§65 Information Required From Export Trade Corporation; Powers of Federal Trade Commission

Summary

If an association only sells goods abroad, it must, within 30 days of forming, send the Federal Trade Commission a signed statement that lists where it works and the names and addresses of its officers and members or stockholders. If it is a corporation, it must send its articles of incorporation and bylaws. If it is not incorporated, it must send its association agreement. On January 1 every year the association must file the same information again and note any changes to its organizing papers. The Commission may also ask for more details about the group’s organization, business practices, management, and how it connects with other businesses or people. If an association fails to file these reports, it loses certain legal benefits and must pay $100 for each day it remains out of compliance. The United States can sue to collect that money in the district where the association’s main office is or where it does business, and U.S. attorneys will handle the case under the Attorney General’s direction. If the Commission thinks the group is hurting competition, fixing prices, or otherwise restraining trade, it can call the group in, investigate, and make recommendations. If the group ignores those recommendations, the Commission will send its findings to the Attorney General. The Commission may use its usual enforcement powers to carry this out.