This bill aims to prohibit the sale, distribution, and manufacture of jewelry containing more than 0.03 percent cadmium by weight. It mandates that any manufacturer, distributor, or importer who discovers such jewelry must issue an immediate recall. Retail establishments are required to remove the recalled jewelry from displays within 48 hours and return all inventory to the original source within 14 business days, with the costs borne by the manufacturer, distributor, or importer. Furthermore, the recalled jewelry must be disposed of within 60 business days in a manner that prevents public access, adhering to applicable laws regarding cadmium disposal.
Violations of this bill would be classified as unlawful practices under the Consumer Fraud Act, with penalties including fines of up to $10,000 for first offenses and $20,000 for subsequent offenses. The Attorney General may also issue cease and desist orders, and violators may face punitive damages and treble damages awarded to affected parties. The bill is set to take effect on the first day of the seventh month following its enactment.