb. 2010); FTC v. Preferred
Platinum Svcs. Network LLC, No. 3:10-cv-00538-MLC-LHG (D.N.J. Feb.
2010).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

b. The Final Rule Continues To Cover Those Types of Opportunities
Covered Under the Original Franchise Rule and the Interim Business
Opportunity Rule
In addition to those types of business opportunities that often
evaded coverage under the Original Franchise Rule and Interim Business
Opportunity Rule, the final Rule continues to cover the types of
business opportunities that previously had been covered, such as
vending machine opportunities, rack display opportunities, and similar
arrangements. The Commission's law enforcement experience demonstrates
that sales of these types of opportunities are fraught with unfair and
deceptive practices, in particular, false or unsubstantiated earnings
claims. Indeed, such practices are widespread in promotion and sale of
such business opportunities. Since 1995, the Commission has brought
over 80 law enforcement actions \54\ in connection with more than ten
law enforcement sweeps \55\ that targeted business opportunity scams
involving the sale of vending machines,\56\ rack displays,\57\ public
telephones,\58\ Internet kiosks,\59\ and 900-number ventures,\60\ among
others. These persistent scams will continue to be covered under the
final Rule.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\54\ In bringing these FTC law enforcement actions, the FTC
partnered with sister federal agencies--such as the DOJ and the
United States Postal Inspection Service--and with the various state
attorneys general, including the District of Columbia. Thus, these
``sweeps'' entailed many more actions besides those brought by the
FTC.
\55\ E.g., Project Fal$e Hope$, see FTC News Release: Federal,
State Law Enforcers Complete Bogus Business Opportunity Sweep (Dec.
12, 2006), available at https://www.ftc.gov/os/caselist/projectfalsehopes.shtm; Project Biz Opp Flop, see FTC News Release:
Criminal and Civil Enforcement Agencies Launch Major Assault Against
Promoters of Business Opportunity and Work-at-Home Schemes (Feb. 22,
2005), available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/2005/02/bizoppflop.htm;
Project Busted Opportunity, see FTC News Release: State, Federal Law
Enforcers Launch Sting on Business Opportunity, Work-at-Home Scams
(June 20, 2002), available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/2002/06/bizopswe.shtm; Project Biz-illion$, see FTC News Release: State-
Federal Crackdown on Phony Business Opportunities Intensifies (March
6, 2000), available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/2000/03/biz.shtm;
Operation Money Pit, see FTC News Release: ``Operation Money Pit''
Targets Fraudulent Business Opportunity Schemes (Feb. 20, 1998),
available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/1998/02/moneypit.shtm; Project
Vend Up Broke, see FTC News Release: FTC Announces ``Operation Vend
Up Broke'' (Sept. 3, 1998), available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/1998/09/vendup2.shtm; Project Trade Name Games, see FTC News
Release: Display Racks for Trade-Named Toys and Trinkets rre Lastest
in Business Opportunity Fraud Schemes (Aug. 5, 1997), available at
https://www.ftc.gov/opa/1997/08/tradenam.shtm; Operation Missed
Fortune FTC News Release: Operation Missed Fortune (Nov. 13, 1996),
available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/1996/11/misdfort.shtm; Project
Telesweep, see FTC News Release: Major State-Fed Crackdown Targets
Business Opportunity Scam ``Epidemic'' (July 18, 1995), available at
https://www.ftc.gov/opa/1995/07/scam.shtm. Recent law enforcement
sweeps ``Operation Bottom Dollar'' and ``Operation Short Change,''
challenged, among other things, ``work-at-home'' opportunities. See
FTC News Release: FTC Cracks Down on Scammers Trying to Take
Advantage of the Economic Downturn (Feb. 17, 2010), available at
https://www.ftc.gov/opa/2010/02/bottomdollar.shtm; FTC News Release:
FTC Targets Scams Spawned by Economic Downturn (July 1, 2009),
available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/2009/07/shortchange.shtm.
\56\ See, e.g., United States v. Lifestyle Vending, Inc., No.
CV-06-6421 (E.D.N.Y. 2006); FTC v. Am. Entm't Distribs., Inc., No.
04-22431-CIV-Huck (2004); FTC v. Inspired Ventures, Inc., No. 02-
21760-CIV-Jordan (S.D. Fla. 2002); FTC v. Essex Mktg. Group, Inc.,
No. 2:02-cv-03415-TCP-AKT (E.D.N.Y 2002); United States v. Univend,
LLC, No. 02-0433-P-L (S.D. Ala. 2002); FTC v. Pathway Merch., Inc.,
No. 01-CIV-8987 (S.D.N.Y. 2001); United States v. Photo Vend Int'l,
Inc., No. 98-6935-CIV-Ferguson (S.D. Fla. 1998); FTC v. Hi Tech Mint
Sys., Inc., No. 98 CIV 5881 (JES) (S.D.N.Y. 1998); FTC v. Claude A.
Blanc, Jr., No. 2:92-CV-129-WCO (N.D. Ga. 1992); see also FTC News
Release: FTC Announces ``Operation Vend Up Broke'' (Sept. 3, 1998),
available at https://www.ftc.gov/opa/1998/09/vendup2.shtm (FTC and 10
states announce 40 enforcement actions against fraudulent vending
business opportunities).
\57\ See, e.g., United States v. Elite Designs, Inc., No. CA 05
058 (D.R.I. 2005); United States. v. QX Int'l, No. 398-CV-0453-D
(N.D. Tex. 1998); FTC v. Carousel of Toys, No. 97-8587-CIV-Ungaro-
Benages (S.D. Fla. 1997); FTC v. Raymond Urso, No. 97-2680-CIV-
Ungaro-Benages (S.D. Fla. 1997); FTC v. Infinity Multimedia, Inc.,
No. 96-6671-CIV-Gonzalez (S.D. Fla. 1996); FTC v. O'Rourke, No. 93-
6511-CIV-Ferguson (S.D. Fla. 1993); see also FTC News Release:
Display Racks for Trade-Named Toys and Trinkets are the Latest in
Business Opportunity Fraud Schemes (Aug. 5, 1997), available at
https://www.ftc.gov/opa/1997/08/tradenam.htm (FTC and 8 states filed
18 enforcement actions against sellers of bogus display
opportunities that use trademarks of well-known companies).
\58\ See, e.g., FTC v. Advanced Pub. Commc'ns Corp., No. 00-
00515-CIV-Ungaro-Benages (S.D. Fla. 2000); FTC v. Ameritel Payphone
Distribs., Inc., No. 00-0514-CIV-Gold (S.D. Fla. 2000); FTC v.
ComTel Commc'ns Global Network, Inc., No. 96- 3134-CIV-Highsmith
(S.D. Fla. 1996); FTC v. Intellipay, Inc., No. H92 2325 (S.D. Tex.
1992).
\59\ See, e.g., FTC v. Bikini Vending Corp., No. CV- S-05-0439-
LDG-RJJ (D. Nev. 2005); FTC v. Network Serv. Depot, Inc., No. CV-S0-
05-0440- LDG-LRL (D. Nev. 2005); United States v. Am. Merch. Tech.,
No. 05-20443-CIV-Huck (S.D. Fla. 2005); FTC v. Hart Mktg. Enter.
Ltd., Inc., No. 98-222-CIV-T-23 E (M.D. Fla. 1998); see also FTC v.
FutureNet, Inc., No. CV-98-1113 GHK (BQRx) (C.D. Cal. 1998); FTC v.
TouchNet, Inc., No. C98-0176 (W.D. Wash. 1998).
\60\ See, e.g., FTC v. Bureau 2000 Int'l, Inc., No. 2:96-cv-
01473-WMB-RC (C.D. Cal. 1996); FTC v. Genesis One Corp., No. CV-96-
1516-MRP (MCX) (C.D. Cal. 1996); FTC v. Innovative Telemedia, Inc.,
No. 96- 8140-CIV-Ferguson (S.D. Fla. 1996); FTC v. Ad-Com Int'l, No.
96-1472 LGB (VAP) (C.D. Cal. 1996).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

c. The Final Rule Avoids Broadly Sweeping in MLMs
The final Rule's definition of business opportunity avoids broadly
sweeping in all sellers of MLM opportunities.\61\ The decision in the
RPBOR to exclude MLMs from the scope of the Rule's coverage was based
on the overwhelming majority of the approximately 17,000 comments that
argued that the IPBOR failed to differentiate between unlawful pyramid

[[Page 76822]]

schemes--which the Commission intended to cover--and legitimate
companies using an MLM model.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\61\ See 73 FR at 16120.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

As detailed more fully in the RNPR, several common themes emerged
from the numerous comments submitted by the MLM industry. Many
commenters suggested that the low economic risks of participating in a
typical MLM do not justify imposing burdensome regulations that would
threaten to strangle the MLM industry.\62\ These commenters focused on
the low fees--often less than $100--that top MLM companies charge
prospective distributors for the right to sell their products, and on
the relatively low risk that consumers would lose money on large
purchases of inventory.\63\ In addition, industry commenters contended
that the various disclosure requirements were ill-suited for the MLM
business model and that many of the disclosure obligations would show
direct selling companies in a distorting negative light.\64\ For
example, according to one commenter, the requirement to disclose prior
legal actions would cast successful and long-established companies in a
worse light than fly-by-night frauds simply because larger companies
with more sales representatives and more years of operation are likely
to get involved in a larger number of lawsuits.\65\ Moreover, industry
commenters uniformly asserted that the cost of compliance with the
IPBOR would be extremely high for them--first, from the burden of
developing, providing and keeping records of proposed disclosures, and
second, from the impaired ability to recruit prospective
distributors.\66\ Finally, industry commenters argued that unlike
traditional business opportunities, the MLM industry is not permeated
with fraud.\67\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\62\ Id. at 16114.
\63\ Id.
\64\ Id. at 16115.
\65\ Id.
\66\ Id. at 16116.
\67\ Id. at 16114.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

In contrast to the overwhelming majority of comments that opposed
regulating MLMs through the Business Opportunity Rule, only a small
minority of commenters were in favor of a rule that would cover MLMs.
These commenters included two consumer groups, CAI and PSA, a few
consumer advocates, individuals who regretted becoming involved in
MLMs, and other MLM participants.\68\ Many of the consumer advocates
contended that the MLM industry is comprised primarily of pyramid
schemes masquerading as legitimate companies.\69\ The commenters also
asserted that MLMs deceptively market their distributorships as a low-
risk opportunity with high earnings potential, when in fact, the costs
of participating in an MLM can be high and the earnings comparatively
small.\70\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\68\ Id. at 16116.
\69\ CAI-INPR at 2 (``I can certify that MLM (sic) are not
direct selling programs, but chain selling programs''); CAI-INPR
Rebuttal of DSA Comments at 3 (``The Direct Selling Association
(DSA), recently taken over by chain sellers now promotes chain
selling (pyramid marketing)--even more than legitimate direct
selling''); see also Brooks-INPR at 2 (``In my opinion, most MLM
firms operate in a deceptive or fraudulent manner'').
\70\ PSA-INPR at 3-4; Brooks-INPR at 4; Johnson-INPR at 1.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

In the RNPR, the Commission concluded that although there is
significant concern that some pyramid schemes may masquerade as
legitimate MLMs, assessing the incidence of such practices is difficult
and indeed, determining whether an MLM is a pyramid scheme requires a
fact-intensive, case-by-case analysis. Further, the record developed
was insufficient as a basis for crafting MLM disclosures that would
effectively help consumers make an informed decision about the risks of
joining a particular MLM.
Based on the record and the Commission's law enforcement
experience, the RNPR announced the Commission's determination that it
would not be practicable to apply the requirements of the proposed Rule
to MLM companies. Drawing on its law enforcement experience, the
Commission acknowledged that some MLMs do engage in unfair or deceptive
acts or practices, including operating pyramid schemes or making
unsubstantiated earnings claims that cause consumer harm. The
Commission, however, was not persuaded that workable, meaningful
disclosures could be devised that would help consumers identify a
fraudulent pyramid scheme. This being the case, the Commission decided
that the proposed Rule was too blunt an instrument to alleviate fraud
in the sale of MLMs. The Commission therefore determined to continue to
challenge unfair or deceptive practices in the MLM industry through law
enforcement actions alleging violations of Section 5 of the FTC Act and
not through the Business Opportunity Rule. The Staff Report's
recommendations were consistent with this decision.\71\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\71\ Staff Report at 20.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

In response to the Staff Report, the Commission received 24
comments addressing the Commission's decision to narrow the scope of
the Rule to avoid broadly sweeping in MLMs. Specifically, 19 comments
opposed the Commission's decision,\72\ one commenter agreed with the
decision to narrow the scope of the Rule, but suggested modifying the
Rule to contain bright line exemptions and to clarify the definition of
``required payment,'' \73\ and two commenters advocated that the
Commission adopt the Rule as recommended.\74\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\72\ These included eleven comments submitted by consumer group
CAI, as well as comments submitted by PSA and seven individuals. In
addition, two individuals submitted comments supporting the
statistical analysis provided by CAI President, Jon Taylor. See
McKee-Staff Report; Ashby-Staff Report.
\73\ Tupperware-Staff Report.
\74\ DSA-Staff Report; Primerica-Staff Report.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Commenters opposing the decision to avoid sweeping MLMs within the
scope of the Rule's coverage set forth the same basic premise--that
MLMs frequently misrepresent the level of earnings achieved by their
distributors and therefore, should be subject to regulation.\75\ More
specifically, many of the commenters advocated that the MLM industry
should be required to disclose the average income of their
participants.\76\ The Commission has carefully considered the comments
submitted in response to the Staff Report on the issue of MLMs. While
some of the commenters provided an analysis of the MLM industry with
concrete examples of the types of problems that exist within that
industry,\77\ many did not. Instead, many commenters expressed in
general terms their low opinion of MLMs and their general opinion that
MLMs should be regulated.\78\ More to the point, none of the commenters
provided persuasive arguments for why the Business Opportunity Rule is
the proper vehicle to address the problems they identified within the
MLM industry.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\75\ See, e.g., O'Handley-Staff Report (``I personally believe
that this industry is a borderline scam at best and needs MORE
oversight than everyone else-NOT LESS.''); Welling-Staff Report (``I
find it amazing that * * * the MLM industry has little or no
regulations.'').
\76\ See, e.g., Barrett-Staff Report (FTC should ``demand
truthful disclosure of income potentials for MLM''); Brooks-Staff
Report (MLMs should produce ``actual, verifiable data concerning the
earnings and losses of their distributors''); CAI-Staff Report at 7-
3 (advocating for the disclosure of ``information supporting
earnings claims'').
\77\ See, e.g., CAI-Staff Report (reporting research on the MLM
industry and quoting representations made by various MLMs).
\78\ See, e.g., Craig-Staff Report (there is ``ample evidence of
problems with MLM to warrant inclusion in the rule''); Afoa-Staff
Report (commenting on personal experience with one MLM).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Before discussing the comments in further detail, however, one
point in the rulemaking record requires clarification. Several comments
focused on the

[[Page 76823]]

following language contained in the Staff Report: ``Two key problems
emerged with the IPBOR's breadth of coverage. First, the IPBOR would
have unintentionally swept in numerous commercial arrangements where
there is little or no evidence that fraud is occurring.'' \79\ The
commenters suggest, incorrectly, that the quoted language reveals a
finding by the Commission that there is little or no evidence of fraud
occurring within the MLM industry.\80\ This language, however, referred
to a passage from the RNPR that addressed traditional product
distribution arrangements, not MLMs.\81\ The Commission has not made a
finding that there is little or no evidence of fraud within the MLM
industry; to the contrary, it has specifically recognized, through its
own law enforcement experience, that some MLMs may be pyramid schemes
in masquerade and may make false and unsubstantiated earnings
claims.\82\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\79\ See, e.g., CAI-Staff Report at 1, 10-41; PSA-Staff Report.
\80\ CAI-Staff Report at 10-41; PSA-Staff Report (``The basis of
the exclusion appears to be the extraordinary claim that there is
insufficient evidence of widespread fraud in the multi-level
marketing field.'').
\81\ Indeed, the language quoted by CAI and PSA contains a
footnote referencing the section of the RNPR that discussed
traditional product distribution arrangements. See Staff Report at
30 (citing 73 FR at 16113).
\82\ See 73 FR at 16119; see also Staff Report at 20.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

In any event, the comments submitted in response to the Staff
Report do not persuade the Commission that the Business Opportunity
Rule is the proper tool to address these problems.\83\ Two of the
affirmative disclosure requirements illustrate the difficulty in
applying the Rule to MLMs: (1) The disclosure of substantiation for
earnings claims; and (2) the disclosure of references.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\83\ Indeed, one commenter recommended a completely separate set
of disclosures for MLM opportunities, further suggesting that the
Business Opportunity Rule is a poor fit for the MLM industry. See
Johnson-Staff Report

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.