Last month, Congress’s CPSIA regulations put limits on the amount of lead and phthalates that can appear in children’s toys. Good news for little ones who stick everything in their mouths, but bad news for the small toy companies who’ve been making safe playthings for years. Some of our favorite small businesses face potential economic strain from these regulations, since companies have to pay to get items tested. Fortunately, the Handmade Toy Alliance is fighting the good fight for everything small and green. The HTA is directing its efforts toward a Congressional amendment to protect cottage industries from the high costs of mandatory product testing.

– Sara, KIWI intern and keeping you up-to-date on CPSIA regulations

This month, Congress is cracking the whip when it comes to toxins in children’s products. Thanks to the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), little ones now have greater protection from exposure to dangerous substances. As of February 10th, all items made for young children must be tested for levels of lead as well as a group of toxic chemicals known as phthalates. The new standards under the CPSIA are great for our children, but they’ve also led to complaints from small manufacturers who feel threatened by the high cost of laboratory testing. We’ll keep you updated on the risks and benefits of this important act in the following weeks.

– Sara, KIWI intern and advocate of trustworthy toys