Attorneys general for Washington and 38 other states today announced that they reached a $12 million settlement with Mattel, Inc., and its subsidiary, Fisher-Price, Inc., resolving a 16-month investigation into the events that resulted in the voluntary nationwide recall of nearly 2 million toys for excessive lead paint in 2007.
“When it comes to toy safety, we're not playing games,” said Attorney General Rob McKenna. “Today’s settlement with Mattel offers important safeguards for our children's health and for our environment. But we're also creating a model of good business practices.” [AUDIO - mp3 ]
“Combined with new federal safety standards, this agreement gives us a much better chance of preventing dangerous toys from reaching store shelves – rather than hoping consumers learn of a recall,” added Assistant Attorney General Jim Sugarman.
Washington will receive $241,558 from the settlement, which was filed today in King County Superior Court. The agreement allows the state to use the money for consumer education, litigation or as a reimbursement of expenses.
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