Resale kids clothes may be a thing of the past

January 8, 10:26 AMSt. Louis Family & Parenting ExaminerAngela Atkinson

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Image Credit: KidsAgainStL.com

I don't know about you, but I know that I have shopped for used kids clothes on more than one occasion. Stores like Kids Again in Florissant make it so much easier for me, because they only accept and sell things in the best condition. The prices are reasonable, and the clothes are always current styles.

That said, our congress has recently passed a law which will require lead testing on all toys, clothes, and other products sold for children under the age of 13--including used kids clothes. Lead testing is extremely expensive, and most small businesses can't afford it.

The LA Times has said that the law will threaten resale shops like the Goodwill and especially kid-specific stores like Kids Again and Once Upon a Child.

While it seems sensible for the government to step in and take action against lead in toys, most parents agree that requiring testing of used clothing is one step too far--especially because it means many of their favorite retailers will be out of business as a result of this law.

The good news is that in this great country of ours, we have a voice. Help take action to amend this law. Write to your congressperson here, to your senator here, and/or send a message to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission here.

Even if you don't personally purchase resale kids clothes, consider using your voice to help others, including the small business owners who will be so signficantly affected.