Update on CPSIA from my Senator

I don't think he really *gets* it, but I keep trying. The new guidelines he speaks about are not part of the law, so it just puts the onus on the store owner to comply with the letter of the law or risk fines by following their press release. Le Sigh.

Dear ______:

Thank you for contacting me regarding the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 and its effect on secondhand retailers and other sectors of our economy. I appreciate hearing from you.

The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (P. L. 110-314) passed the Senate, with my support, and became law on August 14, 2008. This act was created to further strengthen product safety laws and protect children, but in doing so, it could potentially have a negative effect on our economy, specifically on our retail industry.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has recently released updated guidelines regarding this act and how it may affect secondhand retailers. The guidelines specifically state that; "Sellers of used children's products, such as thrift stores and consignment stores, are not required to certify that those products meet the new lead limits, phthalates standard or new toy standards."

I have included a copy of the release for your convenience or you can find the release online at http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09086.html.

Secondhand retailers play a very important role in our economy, particularly during tough economic times. Child safety is paramount, and we all must endeavor to provide safe and reliable clothing and other products to children.

I will follow the implementation of this law to assure that compliance does not place any undue burden on retailers and families. If you have any further questions or need additional assistance please feel free to contact me.

I just want to add that the problem is that he left this part out, putting it back on them to not sell things, even though above it said they don't have to test them. How can they be sure if it's not tested?:

"recalled children's products, children's products that will contain lead such as children's jewelry, painted wooden or metal toys, flimsily made toys that are easily breakable into small parts and dolls and stuffed toys that have buttons, eyes, noses or other small parts that are not securely fastened and could present a choking hazard for young children. "