Comment from Jamie Johnson

I am in complete appreciation and approval of proposal 16 CFR Parts 1219, 1220, and 1500. As a parent of a toddler and expecting an infant, the numbers attributed to fatalities and injuries described are overwhelming and tragic. Especially considering the nearly 2.2 million cribs recalled in June this year by at least seven manufactures. While the structural failures only attributed to around 30% of the deaths, this only emphasizes the need for more stringent build and safety standards in full size and non-full size cribs. I applaud the CPSC’s move to ban the “drop side” design. I agree completely with the proposed changes to Full Size Crib Standard and Non-Full Size Crib standard 1169-10. Retightening screws seems unrealistic. While parents must be held responsible for insuring the integrity of their cribs, it is not always realistic to check screws very regularly. Children are incredibly mobile and even wild in the cribs and screws will loosen. My own research on crib styles and brands were not wasted as I found a crib which was ultimately expensive but did not sacrifice quality or safety. While I was able to afford a high quality crib, I can only imagine what a less fortunate family would have to settle for and if their crib will meet the higher standards intended by this proposal. It should not take staggering statistics from the emergency room to change corporate behavior in the boardroom. This regulation will prove much more valuable for child care facilities and even motels as listed in the proposal. Such a step will provide parents the much needed solace that businesses which may obtain the cheapest items will still be held to more stringent standards. From the manufacturers’ perspective, it is far easier, and cheaper in the long run, to produce cribs whose design has been thoroughly evaluated for all kinds of possible hazards. Costs may increase and that should be expected. I support the proposal.