"A broadly written law requiring lead and phthalate testing on all children’s products is set to go into effect on Feb. 10. The text of the law has prompted much confusion and threatens the livelihood of mom-and-pop shops. The law, meant to regulate large manufacturers that outsource overseas, also applies to the little guy. Some crafters and small-scale manufacturers are particularly hurt by the wording and possible enforcement, because many such home-based business owners pride themselves on using all-natural, child-safe materials."
Marlo and the EtsyRain team have put together a list of actions you can take:
An easy way to participate and make a difference: Place your online vote for the following list of action items on Change.org's "Citizen's Briefing Book" - from their site:
"Share your ideas on any issue facing the new administration, then rate or comment on other ideas. The best rated ideas will be gathered into a Citizen's Briefing Book to be delivered to President Obama after he is sworn in. "
Please click on this link to get to the complete list of items related to the CPSIA
Vote for as many items as you support. There are about 11 items on the list so far.
If you wish to vote for just one listing, may I suggest: Repeal the CPSIA - it is well written and currently has the most support.
More online petitions to participate in:
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/RepealCPSIA/index.html
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/handmadetoys/
Write to your United States Congress Person and Senator to request changes in the CPSIA to save handmade toys. Use our sample letter or write your own-
http://www.handmadetoyalliance.org/how-you-can-help
Join the Handmade Toy Alliance
http://www.handmadetoyalliance.org
Join the CPSIA information group (NEW - I have started a "Washington State" group just in case the organizers need to contact people from our state...sign up and sign on, please!)
http://cpsia-central.ning.com/
It is up US make a difference in how we allow our elected government to treat us. Small businesses MUST take a stand and make their voices heard lest we lay down defeated by apathy.
Please vote. Please help. Please blog. Please take action TODAY.
Even if it's not your business you help save today, think about what could happen tomorrow.
FYI,this sweeping law will affect not only toy and clothing makers, but writers and publishers of children's books, thrift store and consignment shop owners, jewelry makers and any other maker of items of items perceived to be for children 12 and under!
ReplyDeleteSince this is a Federal Law, the fines are jail time Plus $100,000 in fines PER violation. Using a "not for children under 12" disclaimer will NOT protect anyone the way the law is written. This law is almost unbelievable to be sure...but HAS passed and will go into effect on Feb. 10th if we wait to see what happens!