Prohibits the sale or distribution of certain lighters
Impact
The bill's enactment would amend Chapter 407 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, introducing a new section that restricts the sale of lighters that fail to meet specific safety standards or that infringe on intellectual property rights. This legislative action would likely lead to tighter regulations for retailers and manufacturers of lighters, ensuring that all products sold in Missouri comply with defined safety criteria. By targeting novelty lighters, the bill specifically aims to reduce the availability of products that are appealing to children but present serious safety risks.
Summary
House Bill 2586 seeks to enhance consumer safety by prohibiting the sale and distribution of certain types of lighters, specifically novelty lighters, counterfeit lighters, and unsafe lighters in the state of Missouri. The bill defines these lighters in detail, categorizing them based on their compliance with safety standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials. The intent behind this legislation is to protect consumers, particularly children, from lighters that may pose safety hazards due to their novelty designs or lack of adherence to safety regulations.
Contention
Supporters of HB 2586 argue that the legislation is necessary to prevent accidents and injuries associated with unsafe lighters, particularly in households with young children. Conversely, some industry representatives may express concerns regarding the economic implications of restricting certain product sales and the feasibility of compliance with the defined regulations. The discussions surrounding this bill may highlight tensions between consumer safety advocates and businesses operating in the lighter market, particularly those producing novelty items.