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FTC: Ban On Sunday Car Sales Is Bad For Competition

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) -- Federal regulators say Illinois' longstanding ban on Sunday automobile sales isn't good for competition and can be harmful to the marketplace.

The Federal Trade Commission says the prohibition on Sunday automobile sales also makes it more difficult for drivers to shop around for the best deal.

The agency issued the statement late last week in response to a measure introduced by state Sen. Jim Oberweis, who wants to repeal the law that went into effect in 1983.

Oberweis asked the FTC to weigh in.

Violators can face a $1,500 fine.

The ban is still supported by car sellers, who said it cuts overhead, levels the playing field and gives employees a day off.

An effort to repeal the ban was defeated in a state Senate committee in 1987.

(TM and © Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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