Hi guys...
I've seen a couple of threads in which people are encouraging each other to stay in business and try to find ways to comply with the law. I'm glad to see it. I did see it mentioned that this forum is negative and they were hesitant to be a part of the discussions. Please don't feel that way. People aren't trying to be negative but just stating the facts regarding the law. Many store owners and buyers have been involved with this law for a solid year.
I've been thinking about how I have been frustrated with Congress for not being willing to amend the law. I feel at times that I have been too negative. Not everyone in Congress has been unwilling to reopen the issue of the language of CPSIA. There ARE good people in Congress who want to be fair. Several amendments have been written although none passed. There were even a couple of members of Congress that objected to the language of the bill before it was made law. They saw the effect that it was going to have on small businesses and understood that it would not make children safer than they already were. There have now been quite a few letters written by members of Congress stating that they now realize that the law is so flawed that it must be changed and changed by Congress not by the CPSC. One of those amendments has been voted on (it was written by Demint). Many in Congress voted for the amendment but it was defeated. Some Congress members actually attended the rally that Rick Waldenberg organized and they stated that small businesses were doing the right thing by contesting the law. I believe it can be amended to become a workable law, although repealing and starting all over may actually be easier.
I've said this so many times (and so have others that participate in this forum)...this law has good intentions but just went too far. WE ALL want all children to be safe.
I am hoping, for all of you, that crafters won't have to do third party testing as it will put so many people out of business. I am just so hoping that changes will be made in CPSIA which will allow more freedom in crafting while still working within the law. I know it must be hard making clothing without being able to use buttons, snaps, hooks etc.
I don't have a store but do buy from etsy sellers and having a new granddaughter, hope to see etsy children's stores stay in business. I've bought some beautiful, wellmade and safe things from etsy stores for my new little girl. I sure would like to be able to continue doing that in the future.
So to sum it up, I wish you all well and am glad for positive attitudes. I am going to make sure I have a more positive outlook also. Don't give up the fight. Continue to write your Congress members and other representatives. Continue to participate in this forum. Read all you can and be as informed as possible. I'm cheering you on and doing all I can do to help in your endeavor to keep your businesses open.
Good Luck
