Large manufacturers and retailers say the cost of testing will not be a burden. But small businesses such as handmade-toy shops and thrift stores say the requirement would force them to spend tens of thousands of dollars to test products such as clothing, in which the threat of lead is almost nonexistent. Many thrift stores said they would be forced to stop selling children's clothing or close altogether.
The commission's two members (a third seat is vacant) voted tentatively to exempt:
- Items with lead parts that a child cannot access;
- Clothing, toys and other goods made of natural materials such as cotton and wood; and
- Electronics that are impossible to make without lead.
The commission also tentatively approved a rule that clarifies how it determines exclusions from the law.
Emphasis mine.
