Member2Member - Featured Offers for FJATA Members

It’s all about the work. You select a goal, break it down into manageable, measurable pieces and begin the process of completing each task. FJATA has been making solid progress this year in responding to legislative actions both at home and abroad. The call from the government and consumer groups has been heard and is being answered by our industries represented by FJATA.

First and foremost, FJATA chaired the ASTM International standards-setting process addressing all known hazards in children’s jewelry. Participants in this multi-stakeholder process, which included consumer advocates, manufacturers, CPSC staff, testing labs, and Health Canada, evaluated available data to determine how best to protect the health of our children. FJATA commissioned independent testing to provide further scientific guidance to the subcommittee. FJATA is pleased that now the standard is complete, available for purchase on the ASTM website, and recognized by CPSC. Our next steps include educational outreach for the ASTM standard, F2923-11, and harmonizing with existing legislation, both domestic and international.

For example, FJATA responded to Health Canada’s request for comments regarding its proposed limit of 130ppm total cadmium content in children’s jewelry. After meeting with officials from Health Canada and hearing their perspectives, common ground was found. Agreeing that it is no longer a matter of the US jewelry industry versus the Canadian jewelry industry, participants saw the value of recognizing a truly global jewelry industry. Most fashion jewelry is produced in China with shipping destinations in Canada, the US, and around the world. Harmonizing standards internationally benefits both consumers and industry with less confusion and lower costs.

Back on the home front, FJATA is working with New York legislators to establish a children’s jewelry standard for the state that derives its language from the ASTM Children’s Jewelry Standard, S. 4055-A (companion bill A. 6758-A). There are at least 6 different bills before the state legislature at this time which will have an impact on the jewelry and accessories industries if passed, and only S. 4055-A (and companion) incorporates detailed scientific information into its proposed limits. There is tremendous support for the bills in the senate and the assembly, with the senate version passing unanimously on June 16th. We are confident that both bills will be well-received in the next NY session in January.

Significantly, FJATA has been receiving word that regulators are having a difficult time finding non-compliant product in the marketplace. We have heard the call of our fellow Americans and have taken the necessary steps to ensure that our products are safe, even if ingested. We need your support to continue to address legislative issues as they arise and to confront larger issues, such as European REACH regulations. Join FJATA to advocate for regulations that are safe without resulting in bans on safe products.

Thank you,

Brent Cleaveland
Executive Director
FJATA

Contact Us

FJATA
25 Sea Grass Way
North Kingstown
RI 02852
Phone: 401-667-0520
Fax: 401-267-9096
bcleaveland@fjata.org

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FJATA was formed to promote and protect the interest of suppliers and retailers offering fashion jewelry to the public. The association is a not for profit corporation, member owned and was formed in 2005. More.

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