Though in my opinion they were cutting it a little close, I am nevertheless relieved to report that the CPSC has granted a one-year stay on testing requirements for the CPSIA. According to the CSPC’s press release on the subject, “The decision by the Commission gives the staff more time to finalize four proposed rules which could relieve certain materials and products from lead testing and to issue more guidance on when testing is required and how it is to be conducted.” In addition, “The stay of enforcement provides some temporary, limited relief to the crafters, children’s garment manufacturers and toy makers who had been subject to the testing and certification required under the CPSIA. These businesses will not need to issue certificates based on testing of their products until additional decisions are issued by the Commission. However, all businesses, including, but not limited to, handmade toy and apparel makers, crafters and home-based small businesses, must still be sure that their products conform to all safety standards and similar requirements, including the lead and phthalates provisions of the CPSIA.”
It appears that the voices of the artisans and crafters have been heard, and one hopes that the commission will continue to consider America’s cottage industries in their redrafting of the CPSIA.
Biz Miss 