FTC

“Facilitated Communication” Device Marketers Settle FTC Charges

Two companies that market communication devices for autistic or other developmentally-disabled individuals with severe communication disabilities have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that they made false and unsubstantiated claims that the devices enable such individuals to communicate through the process of “facilitated communication.” The devices at issue are similar to a typewriter, computer, or other alphabet display chart, and cost from $130 to $1,100. In separate proposed settlements, the companies are prohibited from making false or unsubstantiated performance claims about any communication aid they offer in the future. Facilitated communication is a process by which an assistant or facilitator provides physical support, such as wrist or hand holding, to a disabled person to “help” the person type or point to letters on a …