This bill aims to prohibit the sale, distribution, or manufacture of chalk and crayon products intended for use by children under the age of six if they contain lead. It establishes that any person who knowingly sells or distributes such products will be committing an unlawful practice under the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs, or a manufacturer or distributor, must issue an immediate recall for any recalled products containing lead. Retailers are required to remove these products from display within 48 hours of receiving notice and return them to the manufacturer or distributor within 14 business days.
The bill outlines specific penalties for violations, including unlawful practices for failing to comply with recall procedures and criminal charges for manufacturers or distributors who do not issue recalls or properly dispose of recalled products. The penalties range from monetary fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense. The bill emphasizes the importance of protecting young children from lead exposure through these commonly used art supplies.