# House Members Propose FTC Authority Expansion

Representatives Jan Schakowsky and Kathy Castor introduced the FTC Autonomy Act and the 21st Century FTC Act on October 1, 2026. The proposals would expand the Federal Trade Commission’s enforcement and rulemaking authority, including restoring civil penalties for first-time offenses. They have not been enacted and do not create a procurement opportunity, but could affect government contractors operating in consumer-facing markets if passed.

- Contractors serving consumers can assess whether their activities fall under FTC oversight and consider how the proposed changes could affect their compliance exposure if enacted.
- Procurement teams should distinguish this proposed legislation from current obligations; the signals identify no new contract requirements, solicitation, or award.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Topics:** Policy, Regulatory Compliance
**Published:** October 01, 2026

### Government Entities
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
- U.S. House of Representatives (House)

### Key Quotes
> I’m glad to be in this fight with Congresswoman Castor to make sure the FTC has the authority and independence it needs to protect consumers.
> — Jan Schakowsky, U.S. Representative

> The FTC is key to accountability, and the 21st Century FTC and FTC Autonomy Acts will strengthen the ability to act and restore civil penalties for first time offenses.
> — Kathy Castor, U.S. Representative

### Sources
- [Schakowsky, Castor Introduce Legislation to Modernize FTC and Strengthen Consumer Protections | Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky](https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-castor-introduce-legislation-modernize-ftc-and-strengthen-consumer) - Schakowsky