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Ensuring the Industry’s Voice Is Heard
When issues of importance to the jewelry manufacturing industry arise in Washington and state capitals, MJSA keeps members informed. It also develops public positions that represent the industry’s interests, and ensures that those positions are heard by legislators and government officials.
MJSA retains legislative counsel in Washington, D.C., where John Satagaj tracks federal issues. It also works closely with the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) on issues affecting all U.S. manufacturers. It is a member of NAM’s Council of Manufacturing Associations.
CPSC, Legislators Focus on Cadmium
On Jan. 10, the Associated Press (AP) reported that, in an investigation it conducted among U.S. retail outlets, twelve of 103 pieces of mainly Chinese-made children’s costume jewelry were found to contain dangerous amounts of the toxic metal-a finding that has spurred the Consumper Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and state and federal legislators to vow regulatory action. Click here for full text of MJSA alert.
CPSIA "Lead Law" Updates
Signed into law last summer, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) set new federal lead standards for children’s products, including jewelry.
• Illinois has amended its Lead Poisoning Prevention Act to include a warning label requirement—which it says is not preempted by the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA). Click here to learn more.
• Click here to read MJSA"s guide to compliance with the CPSIA, "Lowering Lead."
• Click here to read about the exemption of precious metals and gemstones from the CPSIA requirements, or download the CPSC ruling (PDF document).
Dates to Remember
• Janury 1, 2010: Amendment to Illinois’ Lead Poisoning Prevention Act takes effect, requiring warning labels on all jewelry intended for children age 12 and under. Click here for more information.
Tell MJSA
Please let the association know about issues of concern to you and about your experiences contacting and obtaining assistance from legislators and regulatory agencies. E-mail MJSA or call 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3025.
Contacting Your Legislators
Go to www.senate.gov and www.house.gov to find contact information for your legislators.
For Guidance On ...
Product safety laws and regulations: www.cpsc.gov
Imports and exporting: www.cbp.gov (Customs) and www.ita.doc.gov (International Trade Administration)
Environmental laws and regulations: www.epa.gov
Precious metal marking laws: www.jvclegal.org
Memo transactions: www.jvclegal.org