Internet Association Files Comments With The Federal Trade Commission On The Sharing Economy

Beckerman: “It is unsurprising that incumbent industries do not want to compete with the sharing economy. Regulators should be careful not to inadvertently advance their anti-competitive agendas.”

Washington D.C. – The Internet Association submitted comments to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in response to the FTC’s Sharing Economy Workshop. The comments outline the importance of enacting regulations for the sharing economy that work to protect and promote the interests of consumers and the micro entrepreneurs who benefit from the sharing economy.

“It is unsurprising that incumbent industries do not want to compete with the sharing economy. Regulators should be careful not to inadvertently advance their anti-competitive agendas,” said Michael Beckerman, President and CEO of the Internet Association. “A vibrant sharing economy means lower prices and higher quality services for consumers and the communities in which they live.”

The comments look to inform the debate about how to strike a balance between encouraging competition and protecting consumers. Specifically, the comments urge regulators to recognize the benefits of participating in the sharing economy – including the mechanisms already have in place to ensure user safety – when considering appropriate regulatory measures.

“Sharing economy platforms have evolved to the point where existing consumer safeguards makes the services safer than the incumbent competitors looking to stifle competition,” Beckerman concluded.

To view the full comments, click here.

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