Due to the U.S. Government partial shutdown, the Federal Trade Commission announced a temporary suspension of all of its investigations, including those into debt collection activities. As a result, the FTC has stated that its investigators cannot conduct normal fact-finding and attorneys cannot engage in settlement negotiations at this time. In particular, during the government shutdown, the FTC has announced that consumer hotlines will not be staffed; the FTC will not hold events, publish reports, or respond to Freedom of Information Act requests; and all other consumer protection activity would cease.

During this time, nearly all of the agency’s active legal work will be on hold. However, some judges may require certain cases to continue.

Troutman Sanders will continue to monitor and report on developments with the FTC.