Attorney General Gansler Cautions Consumers about Potentially Hazardous Toys
Gansler participates in Maryland PIRG’s annual press conference to
discuss toy safety

Baltimore, MD (November 25, 2008)- Maryland Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler today discussed toy safety and advised consumers to be vigilant when it comes to inspecting and purchasing toys at Maryland PIRG’s annual press conference. Maryland PIRG is a public advocacy organization that focuses on consumer issues, health concerns, transportation needs, educational needs, and citizen activism. Maryland PIRG released its 23rd annual toy safety report, which has led to corrective action on more than 130 toys over the last two decades.

“As holiday season approaches, consumers need to be aware of potential toy hazards and pay special attention to product recalls relating to toys and children’s products,” states Attorney General Gansler. “Parents should read the safety guidelines for purchasing toys for small children and be aware that there are toys currently on store shelves that pose potential safety hazards.”

In addition to discussing its annual toy safety report, Maryland PIRG and Attorney General Gansler discussed the work of the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the new federal law that allows Attorneys General to enforce certain federal consumer protection laws. The new law bans lead and phthalates in toys and children’s products, and made several voluntary standards mandatory for toys and durable nursery products.

"Congress took important steps to address the serious health risks that lead poses to children, yet consumers may still find lead-laden children’s jewelry and lead painted toys on Maryland store shelves until the protections take effect next year," states Attorney General Gansler.

The Office of the Attorney General offers a wide variety of resources to the consumer, including an easily accessible link to recalled products across the country, and consumers should check the site located at www.oag.state.md.us/Consumer/recalls/index.htm periodically for updated information. The annual toy safety report issued by Maryland PIRG may be found at www.marylandpirg.org.