Jan 06 2009
CPSIA - National Bankruptcy Day
Regulations under the CPSIA Act (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act) regarding toxic chemical levels in the manufacturing of goods intended or perceived to be intended for the use of children under the age of 12 come into effect February 10, 2009. This legislation responded to the rising number of incidences of toxic levels of lead in some children’s toys. There are a number of what is believed to be unintended consequences of this legislation.
Rick Woldenberg, President and CEO of Learning Resources is given credit for deeming February 10th as National Bankruptcy Day. The Act was aimed at large manufacturers but there was no provision made for the exemption of small manufacturers, crafters, artists, or cottage industries. These too must comply with the existing legislation. Compliance requires testing and certification of each product. At between $300 to $500 US per test this can quickly overwhelm these small manufacturers potentially forcing them into bankruptcy.
This legislation applies to all who would sell their product to addresses in the USA. It affects small manufacturers and crafters in Canada and Europe who sell their products online at venues like Etsy or Artfire for example.
For example, my sister knits doll clothes for the 11 ½ inch fashion doll. She uses mostly acrylic yarn. Some yarns may have nylon or wool in them. One of her designs is for an evening gown. Each gown she knits is a one of a kind outfit. According to the present law, she would need to have each outfit or style tested. The testing must be done on the final product not on the raw materials. At $10.00 per outfit she can no longer afford to sell her gowns to anyone in the USA.
It is also important to be aware that this does not only affect those who make toys . It affects any and all products that are intended or, and make especial note of this fact, might be perceived to be intended, for the use of children under the age of 12. This includes clothing, books both new and used, musical instruments, and many, many more items.
Legislators are considering amendments and revisions to this legislation but will they be enough or will this sound a death knoll for handmade children’s items?
