I thought I would share a thought-provoking video editorial by NBC 4 Washington’s anchor Jim Vance. He has an interesting take on overzealous, feckless safety regulations and the evolution of the U.S. nanny state. As regulators, it’s our responsibility to make sure our actions address unreasonable risks, not every possible risk facing consumers. Take a look at this short piece and let me know what you think.
CPSC Breaking News & Recent Recalls
- Lea Industries Recalls Children’s Beds Due to Fall Hazard May 21, 2013
- Powell Company Recalls Anywhere Lounger Bean Bag Chairs Due to Suffocation and Strangulation Hazards May 16, 2013
- Avon Recalls Microwave Popcorn Maker Due to Burn and Fire Hazards; New Instructions Provided May 16, 2013
- Deezo Children’s Hooded Sweatshirts with Drawstrings Recalled by Zulily Due to Strangulation Hazard May 16, 2013
- Optimus Recalls Portable Electric Heaters Due to Fire Hazard May 15, 2013
As a person who also managed to survive childhood, in spite of some foolish risk-taking, I would agree with Mr. Vance’s commentary. Unreasonable risks should be regulated, but not to the point of government controlling our lives and our decisions. Good judgement and personal responsibility, both by parents and children, must be allowed.
Regulating down to the ‘least common denominator’, in lieu of exercising good judgement, doesn’t set the bar very high for Americans.