National Bankruptcy Day

Here we are, on the eve of National Bankruptcy Day. Think there's an appropriate greeting card for that?

"Lead Regulation Deadline Will Ruin Small Businesses. Without urgent action by Congress, runaway rules will force manufacturers out of business, cost thousands of jobs."

And yes, Baby Friendly Beads is one of the depressing statistics. Closed and unable to reopen, because I can't afford to test my jewelry to prove that it is safe (even though it is).

I feel a bit like I did on December 31, 1999. Except I didn't really think Y2K would be the end of it all. Alas, I do believe that the CPSIA will have major negative effects. The ways for this to go awry are so many, so serious.... and yet so few people are in the loop. I hope I'm wrong, but I fear that a rude awakening is at hand. We shall see.

On a related note, the CPSC has published this guide:
Guidance on the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) for Small Businesses, Resellers, Crafters and Charities .

My favorite part? The disclaimer:
"This information was prepared by CPSC staff, has not been reviewed or approved by, and many not necessarily reflect the views of, the Commission. It may be subject to change based on Commission action." Um, yeah. Last minute information From The Authorities that may or may not be approved by the Commission itself. Nice, huh?

Actually, aside from that, the guide was fairly easy reading. A sight better than the legalese of the original law, at any rate. Not that it changes my actual situation, alas. But there are glimmers of good news in there, so it's worth a read if you're interested and want to know more about what the CPSC might be thinking. (Since it "may not necessarily reflect the views of the Commission" and all.)