The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is an independent agency of the United States government, established in 1914 by the Federal Trade Commission Act. Its principal mission is to enforce civil U.S. antitrust law and to promote consumer protection. The FTC aims to prevent unfair business practices and to enforce federal antitrust and consumer protection laws that prevent anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices. The agency is responsible for: Protecting consumers from fraud, deception, and unfair business practices in the marketplace. Maintaining competition to promote a marketplace free from anti-competitive mergers, business practices, or public policy outcomes. Enhancing informed consumer choices and public understanding of the competitive process. Accomplishing its mission without unduly burdening legitimate business activity. The FTC's actions are essential for ensuring that the markets operate transparently and fairly, which in turn protects consumers and promotes competition.

The Direct Selling Association (DSA) is a national trade organization for direct selling companies that market products and services directly to consumers through an independent, entrepreneurial sales force. The DSA serves to promote, protect, and police the direct selling industry while helping direct selling companies and their independent salesforce become more successful. The organization is committed to: Enforcing its Code of Ethics, which protects both consumers and independent salespeople from unethical practices. Advocating for public policies that support the growth and stability of the direct selling business model. Providing members with education, training, and networking opportunities to help them improve their business operations and strategies. The DSA's membership includes a range of companies, from small, entrepreneurial organizations to large multinational corporations, all of which use a direct selling approach that bypasses traditional retail outlets. The DSA is instrumental in ensuring that its members adhere to legal and ethical standards, enhancing the credibility and integrity of the direct selling industry.

The FTC's upcoming rulings could profoundly affect independent distributors by restricting how earnings and business opportunities are presented. The "Earnings Claims" rule may limit discussions on social media, impacting our ability to share success stories and attract new members. Additionally, the "Business Opportunity" rule could impose new requirements for extensive disclosure documents before enrollment, potentially slowing down the recruitment process and increasing operational burdens. These changes could significantly alter the landscape of direct selling, affecting growth and personal business development for many.