Toy makers get extension on lead tests (AP/Delmarva Times)

[eppur_se_muova]

By Ann Sanner • Associated Press Writer • February 2, 2009

WASHINGTON -- U.S. makers of toys and other children's products will get an extra year to comply with certain lead and chemical testing rules, but retailers won't be able to sell the items if they fail to meet government regulations set to go into effect Feb. 10.

The deadline was set when Congress last summer imposed the toughest lead standards in the world in passing the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act. The measure bans lead beyond minute levels in products for children 12 or younger.

On Friday, members of the Consumer Product Safety Commission voted unanimously to push back by one year the Feb. 10 deadline for manufacturers to begin certain testing for lead and other harmful substances before their products hit the market.

The decision gives the commission extra time to set guidelines for testing the products and gives businesses temporary relief from paying for some testing. But it raises questions as to how retailers from Wal-Mart to the local thrift shop will know whether the children's products they sell will meet the federal lead standards.
***
(not much) more: http://www.delmarvanow.com/article/20090202/BUSINESS/902020327