Freaking CPSIA

[alison_in_oh]

What on earth is going on with this law? Is it being enforced? It's complete BS. It bothered me when it was first introduced, and now I have heard from several people recently who can't/won't sell their kid-related handmade goods because of fear of reprisal. :( There's got to be a way to protect kids without killing small business!

GAH.

Comments

[redemptionsongs]

I cannot say much, but this whole thing is so much farther reaching than people know about. If it comes down to it, I plan to release my sewing pattern and tutorial for free for people to DIY. I refuse to let an awesome product die because of BS government regulation.

[alison_in_oh]

Last I heard you had most of your supplies tested, amirite?

I really hope it doesn't come to just giving your pattern away. :(

[redemptionsongs]

Yes, and there is a standard for SSCs about to be completed so I can jump through those (expensive) hoops, but the CPSIA is not the only agency to be worried about unfortunately.

[alison_in_oh]

Seriously? :( I have just been stumbling around through some threads describing new increased requirements from the FTC, and...just, YEESH. I had a book out from the library by Joel Salatin called "Everything I Want to Do is Illegal," about how USDA regulations destroy everything that is humane/cost-effective/community-building/healthy/environmentally friendly in small family farms. I don't think the answer is more regulation I think it's more human touch, more accountability. Small business owners CARE about the people who use their products, we should TRUST that. :( Man, I sound like a libertarian, LOL.

[alison_in_oh]

I don't understand it either, I was trying to see if this guy here on the island could find a loophole so he can sell me a baby rattle, and my head was spinning by the time I tried to find ANYTHING concrete on the CPSC site, nevermind all the other threads on etsy and Ravelry with people trying to make heads or tails of it. :( I don't know. I did read that the CPSC site says they don't want to put (people) out of business, so presumably they'll tell you what you're doing wrong and help you comply if you do accidentally run afoul of the red tape?

I understand the need for the law, especially for the big guys, but kind of even for the small guys (you don't want Joe Schmoe selling blocks covered with lead-based paint or anything). But I hate the confusing and vague and scary aspects, it's just infuriating. :\