Plain Language Summary
# COOL Online Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The COOL Online Act would require online sellers to clearly display where their products come from and where their business is based. This applies to imported goods sold on platforms like Amazon, eBay, and other e-commerce sites. The bill excludes certain categories like fresh food, agricultural products, pharmaceuticals, and used items from these labeling requirements. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) would be responsible for enforcing the rule and penalizing sellers who don't comply. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily impacts online retailers and sellers who sell imported products to U.S. consumers.
It aims to give American shoppers more transparent information about products they're considering buying, which could influence purchasing decisions based on country of origin. It doesn't directly regulate domestic-only sellers or exempt categories like groceries or secondhand goods. **Current Status** As of now, the bill (S 294) remains in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. It was introduced by Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisconsin) in the 119th Congress. The bill has not advanced further in the legislative process.
CRS Official Summary
Country of Origin Labeling Requirement Act or the COOL Online Act This bill requires sellers of imported products online to conspicuously disclose the country of origin of the products and the country where the seller's principal place of business is located. This requirement does not apply to specified products, such as agricultural commodities, food or drugs, or previously owned items.The Federal Trade Commission must enforce violations of this requirement as unfair or deceptive trade practices.
Latest Action
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.