H.R.1767 - Awning Safety Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1767, the Awning Safety Act of 2025, directs the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to establish a mandatory consumer product safety standard for retractable awnings. This standard aims to protect against death or serious injury related to hazards associated with these awnings. The bill specifies that the CPSC must issue the final safety standard within 18 months of the Act's enactment.
Expected Effects
The primary effect will be the creation and enforcement of safety standards for retractable awnings. Manufacturers will need to comply with these standards, potentially increasing production costs. Consumers should benefit from safer awning products.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced risk of injury or death from retractable awnings.
- Increased consumer confidence in the safety of these products.
- Clearer guidelines for manufacturers regarding safety requirements.
- Potential for innovation in awning safety technology.
- Enhanced public awareness of awning-related hazards.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased costs for manufacturers to comply with new safety standards, potentially leading to higher prices for consumers.
- Possible delays in the availability of new awning products as manufacturers adjust to the new standards.
- Potential for the CPSC to overregulate, stifling innovation.
- The cost of the CPSC's regulatory activities will be borne by taxpayers.
- Possible legal challenges to the new standards.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce. By setting safety standards for consumer products like awnings, Congress is acting to protect consumers and ensure fair trade practices. The bill does not appear to infringe on any individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).