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Representatives Posey, Bright Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Local Thrift Stores and Charities
Washington,
February 18, 2009
Tags:
Jobs & the Economy
Congressman Bill Posey (R-FL) was joined by Congressman Bobby Bright (D-AL) in introducing legislation to exempt certain products sold by second hand sellers and charities from over-regulation stemming from legislation passed by Congress last year.
Congressman Bill Posey (R-FL) was joined by Congressman Bobby Bright (D-AL) in introducing legislation to exempt certain products sold by second hand sellers and charities from over-regulation stemming from legislation passed by Congress last year. The Thrift Store Protection Act (H.R. 1027) temporarily exempts certain items such as children’s clothes and shoes from these overly burdensome and unintended restrictions enacted during the last Congress.
“Americans are the most generous people in the world, and we absolutely need to make sure that generosity continues unfettered,” said Congressman Posey. “Last year Congress placed very strict standards on products such as children’s toys that contain lead. And while the intent was good, this law goes far beyond toys. Our bill provides a carve-out to ensure that Americans have access to affordable second hand clothes.” “This is common sense legislation that deserves strong consideration by Congress,” Congressman Bright said. “There is no issue more important than protecting our future generation’s safety, and the Consumer Product Safety Act of 2008 passed in the last Congress was a well intentioned bill. But as we have seen in the past, legislation oftentimes has unintended consequences. The Thrift Store Protection Act would allow second-hand stores to remain a viable option during tough economic times and while the GAO further studies and makes recommendations on the future of their products. I am glad to join Congressman Posey in offering this legislation and I urge its passage.” Specifically, the Thrift Store Protection Act (H.R 1027) would exempt second-hand sellers from Public Law 110-314’s (The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008) lead requirements for a two year period in the categories of children’s clothes, textiles, shoes and books. The bill also requires the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to study the consumer safety standards of these products and recommend to Congress needed accommodations. Neighborhood thrift stores, including The Salvation Army, have expressed concern for their shoppers and services when their inventory of children’s clothing, textiles, shoes and books are swept up in this law. “Families may find it more difficult to get second-hand goods for their children during a time of economic crisis if thrift stores cease selling these products fearing non-compliance with a vague statute and potential lawsuits,” Posey said. |
