The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), under President Donald Trump, announced on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, that a proposed rule for U.S. table saw makers to adopt a patented finger detection system should be scrapped.
This is part of a broader effort to eliminate over 170 rules seen as barriers to competition.
Background on the Table Saw Proposal
In 2023, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) suggested the rule to cut down on injuries. It estimated preventing about 49,000 cases yearly. However, the change could raise saw prices by hundreds of dollars, according to the commission.
Bipartisan Opposition Last Year
Lawmakers from both parties opposed the idea in 2024. They argued that relying on one company’s technology would drive up costs for consumers and limit options in the market.
FTC Chairman’s Statement
FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson explained,
“The government’s job is to fight monopolies and price gouging that block fair competition.
Yet, many federal rules do just the opposite.”
This view drives the push to review and remove harmful regulations.
Trump’s Review Order
In April 2025, Trump directed the FTC and the Department of Justice’s antitrust team to examine rules that might stifle competition. While the review continued, the CPSC decided last month to pull back the table saw proposal.
Other Rules Under Fire
The FTC also recommended ending a Department of Transportation rule for airport concessions favoring women- and minority-owned businesses. The DOT has already started to reverse it.
Additionally, the FTC criticized a rule that forces students to opt out if colleges automatically charge for textbooks. This, they say, burdens consumers unnecessarily.
Full List Not Yet Public
The complete roster of regulations the FTC wants to change or eliminate was not released on Wednesday. More details are expected soon as the deregulation process advances.
Why This Matters
These moves aim to reduce government overreach and boost free markets. By cutting rules that favor specific companies or add costs, the FTC seeks to promote innovation and lower prices for Americans.
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