If you are planning an event in California one of the many issues you should consider is California's Proposition 65. What is this?
In 1986, Californians' passed a legislative initiative that offered them some protection from the growing environmental hazards that we all face. The legislation was the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, or as it is more commonly known, Proposition 65. Click here to view "Proposition 65 in Plain Language" as published by the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment of the California Environmental Protection Agency.
The Act required a public list of chemicals known to be toxic reproductively, to cause birth defects, or to cause cancer. As an event planner shipping materials from a variety of sources into California, you are required to comply with Proposition 65 by labeling any products containing materials that are on the list. Now without a degree in chemistry this could be tough! But the promotional products industry is very sensitized to California's requirements and products will bear a warning that they require Proposition 65 labeling. The catch is often that labeling is only done at an additional cost which is usually minimal, and can be confirmed prior to production.
However, be wary and make it a point to ask any suppliers that you are working with whether their products are compliant. That way you can ensure proper labeling or look for an alternative product.
Please remember that because a product must carry the label does not mean it is a bad or dangerous product. For instance, lead is on the list and so any lead crystal items should be labeled.
At TheMarketPro, we are committed to ensuring that the products we supply are safe and properly labeled. Please contact us for more information