Prohibits the sale of certain children's products containing lead, mercury, or cadmium.
The bill mandates that if any children's product is found to contain the hazardous metals lead, mercury, or cadmium, the manufacturer, distributor, or importer must issue an immediate recall. Retail establishments will be required to remove recalled items from display within 48 hours and return them within 14 business days to the original supplier. Furthermore, the bill outlines that these entities must destroy the recalled products within 60 business days in a manner that prevents access by the public, thereby minimizing potential harm to children.
Senate Bill S1713 introduces regulations prohibiting the sale, distribution, importation, or manufacture of children's products designed for use by children under the age of six if these products contain lead, mercury, or cadmium. The bill aims to enhance the safety of children by barring hazardous materials from toys and associated products. It defines 'children's product' as items primarily meant for the care or use of children, thus establishing a clear framework within which these regulations will function.
Penalties for violations of SB S1713 include significant consequences, classifying various infractions as unlawful practices or criminal offenses of varying degrees based on the frequency of the violation. First-time offenders may face up to 18 months of imprisonment and fines, while repeat offenders could incur steeper penalties. This provision underscores the seriousness of non-compliance, aiming to ensure swift action against those who risk the safety of children through negligence in product safety.
The proposed legislation reflects a commitment to public health and safety, aiming to eliminate dangerous substances from children's products. By emphasizing stringent recall and destruction protocols, the bill seeks to foster a safer environment for children while also enforcing accountability among manufacturers and retailers.