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. It amends the Consumer Product Safety Act to classify such products as banned hazardous products. The bill includes exceptions for commercial/industrial uses, drugs, devices, cosmetics, and food products regulated under other federal laws.
Expected Effects
The primary effect will be to restrict access to concentrated sodium nitrite for consumers, potentially reducing intentional poisonings, particularly among young people. This law will likely increase scrutiny on consumer products containing sodium nitrite. It may also lead to changes in product formulations or labeling to comply with the new regulations.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced risk of intentional poisoning, especially among youth.
- Increased consumer safety by limiting access to a hazardous substance.
- Clearer regulatory framework for products containing sodium nitrite.
- May encourage safer product formulations by manufacturers.
- Could lead to better awareness of the dangers of sodium nitrite.
Potential Disadvantages
- May inconvenience consumers who use sodium nitrite for legitimate purposes (although exceptions are carved out).
- Could increase the cost of certain products if manufacturers need to reformulate.
- May require additional enforcement resources to monitor compliance.
- Potential for a black market to develop for high-concentration sodium nitrite.
- Limited impact if the primary source of sodium nitrite poisoning is not consumer products.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) by regulating the sale of products in interstate commerce. It also aligns with the general welfare clause of the preamble, as it seeks to promote the safety and well-being of citizens, particularly the youth. There are no apparent infringements on individual liberties or rights outlined in the Constitution or its amendments.
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).