I’m sure you’ve heard the latest buzz.  If not, let me sum it up for you, paraphrased from many emails that I’ve recently received from concerned readers. (By the way, thank you SO much for emailing me - I had no idea the scope and the magnitude of this issue until I heard from so many of you!)

Unless something changes, as of February 10, it will essentially become illegal to resell children’s goods.

Yes.  You read that correctly.  ILLEGAL.  Why?  The new law, which is aimed at keeping lead filled merchandise away from children, will require that anyone who sells kids toys, clothing and books, etc certify that it has been tested for both lead and phthalates - a chemical used to make plastics more pliable.   Sounds like a good idea, right?  In theory yes, except that is an extremely expensive and very time consuming endeavor meaning most of the secondhand stores in this country will be unable to follow. A business can be fined or shut down completely if they fail to follow these mandates.

Here’s a link to a LA Times story if you want to read more.

So what can parents do now if the local consignment or second hand store shuts down?  Thanks for asking…

Fortunately, Zwaggle is unaffected by this decision.  Since no money changes hands when you trade on Zwaggle - you aren’t technically buying a product from another person.   We always loved the sharing concept and now we love it even more!  It’s a win-win situation for all involved!

So regardless of your views on this new legislation, Zwaggle will continue to be here to help families save money, conserve resources and provide for your family during these tough economic times.  Come one, come all.  And make sure to tell your friends.