Political Action in Action

[Jester]

Bankruptcy, no. Criminal results yes. Besides, bankruptcy and business failure takes time. I'm just saying that if we spent a minute fraction of this CPSIA effort on inspecting our food, we'd save lives.

You may never be able to find these in original print form again. Books are being destroyed here, not because they are unsafe. But, because they are not tested, so the safety is unknown. And, this is just one small effect of this over reaching piece of crap legislation. What has everyone's attention is the draconian retroactive ban on untested items along with the fact that penalties under the law are strict and can include $100,000 fines and prison time, regardless of whether any child is harmed. In fact, CPSIA is more ludicrous than prohibition since Ethanol actually *does* poison and destroy more lives, including children's health (due to drinking during pregnancy, bad parenting, or underage drinking). The maximum federal penalty for making moonshine is a year in jail, and a $4000 fine. Although, in practice you get a misdemeanor slap on the wrist the first few times you are caught. But, heaven help the poor sot who resells an old version of "Kipper the Dog".

I presume you mean "criminal" in the sense of "this is criminal waste," rather than "crimes are being committed"?

See this set of guidelines, with particular attention to:

Question 19: What happens if I sell a product in violation of the CPSIA or other applicable laws?
The Commission’s response to a violation of the law varies depending upon the circumstances, including the nature of the product defect, the number of products, the severity of the risk of injury associated with the product and the type of violation. The Commission’s goal is to help you to avoid future violations and protect your customers, not to put you out of business.

So, if you're a vintage bookseller, you are selling a harmless product, in small numbers, with the only "defect" even potentially being the risk of slightly elevated lead levels, and a violation with absolutely zero intent, you are probably liable for a very small fine, even in the highly unlikely scenario that you are actually prosecuted. The chances of your business being shut down are probably nil, and the idea that you would be thrown in prison is just paranoid.

Or, you put yourself out of business in terror of being fined. Like I said. People are overreacting. Restaurants do not shut down out of fear of the health inspector. However, some people apparently lack perspective, and you appear to be one of them. Worse than prohibition? Earth to planet Kandrathe...

-Jester