Antitrust Guidance Comment Deadline Approaching May 21

News,

The deadline to submit comments to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Antitrust Division on their joint inquiry into updated antitrust guidance for collaborations among competitors is May 21, 2026. Comments are open via regulations.gov.

As previously reported, the agencies are seeking input on how organizations, including associations, navigate collaborative activities such as bench-marking, research and data sharing. The inquiry comes after the withdrawal of longstanding antitrust "safety zones" in 2024, which had provided guidance for association statistical surveys and bench-marking programs.

The outcome of this process could have significant implications for associations that rely on aggregated industry data to deliver market insights, support member decision-making and advance their industries. Updated guidance could help reduce legal uncertainty while preserving the ability of associations to provide these valuable resources.

The American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) is planning to submit comments to the FTC and DOJ before the May 21 deadline to highlight the importance of clear, practical antitrust guidance that recognizes the legitimate and pro-competitive role associations play in collecting and sharing industry information. ASAE will continue to keep members informed as this process moves forward. If you have questions, please contact ASAE Public Policy via email.

This article was provided to OSAP by ASAE's Power of Associations and Inroads.