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– The FTC has approved an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPR) under the Appliance Labeling Rule for publication in the Federal Register. As detailed in the notice, which will be published soon and is available now on the FTC’s Web site as a link to this press release, Section 325 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 provides the Commission with the authority to develop and implement energy labeling rules for consumer electronic products, including televisions. Through the ANPR, the FTC is seeking public comment on whether it should require energy use disclosures for televisions and other consumer electronic products, such as personal computers, cable or satellite set-top boxes, stand-alone digital video recorder boxes, and personal computer monitors.

Specifically, the notice describes current energy labeling requirements, presents the FTC’s new authority for consumer electronic products labeling, and requests comments on issues such as the need for labeling; energy use data; reports, studies, or research on labeling; test procedures; format, content, and placement of labels; potential retailer role in labeling; Internet disclosures; comparative information; and reporting requirements. The notice also describes how comments, which must be received by May 14, 2009, may be submitted to the Commission.

The Commission vote approving publication of the Federal Register notice was 4-0. (FTC File No. P094201; the staff contact is Hampton Newsome, Bureau of Consumer Protection, 202-326-2889.)

Copies of the documents mentioned in this release are available from the FTC’s Web site at http://www.ftc.gov and from the FTC’s Consumer Response Center, Room 130, 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20580. Call toll-free: 1-877-FTC-HELP.

(FYI 11.2009.wpd)