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Jan. 8, 2009
The ramifications of the CPSIA law
I'd heard about the CPSIA law several months ago from a friend who sews cloth diapers. At the time, I thought it was just a concern for those who make and sell products for children, the small home businesses. I confess I thought that was a shame, but I didn't worry about it too much. I usually can't afford to buy the hand made items that are brand new, anyway.
But then I began to hear of other possible ramifications that would affect me more directly: mainly not being able to sell used children's clothing that precedes the CPSIA law, not being able to sell children's books and toys from before the CPSIA law. Suddenly it had my attention.
We buy used most of the time. I prefer to buy used books, used clothes, used toys, because it saves money for our family. Even better than buying used, is getting it free from freecycle, paperbackswap, a friend, or family member. We love hand-me-downs, thrift stores, and yard sales! Will this still be legal after February 10, 2009?
I don't know. No one seems to know. I find that worrisome and alarming.
I'm not worried about the big companies ... they can likely handle the extra cost of product testing, although I know that consumers will likely be affected by higher prices and less product variety. However, I am concerned for the small businesses who may have to shut their doors, or raise their prices drastically to survive.
I'm even more concerned for the families who will be affected by this. Those who, like us, are on a tight budget ... who stretch that budget by buying used products, and look forward to hand-me-downs. Not only is it possible they can no longer do that ... but they may be facing higher costs for the new products they have to buy instead.
I confess I'm just beginning to pay attention to this law that was passed last year. I confess that I know very little, although it seems even the lawmakers know very little about the Act they passed. The CPSC has taken the CPSIA law and are trying to define it ... they're trying to lay down guidelines. But the law is so vague that the guidelines could be changed again later.
If you are interested in learning more about this issue, or in taking action, please read these:
Save Handmade!
Act Now!
CPSIA FAQ
Trusting in Him,
April
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Jan. 8, 2009 - Untitled Comment