We are deeply concerned about the reports of widespread importation of children’s toys that do not meet United States safety standards, in particular, toys which have too much lead paint or lead content. Consumers Union testified before the Senate Appropriations Committee last week on the need for more authority and resources to ensure the safety of imported toys. As you so well know, lead in toys can be associated with reduced mental and social development problems, and other health problems (including death) in children. As the policy statements of the American Academy of Pediatricians make so clear, the cost of excessive lead in our society runs into the tens of billions of dollars.