The Commission vote authorizing the filing of the settlements was 4-0, with Commissioner Orson Swindle dissenting in part. Commissioner Sheila F. Anthony also issued a statement, in which she was joined by Chairman Pitofsky and Commissioner Thompson. In a system of limited governmental power, it is critical that the government articulate the reasons why a defendant has violated the law before it acts to restrict the defendant's individual freedom. One issue the Commission faces in such situations is whether it is necessary and appropriate to amend the complaint to reflect the additional violations. A stipulated final judgment and order is for settlement purposes only and does not constitute an admission by the defendant of a law violation.
Consent judgments have the force of law when signed by the judge.