Pelosi: House Takes Critical Step Toward Better Protecting Our Children

October 9, 2007

Washington, D.C. -- Speaker Nancy Pelosi released the following statement this evening after the House passed major legislation mandating greater safety for children's products and holding irresponsible companies accountable for endangering the well-being of American consumers:

'Parents across America are justifiably concerned about the safety of toys and other products their children use every day. The legislation the New Direction Congress passed today mandating safer baby products and other consumer items, improving pool safety, and imposing stiff fines on irresponsible companies, are only the first steps toward better protecting our children.

'This fall, the New Direction Congress will act on comprehensive legislation that strengthens the Consumer Product Safety Commission's watchdog role, bans lead in children's jewelry and products, and requires tough independent testing of all toys and children's products.

'While most companies are responsible and do their best to produce safe toys, cribs and strollers, the Democratic Congress will hold to account companies that endanger America's most precious resource - our children.'