New York State Publishes A Draft Bill on Seasonal and Decorative Lighting Products Containing Lead

The U.S. state of New York published draft bill SB 5675 in March 2021. It requires a warning label on seasonal and decorative lighting products sold or distributed within the state if the electrical cord casing of the product contains lead.

The definition of seasonal and decorative lighting products covers portable, plug-connected, temporary-use lighting products and accessories that have a nominal 120-volt input voltage rating. Lighting products within the scope are factory-assembled with “push-in, midget or miniature screw base lamp holders connected in series or parallel, directly across the 120-volt input”. These products may include decorative lighting such as wired holiday string lights, pre-lit artificial Christmas trees, plants, flowers or wreaths, stockings, stars, candles and light sculptures, among others.

Seasonal and decorative lighting products that contain an electrical cord casing in which lead is used shall bear a warning label with following statement:
WARNING: HANDLING THE COATED ELECTRICAL WIRE OF THIS PRODUCT MAY EXPOSE YOU TO LEAD. WASH HANDS THOROUGHLY AFTER USE.

This Bill will take effect on the ninetieth day after it becomes a law.

Any entity that violates the provision of this warning label requirement shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than USD 1,000 for each such violation.

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