United Liberty

In an effort to save our children, the nanny-state has struck again.  The Consumer Product Safety Act of 2008 was recently passed, and it’s sure to wreak havoc where ever it goes.  It essentially requires testing for dangerous chemicals in almost all products that are intended for children 12 and under.  This includes clothing, shoes, books, toys, jewelry, cds, board games and more.

While this law may not pose much of a problem for large retailers, for those who operate small businesses or own resale shops (including charity stores such as Goodwill), this legislation is potentially devastating.  In most cases, the costs for having the products tested greatly outweigh any potential profit and talks of fines up to $100,000 and possible jail time will probably keep most from bucking the law.

This bill effects more than just retailers however.  Many lower-income families depend on finding quality merchandise at deeply discounted prices at charity thrift stores.  And of course, the inability to sell the merchandise limits the ability of charities to use their retail profit to continue assisting those in need.  With an unstable economy overshadowing our country, hand-cuffing organizations such as this is foolish.

Now, for our readers- one guess as to the lone Congressman who voted against this intrusive and outrageous bill?

Update:

The CPSC has now clarified the legislation and is stating that retailers selling used children’s products will not be required to have the products tested if the items are used or manufactured before Feb. 10th, but that they are still held to the requirement of only selling products that don’t exceed the lead content as prescribed by the law.

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