Baby products company sues Consumer Product Safety Commission over new safety rule

A baby products manufacturer is taking on a federal regulation that they believe is overly broad and goes against President Donald Trump’s goal of reining in government agencies and commissions. The New Civil Liberties Alliance (NCLA) has filed a lawsuit against the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) over a new safety standard for infant support cushions.

The NCLA, representing Heroes Technology, argues that the CPSC is misinterpreting the term “durable” in the provision to include items that were not previously covered by the standard, such as cushions and other similar products. They claim that the CPSC had previously only included items that fit the accepted definition of “durable” as outlined by Congress, like cribs and high chairs.

Kara Rollins, Litigation Counsel at NCLA, stated that the CPSC is overstepping its authority and bypassing important procedural requirements in order to push out regulations faster. NCLA had requested a stay of the rule from the CPSC, citing it as arbitrary and ineffective. They also highlighted President Trump’s executive order directing agencies to halt new regulations pending review.

Rollins emphasized that the rule not only impacts Heroes Technology but also thousands of manufacturers and jobs in the U.S. and beyond. She stressed the importance of holding agencies accountable to the standards set out by Congress and the President.

The lawsuit comes amidst the Trump administration’s efforts to reduce the power of the administrative state through executive orders and legal challenges. One particular order requires federal agencies to evaluate regulations that may violate the Constitution, as the administration continues to prioritize cutting red tape.

Rollins and NCLA argue that infant cushions and similar products should undergo a more rigorous process with more data and fact-finding. They point to a Supreme Court decision in 2024 that overturned the Chevron doctrine, which previously gave deference to agency interpretations of regulations.

Overall, the lawsuit represents a broader pushback against government overreach and a commitment to upholding the rule of law. By challenging this regulation, Heroes Technology and NCLA are standing up for the principles of transparency, accountability, and adherence to congressional intent.