President Bush on Thursday signed consumer-safety legislation that bans lead from children's toys, imposing the toughest standard in the world.
The new law prohibits lead, beyond minute levels, in products for children 12 or younger.
Lead paint was a major factor in the recall of 45 million toys and children's items last year, many from China.
Both houses of Congress approved the bill by overwhelming margins two weeks ago.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates there are about 28,000 deaths each year linked to unsafe products, including toys, in the United States.
More than 33 million people were injured last year by consumer products.
The measure also bans a chemical called phthalates that is widely used to make plastic products softer and more flexible.
It also bolsters the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
The agency took the brunt of criticism last year over the massive recalls and the government's failure to monitor toy imports before they reach store shelves.
The legislation doubles the agency's budget, to $136 million by 2014.
It also gives the agency new authority to oversee testing procedures and to penalize violators.
White House spokesman Tony Fratto said the measure will give the regulating agencies the money they need to enforce the law.
"This has become an increasingly difficult and complex job as more imports from more nations are now sold in the United States than ever before," he said.
"This bill represents the most significant improvements to product safety since Congress created the CPSC in the 1970s," said Rachel Weintraub, counsel with Consumer Federation of America.
TAINTED TOYS
To read online The Tampa Tribune's investigation of locally sold tainted toys and children's jewelry, and find helpful consumer resources, go to TBO.com, Keyword: Lead
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