The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) seeks to protect consumers and competition by preventing anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices through law enforcement, advocacy, and education.
The FTC is the only federal agency with both consumer protection and competition jurisdiction in broad sectors of the economy. The FTC pursues vigorous and effective law enforcement; advances consumers’ interests by sharing its expertise with federal and state legislatures and U.S. and international government agencies; develops policy and research tools through hearings, workshops, and conferences; and creates practical and plain-language educational programs for consumers and businesses in a global marketplace with constantly changing technologies. FTC’s work is performed by the Bureaus of Consumer Protection, Competition, and Economics. That work is aided by the Office of General Counsel and seven regional offices.
In Alaska, as in all states, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) plays a critical role in protecting consumers and ensuring a competitive marketplace. The FTC enforces federal consumer protection and antitrust laws, preventing anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices. While the FTC does not have specific Alaska statutes, its regulations and enforcement actions apply to businesses and consumers within the state. The FTC's jurisdiction spans across various economic sectors, allowing it to address issues ranging from false advertising to illegal mergers that could harm competition. The agency uses a combination of law enforcement, advocacy, and education to fulfill its mission. It collaborates with state legislatures, including Alaska's, to align federal and state consumer protection efforts. Additionally, the FTC provides resources and education to help Alaskan consumers recognize and report fraud and other unfair business practices. The FTC's regional offices, although not located in Alaska, serve to assist the state's consumers and businesses in understanding and complying with federal regulations.