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Calif. Sues Toy Firms Over Lead

State attorney general's action targets Mattel, other toy companies

By Marcia Greenwood, Newser Staff

Posted Nov 20, 2007 3:09 PM CST

(Newser) – California filed suit yesterday against Mattel, Toys R Us, and 18 other companies, accusing them of making or selling products that contain "unlawful quantities of lead," reports the LA Times. The suit, which follows major recalls of toys during the last year, aims to force manufacturers and retailers to inspect products and ensure they're lead-free, or warn consumers.

Failing that, companies would have to warn consumers about toys that contain chemicals, such as lead, known to cause cancer or birth defects. AG Jerry Brown said he expected the defendants to settle by adopting screening measures and hiring independent monitors in foreign countries. Many companies already have such measures in place.

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[Videos (1)]

The US Senate held hearings on toy safety standards this past summer. (Getty Images)

Mattel Inc., headquartered in El Segundo, Calf., is one of the companies named in a lawsuit filed by the California state attorney general accusing it of making or selling products that contain "unlawful... (Associated Press)

Fisher-Price was among the other toy companies named in the suit. Its toys also were the subject of recalls. (Associated Press)

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Calif. Sues Toy Firms Over Lead