Consumer Protection

Broadway Across America Antitrust Non-Prosecution Agreement

The DOJ Antitrust Division entered into a Non-Prosecution Agreement with Broadway Across America on March 18, 2026, resolving potential antitrust violations related to live theatrical performances. Broadway Across America is a major theater producer and distributor. The NPA imposes binding obligations on the company, though specific terms are not detailed in the source document. Companies in the theater and live entertainment sector should monitor this development and review any implications for industry practices.

United States v. Alan Hayward James - Bribery, Bid Rigging, Wire Fraud

The DOJ Antitrust Division filed criminal charges against Alan Hayward James on March 20, 2026, alleging bribery, bid rigging, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The defendant entered a plea agreement on April 1, 2026, resolving the criminal case. The violations occurred in the computer systems design services industry.

United States v. The New York and Presbyterian Hospital

The DOJ Antitrust Division filed a civil antitrust complaint against The New York and Presbyterian Hospital on March 26, 2026. The government alleges anticompetitive conduct by the hospital and is seeking appropriate relief through civil litigation. This enforcement action marks the opening of a formal antitrust case.

Bowser Busters Compliance Blitz on NSW Petrol Stations

NSW Fair Trading's Bowser Busters fuel price compliance program has conducted over 2,300 field inspections and re-inspections covering approximately 90% of NSW since March 18, 2026, issuing over 140 Penalty Infringement Notices. Over 90 PINs were issued by field inspectors for price mismatches, failures to comply with information requirements, and unregistered service stations, while Bowser Busters-supported inspectors issued an additional 57 PINs including 56 for price mismatching. Penalties include on-the-spot fines of $1,100 and court penalties up to $110,000.

FTC Submits Draft ANPRM on Online Food Delivery Service Fees for OMB Review

The FTC submitted a draft Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) related to online food delivery service fees to the Office of Management and Budget's Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) for review. OIRA determined this is a significant regulatory action under Executive Orders 12866 and 14215 requiring review before the FTC issues the ANPRM. The Commission voted 2-0 to refer the ANPRM to OMB.

StubHub Pays $10M Settlement Over Deceptive Ticket Pricing

The FTC settled with StubHub Holdings, Inc. for $10 million to resolve charges that the company violated the FTC Act and the agency's Rule on Unfair or Deceptive Fees by advertising ticket prices without clearly disclosing total costs upfront. The settlement requires StubHub to pay $10 million for consumer refunds and prohibits misrepresenting total prices, fees, or payment amounts.

FTC Releases FY 2026-2030 Strategic Plan, Approved 2-0

The Federal Trade Commission has published its FY 2026-2030 Strategic Plan, approved 2-0, outlining the agency's mission, vision, goals, and performance metrics for the next five years. The plan was developed following an extensive internal review and public comment period held in the prior year. The strategic plan provides guidance for the FTC's work promoting competition and protecting consumers.

FTC, Maryland AG Secure $75M Refunds, $3.1M Penalty Against Lindsay Auto

The FTC and Maryland Attorney General announced Lindsay Automotive Group and its executives will return over $75 million to consumers and pay a $3.1 million civil penalty to resolve allegations of deceptive advertising and unwanted add-on charges. The proposed order requires Lindsay to provide the total price of vehicles, including all mandatory fees, to consumers.

Match, OkCupid Settle FTC Charges Over Data Sharing

The FTC alleged that OkCupid and Match Group Americas shared personal data—including nearly 3 million user photos and location information—with an unrelated third party in violation of OkCupid's privacy policy promises. The proposed settlement permanently prohibits the companies from misrepresenting their data collection, use, disclosure, and protection practices. The FTC previously enforced its Civil Investigative Demand in federal court to obtain information during the investigation.

CPSC and EAA eFiling Meeting Notes

CPSC staff met with the Electronic Association of America (EAA) to discuss enhancements to the CPSC eFiling system used by regulated parties to submit required documentation. The meeting notes document the discussion items and action items from the April 6th meeting.