Deceptive Downsizing Prohibition Act of 2025
- Bill Number
- H.R. 5226
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Commerce
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-09-09: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- Last Updated
- 2026-04-28T08:06:24Z
AI-Generated Summary
Deceptive Downsizing Prohibition Act of 2025 (H.R. 5226)
Purpose
This legislation aims to protect consumers by directing the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to regulate and prohibit "deceptive downsizing," where manufacturers reduce the size of consumer products while using packaging designed for larger versions. It addresses harms such as reduced purchasing power, unrecognized size changes, and contributions to inflation.
Key Provisions
- Definitions: Establishes terms including "consumer product" (referencing existing law), "deceptive downsizing" (selling reduced-size items in similar packaging), "larger size," and "reduced size."
- Prohibition: Bans manufacturers from engaging in deceptive downsizing.
- Safe Harbor: Exempts manufacturers from liability if they provide clear, conspicuous notice on the main display panel stating both the prior larger size and the new reduced size.
- Regulations: Authorizes the FTC to issue rules under standard administrative procedures to implement the Act.
- Enforcement: Treats violations as unfair or deceptive acts under the Federal Trade Commission Act, with the FTC handling enforcement using its existing powers, penalties, and jurisdiction.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This bill introduces a new specific prohibition on deceptive downsizing, building on the FTC's general authority over unfair practices. It does not amend other statutes but explicitly incorporates enforcement mechanisms from the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 41 et seq.) and treats violations as violations of section 18(a)(1)(B) of that Act. It clarifies that the FTC's existing powers remain unchanged.
Potential Impacts
- Government Agencies: Expands the FTC's role in consumer protection by requiring oversight and potential rulemaking for product packaging practices.
- Citizens: Provides consumers with better information about product size changes, potentially increasing transparency and reducing surprise at the point of purchase.
- International Relations: No direct effects noted in the legislation.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Manufacturers of consumer products (such as food and goods).
- Consumers purchasing these products.
- The Federal Trade Commission (as the primary enforcer).
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
The Act reinforces the FTC's authority over interstate commerce and consumer protection without creating new constitutional conflicts. It emphasizes the need for clear notices beyond standard labeling, potentially setting precedents for how size changes must be highlighted. The bill maintains that it does not limit the FTC's other legal powers.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Rep. Correa, J. Luis [D-CA-46]
Cosponsors (7)
Rep. Fields, Cleo [D-LA-6], Rep. Jackson, Jonathan L. [D-IL-1], Rep. Johnson, Henry C. "Hank" [D-GA-4], Del. Norton, Eleanor Holmes [D-DC-At Large], Rep. García, Jesús G. "Chuy" [D-IL-4], Rep. Thanedar, Shri [D-MI-13], Rep. Grijalva, Adelita S. [D-AZ-7]
Recent Actions
- 2025-09-09: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- 2025-09-09: Introduced in House
- 2025-09-09: Introduced in House
Bill Versions
- Deceptive Downsizing Prohibition Act of 2025 — issued 2025-09-09 — PDF (5 pages)