Further to my April 3rd post, Washington state Governor Chris Gregoire signed into law the toughest toy law in the United States.

The law will dramatically cut the amount of lead, cadmium and phthalates, a commonly used plasticizing chemical, allowed in children’s toys, cosmetics, jewelry, teething items and car seats made or sold in the state.

The law sets limits for:

Total lead to 90 parts per million by July 1, 2009, 40 ppm by July 1, 2010, if achievable. (Federal standards limit the lead in surface paint on toys to 600 ppm)

Total cadmium to 40 ppm by July 1, 2009.

Six specific phthalates to 1,000 ppm by July 1, 2009.

Products that apply to children’s toys; cosmetics and jewelry marketed to children under the age of 12; products used for teething babies; and car seats that are made or sold in Washington.