No more consignment toys?

There are only 3 new toys and one new clothing item in that picture, and they were all gifts. Everything else she is wearing (except the diaper) and playing with are second hand or consignment finds.
We have a wonderful consignment store in our town and we do most of our shopping for Matilda there. But we might not be able to much longer.



The Consumer Products Safety Commission has decided to pass rigorous new safety testing standards for lead and phaylates on ALL childrens' products (including clothing) SOLD after Feb 10. This law is so broad that most consignment stores and specialty business probably can't afford the testing. Kiddie consignment stores are probably going to be forced out of business by this new law, as well as a lot of small businesses that make hand-made clothing and toys.

Now, I'm all for protecting children from lead poisoning, of course... but couldn't something less broad, or at least not retro-active have been written?

I do most of Matilda's shopping for toys and clothes at a consignment store for kid's stuff. I feel sad that this store will likely be pushed out of business by this law, and while I'm greatful that I'm able to afford to do her shopping (albeit for fewer things) at other stores, I worry for the families that can't.

I also find it sad that so many more people probably know about the stupid digital TV conversion happening on Feb 17 than know about this law which will have a much greater economic impact--not only on the families who depend on thrift shopping, but on the businesses that will have to close their doors.
And to think of all the wasted goods that are going to go straight to the landfills now--you know these business can't get caught giving away possibly tainted goods! Oh the thought just hurts!
The whole thing makes me sad and angry.

What can we do? We're running out of time, but you can contact your congress person and demand that they amend the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act in a satisfactory manner to protect consignment businesses, prevent needless waste, allow families who still depend on donations and thrift shopping to be able to continue to clothe their children, and allow crafters and purveyors of handmade childrens products to stay in business. At the very least the law could apply to only products MADE after February 10 and second hand products that have been subject to recalls--it doesn't have to be retro-active.
This particular act is consumer protectivisim gone WAY too far, and at a time when we can ill afford it.

Here's a link from the CPSC about the Act (CPSIA)

Here's one more great link with more (digestible) information about the act and more things you can do to help (if you're so inclined)!