The week of Monday, September 01, 2008

Consumers Guaranteed Right To Hold Corporations Accountable for Hazardous Products

House Passes Consumer Product Safety Commission Bill

Consumers who have been tragically harmed by dangerous products secured their right to hold irresponsible corporations accountable, under legislation expected to pass the House of Representatives this evening.

Prior to legislation, manufacturers of dangerous cribs, flammable mattresses and toxic lead toys used Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) rules as a “get out of jail free” card to claim their products were just “safe enough.” Under the bill, wrongdoers can no longer hide behind federal rules in order to avoid being held accountable in our courts.

“Consumers who are seriously injured by something as seemingly innocent as a toy necklace have had their right to hold these corporations accountable affirmed,” said American Association for Justice President Les Weisbrod. “This bill combines improved safety regulations and the power of our civil justice system to safeguard Americans from dangerous products.”

Corporations Are Hiding Secrets That Could Kill You

Sunshine in Litigation Act Would Help Shed Light on Dangerous Products

Americans would be shocked and angered to learn that when they go to the store some of the products they purchase may be hiding dangerous secrets. When businesses settle unsafe product liability suits in which their products have harmed people, they often demand that individuals agree to keep secret, dangers uncovered through the court system. This practice is called court secrecy.

Secrecy agreements have been used to conceal the dangers of common everyday products including collapsing baby cribs, dangerous car tires, harmful prescription drugs and hazardous toys. These agreements deprive the public of important public safety information which could prevent unnecessary injuries and deaths. Federal legislation is long overdue. Court systems in 41 states have taken steps to limit court secrecy - the Sunshine in Litigation Act (S. 2449/H.R. 5884) would simply ensure that federal courts also consider public health and safety matters before approving secret settlements.

“The American public has a right to know about hazardous and defective products – especially when irresponsible businesses continue to profit from product sales at the expense of consumer safety,” said American Association for Justice President Les Weisbrod. “If we can prevent more injuries and potentially deaths from products that are known to be hazardous then we should do everything in our power to uncover life saving information.”

Past AAJ Consumer News For Families Articles

Monday, June 02, 2008
Arbitration Fairness Act Protects Americans
Lawsuits challenge new health insurer tactics to deny claims and benefits

Tuesday, May 27, 2008
VA Rule is A Victory for Veterans Rights; Removes Barriers to Legal Representation
Some therapist-patient communications not privileged, court says

Monday, May 12, 2008
Manhattan Institute’s Latest Industry-Funded Research: “Laughable”
Federal 'sunshine' bill would bring secret court documents to light

Monday, May 05, 2008
Congressional Legislation Targets Foreign Producers Who Skirt U.S. Law
Lawsuit seeks to save car title database—and protect car buyers

Monday, April 28, 2008
AAJ: U.S. Chamber’s Phony “Rankings” Serve Extreme Corporate Agenda
Predatory-lending litigation looms

Monday, April 21, 2008
AAJ Demands FDA Protect Patients Instead Of Industry Marketers
Insurers Continue To Overcharge, Underpay Policyholders, Study Finds

Monday, April 14, 2008
AAJ: FDA Warning to Glaxo Highlights Dangers of Preemption
Wachovia sued for its role in telemarketing fraud

Monday, April 07, 2008
AAJ Demands NHTSA Remove Preemption From Roof Crush Rules
Free expressioncan come at high cost for some workers