Youth Poisoning Protection Act
Summary
The Youth Poisoning Protection Act aims to ban the sale of consumer products containing a high concentration (10% or more by weight) of sodium nitrite to individuals. It amends the Consumer Product Safety Act to classify such products as banned hazardous products. The Act includes exceptions for commercial/industrial uses, drugs, devices, cosmetics, and food products regulated under other federal laws.
Expected Effects
The Act will restrict access to high concentration sodium nitrite for consumers, potentially reducing the risk of intentional or accidental poisonings, particularly among youth. It will also require manufacturers and retailers to comply with the ban, potentially impacting the availability of certain products. The ban will take effect 90 days after enactment.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced risk of intentional or accidental poisonings, especially among young people.
- Increased public safety by limiting access to a potentially dangerous substance.
- Clearer regulations regarding the sale and distribution of high concentration sodium nitrite.
- Potential decrease in healthcare costs associated with sodium nitrite poisoning incidents.
- Alignment with the government's responsibility to protect its citizens, particularly vulnerable populations.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential limitations on the availability of certain products for legitimate uses, although exceptions are included for specific industries.
- Possible increased costs for manufacturers to reformulate products or find alternative ingredients.
- Potential for a black market to emerge for high concentration sodium nitrite.
- Limited impact on suicide rates, as individuals may seek alternative methods.
- Enforcement challenges for the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to protect public health and safety. Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce, which includes the sale of consumer products. The Act does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights, such as freedom of speech or religion. Article 1, Section 8 grants Congress the power to regulate commerce. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, but consumer product safety has been an area of federal regulation.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).