Where can I find the Consent Order related to Budget's fuel charge practices?
Budget Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
In the Matter of Budget Rent A Car System, Inc. (Federal Trade Commission Docket No. C-4212). The Federal Trade Commission ("FTC") undertook an investigation of Budget's practices alleging that Budget engaged in unfair and deceptive practices related to fuel charges imposed upon renters who drive less than 75 miles. As part of a Consent Agreement, Budget agreed to modify disclosure language regarding fuel-related charges. The Consent Agreement requires Budget to disclose expressly or by implication any fuel-related charges, fees, or costs relating to the rental of any vehicle in marketing and promotional materials. Further, Budget is required to disclose clearly and conspicuously at the time of the rental transaction any fuel-related charges, fees, or costs, including any fuel-related charges, fees, or costs that a renter who drives the vehicle less than any specified amount may incur and the manner in which a renter can avoid such fuel-related charges. On January 2, 2008, the FTC signed the Decision and Consent Order. Budget is obligated to comply with the Consent Order until January 2, 2028. The Consent Order is included in Exhibit C of this disclosure document.
Source: Item 3 — LITIGATION (FDD pages 12–16)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Budget's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, details regarding the consent order related to Budget's fuel charge practices can be found in Exhibit C of the document. This consent order stems from a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) investigation into Budget's practices concerning fuel charges imposed on renters who drive less than 75 miles.
The consent agreement mandates that Budget clearly disclose any fuel-related charges, fees, or costs in their marketing and promotional materials, whether explicitly or implicitly. Furthermore, at the time of the rental transaction, Budget must clearly and conspicuously disclose all fuel-related charges, fees, or costs, including those that a renter who drives the vehicle less than a specified amount may incur, as well as how a renter can avoid these charges.
The FTC signed the Decision and Consent Order on January 2, 2008, and Budget is obligated to comply with it until January 2, 2028. Franchisees should review Exhibit C carefully to understand the specific requirements and ensure full compliance to avoid potential legal issues.