What is the role of government agencies in antitrust enforcement?

The role of government agencies in antitrust enforcement is to protect consumers from anticompetitive acts such as price gouging or monopolies. These agencies enforce antitrust laws set by the federal government and by individual states such as Texas. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is the primary federal agency responsible for enforcement of antitrust laws. The FTC investigates and prosecutes cases of mergers, unfair pricing, and false advertising. It also sets up regulations to guard against anticompetitive acts. The Department of Justice (DOJ) is the second major agency in antitrust enforcement. It enforces antitrust laws on a national level, mainly focusing on companies that are too large or have too much of a stranglehold on the market. The DOJ has the power to enter into consent orders with companies that participate in anticompetitive practices, and can also bring lawsuits against them. On a state level, Texas has its own antitrust enforcement agency—the Texas Office of the Attorney General (OAG). The OAG works to investigate and prosecute companies that violate Texas antitrust laws. They also monitor compliance with antitrust regulations, and can initiate investigations and pursue civil penalties for businesses that are found in violation. Overall, the role of government agencies in antitrust enforcement is to protect consumers from anticompetitive practices. These agencies investigate, prosecute, and set regulations to ensure fair competition in the marketplace.

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