Washington, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim DeMint (R-S.C.) was joined by several Republican senators in sending a letter to Federal Trade Commission Chairman Jon Leibowitz urging the agency to act within its statutory authorities and provide more guidance for American industry when taking action. Senators Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), John Thune (R-N.D.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Pat Toomey (R-Penn.), and Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) all signed onto the letter.

"The FTC should operate within its statutory authority to build and maintain credibility with the public," Sen. DeMint said. "America has a 21st century marketplace, yet the FTC is authorized by laws largely reflecting the 20th and even 19th century structure of American industry. Much like the FCC, the FTC is now struggling to understand and adapt to today's dynamic market with an outdated regulatory model.

"FTC actions should primarily respond to demonstrated consumer harm. When actions are taken, better guidance for industry and consumers would provide more certainty for innovators and job creators. Today, we ask the FTC to operate with humility rather than experimentation with their existing authorities. There is simply too much uncertainty facing private enterprise, and agencies must do their part to create a climate for recovery and growth. I hope to work with Chairman Rockefeller and the majority in the upcoming Congress on FTC reauthorization."