Wisconsin Senate Bill SB925

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/24
• Refer: 1/19/24
• Report Pass: 2/15/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

The sale of counterfeit lighters and unsafe lighters.

Impact

The introduction of SB925 represents a significant step towards enhancing consumer safety by removing potentially dangerous products from the market. By putting regulations in place against counterfeit and non-compliant lighters, the bill aims to protect consumers from products that may pose fire hazards or infringe on intellectual property rights. Compliance with safety standards will be enforced, potentially altering the market landscape for lighter manufacturers and distributors within the state.

Summary

Senate Bill 925 aims to prohibit the sale of counterfeit lighters and unsafe lighters in the state of Wisconsin. The bill categorizes a counterfeit lighter as one that infringes on intellectual property rights protected by federal or state law. It also defines an unsafe lighter as any lighter that fails to comply with established safety standards, specifically referencing certain ASTM International standards. This legislation is introduced by a bipartisan group of senators and representatives, and has been referred to the Committee on Shared Revenue, Elections, and Consumer Protection for further discussion.

Contention

While the intent of SB925 is to safeguard consumers, potential points of contention could arise around the enforcement aspects of the bill and the implications for retailers. The bill's critics may argue about the practicality of monitoring compliance with safety standards and the enforcement of penalties against those who sell counterfeit or unsafe lighters. Additionally, concerns might be voiced regarding the economic impact on small businesses that may struggle to meet these regulatory requirements or may inadvertently sell non-compliant items.