Title 15: Commerce and Trade
Antitrust law, consumer protection, the FTC, securities regulation, electronic commerce, credit reporting, and trade practices.
116 chapters · 1,892 sections · 9 key sections available
Key Sections (9)
Sherman Antitrust Act — Trusts in Restraint of Trade Illegal
The Sherman Antitrust Act makes it a felony to form monopolies or conspire to restrain trade. Corporations face fines up to $100 million, individuals up to $1 million and 10 years in prison.
Federal Trade Commission Act — Unfair Methods of Competition
The FTC Act outlaws unfair competition and deceptive business practices. The Federal Trade Commission has authority to investigate businesses and take enforcement action.
Fair Credit Reporting Act — Congressional Findings and Purpose
The Fair Credit Reporting Act requires credit bureaus to maintain accurate records, give consumers access to their credit reports, and follow fair procedures when reporting credit information.
Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (E-SIGN)
Electronic signatures and contracts are just as legally valid as paper ones for interstate commerce. However, consumers must consent to receiving documents electronically.
Securities Exchange Act Section 10(b) — Manipulative and Deceptive Devices
Section 10(b) and Rule 10b-5 are the core antifraud provisions of securities law, making it illegal to use deception, insider information, or manipulation in buying or selling stocks and other securities.
Fair Debt Collection Practices Act — Congressional Findings and Purpose
The FDCPA protects consumers from abusive debt collection practices by banning harassment, false statements, and unfair collection methods. Collectors must identify themselves and honor written requests to stop contact.
Sherman Antitrust Act
Prohibits monopolies, conspiracies, and contracts that unreasonably restrain interstate or foreign trade. Criminal violations can result in fines up to $100 million for corporations and imprisonment up to 10 years.
Sarbanes-Oxley Act
Establishes enhanced corporate governance and financial reporting standards. Creates the PCAOB to oversee auditing. Requires CEO/CFO certification of financial statements and imposes criminal penalties for fraud.
Consumer Credit Protection Act
Umbrella statute requiring lenders to disclose credit terms to consumers. Includes the Truth in Lending Act, Fair Credit Reporting Act, Equal Credit Opportunity Act, and Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.