United States Consumer Product Safety Commission

The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is an independent federal agency that works to protect the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with consumer products. The CPSC's primary mission is to ensure the safety of consumer products sold in the United States.

The CPSC was established in 1972 through the Consumer Product Safety Act, which granted the agency its authority and responsibilities. The CPSC operates independently from other government agencies and is led by a five-member commission, with each member appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate.

The CPSC's main activities include developing safety standards for consumer products, conducting research and investigations to identify potential hazards, enforcing product safety regulations, and providing consumer education and information. The agency works closely with manufacturers, importers, retailers, and other stakeholders to promote product safety and facilitate compliance with safety regulations.

In cases where a product poses a significant risk to public safety, the CPSC has the authority to recall or ban the product from the market, issue fines and penalties, and take legal action against violators of safety regulations. The CPSC also maintains a database called SaferProducts.gov, which allows consumers to report unsafe products and provides access to safety information and recalls.

The CPSC is funded through appropriations from Congress and operates based on its statutory authority and mandate. While it is a government agency, the CPSC is not a for-profit entity but rather a regulatory body tasked with protecting the public's safety in relation to consumer products.