Adventures in Ethics and Crafting

There's an interesting article over at Adventures in Ethics and Science that crosses over into the craft world. Not so important for us, but more for our American crafty friends out there. Following last year's issues with China's production of children's toys containing lead, the American Government passed the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, which requires that a sample of products from each batch of products aimed at children under the age of 12 be independently tested for lead. The law in its current state, has some big implications for those who craft and sell children's products. The article runs through the costs of testing products, implications for not just crafters, but libraries and sellers of antiques. "One of a kind toy and children's clothing makers would be out of business or face $100,000 fines.

It sounds like they rushed it through to please everyone without thinking of the ramifications. It's so utterly ridiculous that I assume they'll have the common sense to change it.