CPSIA Frustration

[BeneathTheRowanTree]

OK, I know most of us are more than frustrated (who make kids stuff) but my frustration is that I am a Canadian. My sales are 90% into the USA. So, while it is not my country making the new laws, they will affect my business drastically and I don't have a Rep or Senator or anyone to write to because it is not my country's laws.

Any action ideas for those of us equally affected but disenfranchised by location?
L

[Former_Member]

I'm not sure, but I really hope you are able to sell to the US legally! I LOVE your things (especially the playsilks and dancing ribbon thingies) and was going to ask you to sponsor a new blog of mine (I'm starting one about my in-home preschool) sometime in 2009.

[BeneathTheRowanTree]

I hope so, too, but from what I have been able to discern, I cannot sell into your country items that will break your laws.
And I have to sit here and take it!

[Former_Member]

Yeah, as a Canadian, I really feel my hands are tied too. I don't specifically make children's items. But there are a few items in my shop that could possibly be given to children because they're "cute." Am I supposed to ask every person that orders something from me if it is for a child under 12 or ????

[Former_Member]

crossing my fingers for handmade items to be okay... though I'm not going to hold my breath. :(

[BeneathTheRowanTree]

I wish I knew!
I mean, I can spin my playsilks to ladies scarves (same difference in fact) but they are intended for kids, so that would be dishonest.

[Former_Member]

Canadians, talk to your govt reps! Maybe getting them worked up on your behalf would help. I'm sure there are many Canadians who will be affected by this. I don't make or buy childrens items (yet) but I want that option. I also think it sets a dangerous precedent for other handmade industries. anyone who supports handmade anything, should support the opposition of this law.

[Former_Member]

At the moment, our gov't is a little bit paralyzed.

[Former_Member]

That sucks for Canadians. I thought it was just bad for us in the U.S.

[Dannielle]

I can't help but believe that reason and common sense will win out in the end. I have hope that the law was created with the pure intention of protecting children without the foresight to realize how it would affect small businesses who create and sell with integrity and will be put out of business by the expense of complying with the regulations.