Commission clarifies lead law for toys

AUSTIN (KXAN) - There has been a lot of confusion over a new law that requires manufacturers to lower the amount of lead used in children's toys. Many owners of consignment shops were worried the new law would put them out of business, and parents worried they would not be able to resell old toys and clothes.

At the Pumpkin Patch on South Lamar, owners Michelle and Matt Alexander have always been selective in which toys and clothes they buy and sell, but after a new Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act was passed they were worried their days in business might be numbered.

"The way it was written, it would honestly all have to go to the landfill instantly," said Michelle.

Originally, consignment owners were going to have to test each individual item for lead before selling it, a very costly requirement, but after an outcry from consignment shop owners and parents, the Consumer Product Safety Commission clarified the law stating: "Starting Feb. 10, all children's products must not contain more than 600 parts per million total lead."

That means manufacturers and importers will have to test for the element in children's toys, clothing and accessories. However, sellers of used children's products will not need to certify the products meet the new standard.

"It is aimed at the manufacturer, which is how it should have been from the beginning and probably should have been done previous to now,” said Michelle.

Those who resell kids toys and clothes need to be diligent by checking the CPSC Web site for recalls and toys to avoid.

"You can type in just about anything you think could be a problem, and you can find it on there if you think it has been recalled, so parents should check that when they buy or sell," said Michelle.

It is a huge relief for parents who rely on affordable kids' items. CPSC experts said products that have an increased risk for lead contamination include children's jewelry and painted wooden and metal toys.