Thursday, January 8, 2009

Save Handmade Toys and Small Businesses from the CPSIA

The CPSIA is the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act.  It will take effect on February 10th.  Congress is trying to pass a one size fits all solution for a problem that was caused by mass toy makers who outsourced to China.  It's not only going to affect toys; it regards ALL products for children under 12.   This is something that, if passed as it is currently written will devastate small businesses, artisans, and work at home moms.  The act is retroactive so thrift stores, consignment shops, and used book stores will go out of business.  To save money, Grant and I have always tried to buy our larger baby toys used for Elliott.  We wont be able to to that anymore.  Businesses will be forced to pay thousands of dollars to test each batch of their products before they can be sold.  It will be impossible for small businesses to comply. Prices will rise.  I will not be able to sell my products on Etsy anymore.  Yes, I want toys and children's products to be safe; but punishing small businesses and artisans for mistakes multi-million dollar companies made is not the answer.


I've written my senator and congressman; and you should too.  There is a sample letter, links to contact your congressman and senator, and a petition you can sign here 

So many people can say it better than I can, so check out  this link.

Also, read SuperNaturalMomma's blog about it.