Trade Regulation Rule on Misbranding and Deception as to Leather Content of Waist Belts

The Federal Trade Commission announces the removal of the Trade Regulation Rule concerning Misbranding and Deception as to Leather Content of Waist Belts (Leather Belt Rule or Rule), 16 CFR Part 405. The Commission has reviewed the rulemaking record and determined that the Leather Belt Rule is no longer necessary. The proposed Guides for Select Leather and Imitation Leather Products will cover belts and the benefits of the Rule are retained through the inclusion of belts in the proposed Guides. Repealing the Leather Belt Rule eliminates unnecessary duplication. Further, if necessary, the Commission can address misrepresentations involving leather belts on a case-by-case basis, administratively under Section 5 of the Federal Trade Commission Act (FTC Act), 15 U.S.C. 45, or through enforcement actions under Section 13(b), 15 U.S.C. 53(b), in federal district court. Such actions can provide additional guidance to industry members on what practices are unfair or deceptive.