1.31.2008 10:54 AM

Feds Turn Up Heat on Mattel Over Lead Toys

More Than 50 Lawmakers Demand Toymaker Stop Selling Lead-Tainted Products

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The Mattel 3-in-1 Cradle Swing, one of many recalled toys

By Brian Clark Howard

One might think it would be a no-brainer for toy companies to go out of their way to test their products for lead contamination and to fall over themselves to pull suspect items from the shelves. It's obvious they have lost credibility and confidence with consumers.

If companies are caught distributing faulty products, they should go the extra mile to make sure things are reclaimed. That's not necessarily happening when it comes to lead paint in toys, however, as some toys are still out there, according to officials.

As the Los Angeles Times reports, more than 50 federal lawmakers are demanding that Mattel Inc. stop selling toys that contain any lead, believing the company is not doing enough to protect children and parents. The letter was released by Rep. Elijah E. Cummings (D-Md.).

Photo: This Mattel cradle swing is one of numerous toys and children's products recalled over the past year.

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