On the recordJanuary 25, 2011
I rise today to introduce the Common Sense in Consumer Product Safety Act of 2011 on behalf of the folks across America who are outdoor enthusiasts and budding sportsman and women. This bill will bring a common sense approach to restrictions we place upon access to children's products. In 2008, in response to the high lead paint content found in a number of toys and products intended for children, the Congress passed legislation to limit children's access to these dangerous products. Many of these products were imports from China and other places where consumer protection is weak or non-existent. I supported this legislation, as did 78 of my colleagues. Any product sold that is intended to be used by children up to the age of 12 must be tested and certified to not contain more than the allowable level of lead. However, it became clear that the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act has had some unintended consequences. While the goal is admirable, it is important to inject a little common sense into the process.
