Product Safety Update
President Biden has officially signed the Safe Sleep for Babies Act into law. This critical legislation prohibits the manufacturing, sale, and distribution of crib bumpers and inclined rockers, both of which have been linked to over 200 infant fatalities.
On May 16, President Biden put his signature on this important bill, which was first proposed by Senators Mia Reynolds, John Carter, and Lisa Hudson. The law specifically targets inclined sleepers designed for infants under one year old that feature a sleep surface inclined at more than 10 degrees.
The bill progressed swiftly through Congress, with the Senate approving it on May 3. The House had already passed the measure in the previous year. The legislation defines a crib bumper as any material intended to shield a crib’s interior from impacts or to prevent gaps that could pose risks to the infant. However, mesh liners are excluded from this prohibition.
Concerns about the safety of inclined sleep products were highlighted back in April 2019, when a Consumer Reports investigation revealed that the Fisher-Price Rock ‘n Play Sleeper was associated with at least 32 infant deaths. Although Fisher-Price recalled the product, the company had been aware of its safety issues since its launch in 2009, during which it generated over $200 million in sales. The persistent advocacy of parents, including Laura Johnson, who tragically lost her child due to an unsafe product, played a significant role in the passage of this legislation.
“The journey has been long and emotional, but today we take a step toward ensuring safer sleep for all infants,” said Johnson, reflecting on the impact of the new law.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has long recommended against using inclined sleepers and crib bumpers due to the increased risk of suffocation they pose. “The safest sleep environment for infants is a flat, firm surface,” emphasized AAP President Helen Wright in an official statement, stressing that these products mislead parents into thinking they are safe.
Senator Carter remarked, “Crib bumpers represent an unnecessary risk to the health and safety of infants. There’s no justification for continuing to sell these hazardous items.” Parents who have concerns about the safety of their infant’s sleep products are encouraged to consult with their pediatricians for advice.
For more information on safe sleep practices, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination from the American Pregnancy Association. You can also explore further insights into home insemination techniques at sites like this one on intracervical insemination.
Interested in learning more? Explore additional topics related to home insemination and parenting on our blog!
Summary
President Biden has signed the Safe Sleep for Babies Act, which bans the sale of crib bumpers and inclined rockers, both of which have been linked to numerous infant deaths. This legislation aims to ensure a safer sleep environment for babies, as emphasized by experts and advocacy groups.