I Love Libraries -
I Love Libraries -

Exempt Books from the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act! US Capitol

As you may know, Congress passed legislation titled “The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008” last August.  This legislation seeks to decrease the levels of lead and phthalates in products intended for children 12 years of age or younger and will be enforced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).   This legislation was misinterpreted by the CPSC to include books.

Thankfully, U.S. Representative Jeff Fortenberry (R-Neb.) recently introduced legislation to amend the CPSIA to exempt ordinary books from the lead limits within the bill.  This legislation specifically exempts books and would ensure that children continue to have access to safe, educational and entertaining reading materials.  Mr. Fortenberry cannot do this alone, and he needs our help to ensure that his colleagues understand books are indeed a safe product, but our children’s access to them is threatened because of the CPSC’s current interpretation. 

Action Needed: In order to gain the attention this legislation deserves, please call or write your Representatives and ask them to cosponsor H.R. 1692.

Time is of the essence; we have less than 11 months before the new implementation date arrives, and it is critical that we convince as many Members as possible to sign onto this legislation.  Without our advocacy, this legislation will not move forward! Background on Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act

Act now!

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