A Few Thoughts on Product Safety

This is a terrific New York Times editorial from the other day

August 5, 2008
The President and Product Safety

American consumers, who have suffered years of neglect from government agencies created for their protection, could soon be in for some genuine help. Congress last week overwhelmingly passed the first important reform in 30 years of the creaky Consumer Product Safety Commission. Aides to President Bush have said that he plans to sign the bill into law.

That would be good news, and even better news if he signs it quickly. Consumers have a right to be protected from such hazardous goods, and businesses stand to gain as well. Consumer confidence in product safety desperately needs some help, especially as the nation moves toward what could be a lean holiday season.

Anyone who follows the news knows why this law is needed. Last year alone, nearly 30 million potentially hazardous toys were pulled from the nation's shelves. Many items were covered in lead paint. Others had tiny magnets that could injure a child's delicate stomach. (Read more)

On the other hand, the so-called "tort reform" groups continue to demonstrate how fundamentally out of touch they are with the American public by continuing to attack this legislation, which passed both houses of Congress virtually unanimously.   

See here