WASHINGTON D.C. – June 10, 2025 – The Coalition on Contact Lens Consumer Choice today released a statement applauding the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) recent action of sending warning letters to contact lens prescribers regarding potential violations of the Contact Lens Rule. This proactive measure by the FTC reinforces the critical importance of consumer choice and fair competition in the contact lens marketplace.

“The Coalition on Contact Lens Consumer Choice strongly commends the FTC for its vigilant oversight and enforcement of the Contact Lens Rule.  For too long, bad actors in the optometric community have refused to provide copies of prescriptions to their customers and have unfortunately engaged in practices that hinder consumers’ ability to comparison shop and obtain their prescribed contact lenses from the seller of their choice.

Ever since they first wrote the Contact Lens Rule, the FTC has consistently stood on the side of contact lens consumers and protected their rights through each update of the Rule and enforcement actions.  Their recent warning letters are a crucial reminder that consumers and taxpayers have rights and that these anti-competitive practices will not be tolerated.  The FTC’s commitment to upholding the Contact Lens Rule is crucial for maintaining a level playing field and protecting consumers’ interests. We believe these warning letters will serve as a powerful deterrent against future violations and encourage all prescribers to comply with the law fully. The Coalition stands ready to assist the FTC to ensure that every contact lens wearer receives a copy of their own prescription and has the freedom to choose where they purchase their lenses.”

The Fairness to Contact Lens Consumers Act (FCLCA), signed into law in 2003, and the subsequent Contact Lens Rule, were established to ensure that consumers receive a copy of their contact lens prescription at the end of a fitting, enabling them to purchase lenses from any authorized seller. This framework empowers consumers, saves taxpayers, and fosters a competitive market.”